CENTRE COUNTY — Blue Lions Field Hockey Club won gold at USA Field Hockey’s National Indoor Tournament (NIT) in the U10 division. This is the first time a team from Central Pennsylvania has placed first in the NIT.
NIT is considered to be club field hockey’s national championship, with teams traveling from across the nation to Lancaster since 1990 to compete.
To qualify, teams must do well in qualifying tournaments around the country. The Blue Lions host one of these tournaments every year at the Nittany Valley Sports Centre.
Home field advantage and strong play saw the Blue Lions Field Hockey Club qualify a team from the U10, U12, U14, U16 and U19 age groups. All performed well, but none better than the U10 side.
The journey to the top began on Friday, Feb. 21, with the U10 team winning both of its opening matchups and following up the success with two more wins the next day.
It all came down to Sunday, Feb. 23, though, as the Blue Lions would face another 4-0 team for the gold medal. An explosive start gave them a 3-1 lead going into half, and with a stout defensive performance in the second, the Blue Lions won 3-2.
The Blue Lions are now the only team from the Central Pennsylvania area to win gold at NIT.
The team provides a year-round playing opportunity for athletes of all ages looking for something more than their school team. Eight different school districts were represented by the Blue Lions last season.
Spring registration can be found on their website, bluelionsfhc.com.
