Alyson Annan: Coach, Olympian, Trailblazer, set to close out 2025 Annual Convention

Oct 4, 2024 | 2024-2025, News

MANAHAWKIN, NJ – As the 2025 NFHCA Annual Convention nears, attendees are in for a treat as Alyson Annan, the acclaimed coach of the China Women’s National Team and a legendary figure in field hockey, will take to the stage as a highlight speaker. Her session, titled “Building a Winning Legacy: Lessons from Three Continents,” promises to inspire and empower coaches and players alike, providing invaluable insights drawn from her remarkable career spanning decades and continents.

A Trailblazer

Annan’s journey in sports began in an unconventional manner. Initially introduced to football through her brother, she quickly pivoted to hockey due to a lack of opportunities for girls in school football programs. What started as a necessity transformed into a lifelong passion, leading her to become one of the most decorated athletes in the history of field hockey.

Unmatched Accomplishments

Annan’s illustrious playing career includes:

  • Two Olympic Gold Medals (1996, 2000)
  • Two FIH Hockey World Cup titles (1994, 1998)
  • Two-time FIH Player of the Year

As a coach, she has replicated this success with incredible achievements, including:

  • 2024 Olympic Silver Medal with the China Women’s National Team.
  • 2023 Asian Games Gold Medal.
  • 2021 Olympic Gold Medal and 2016 Olympic Silver Medal with the Dutch Women’s Team.

Her contributions to sport were further acknowledged when she was honored as a Member of Merit by the Dutch Hockey Federation, and also appointed a Knight in the Order of Oranje Nassau in 2021, receiving the Order of Australia Medal, and making her mark as a significant figure in Australian and international sports.

A Legacy of Excellence

Annan’s approach to coaching emphasizes the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a growth mindset. Drawing lessons from her experiences across Australia, Europe, and Asia, she will share how coaches can build a winning legacy not only through their teams’ successes but also by cultivating the next generation of athletes. Her commitment to fostering talent and creating inclusive environments in sports reflects her dedication to the game and its future.

Join Us!

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most influential figures in field hockey. Annan’s session is set to be a highlight of the convention, blending her personal journey with actionable strategies for coaches and athletes. Prepare to be inspired and equipped to build your own legacy in the sport!

Early-bird pricing ends Monday, October 7! Don’t miss out, register here.

The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) is a nonprofit organization serving field hockey coaches and supporters of the game from across the United States. The mission of the organization is to stimulate the professional development of coaching leadership within the sport of field hockey. The NFHCA strives to cultivate and recognize the professional contributions of its membership and to foster and promote the growth of the sport. The NFHCA is responsible for providing a recognizable presence and voice in regard to legislation affecting the sport as well as interscholastic and intercollegiate programs.