Coach Butz-Stavin’s Legacy: 50 Years & 1,100 Wins
A Half Century of Impact
NFHCA Hall of Fame Coach Sue Butz-Stavin continues to solidify her status as a legend in American field hockey, and the winningest field hockey coach in U.S. history. Now in her 50th year of coaching (leading the Emmaus High School program in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, for 46 of them) she recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone — her 1,100th career win. With 15 state titles and 36 consecutive district championships since 1989, Butz-Stavin’s impact stretches far beyond the Lehigh Valley and deep into the heart of the sport itself. Her 2025 squad, currently 17-1 on the season, continues to uphold the Green Hornets’ tradition of excellence under her direction.
For five decades, Coach Butz-Stavin has been the driving force behind one of the most successful high school athletic programs in the nation. Her leadership has shaped generations of student-athletes, instilling in them not only skill but also character, discipline, and resilience. She remains as dedicated and passionate as ever, emphasizing the balance between athletic achievement and personal growth.
Coaching the Whole Athlete
Reflecting on her journey, Butz-Stavin shared, “It’s been a wonderful experience to share the passion of the sport, to be an athlete, to give these girls some guidance for life skills, and to watch the enjoyment of them learning — learning the game but also learning life skills as they go through their journey as high school players. Some will continue, and others will carry those lessons into their professional lives as they move forward.” Her words capture the essence of her philosophy: coaching is about far more than winning — it’s about developing well-rounded individuals who take the lessons of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance into every part of their lives.
From her early days inspired by her mother, Lucy Henry Butz, a former college player and official, to her own start as a player and young coach, Butz-Stavin has lived a life woven tightly with the fabric of the game. Over the years, she has brought that deep-rooted knowledge and love of the sport to countless athletes who have donned the Emmaus green and gold.
When asked about what continues to drive her after half a century on the sidelines, Butz-Stavin said, “We just try to grow the sport and share our passion. Find good people. It takes a lot of sacrifice, dedication, and appreciation for the youth and what they bring to the game.” Her commitment to nurturing both the sport and its players has made her an icon — a coach whose legacy is defined as much by mentorship as by milestones. One thousand one hundred wins, 50 years of leadership, and decades of championships tell only part of the story. Sue Butz-Stavin’s enduring influence continues to inspire new generations.