Our Coaching Philosophy and Culture
Hammers Field Hockey believes in equal opportunity for each athlete to develop and play to the goals they set for themselves. We coach and teach players to be well-prepared for competition and to have fun enjoying their passion for the sport. Our culture is rooted in respect for all both on and off the courts and field. We believe in promoting the benefits of youth sports to carry over into all areas of our athletes' lives.
Rec Coaches
Julie Graham
Rec Commissioner
Julie has been an active member of the Hammers family for years as a coach and is joining the Spring 2026 season as our Recreation Commissioner. Julie brings her love of field hockey to the Hammers family she was a part of with both her daughters for over 10 years. She also officiates high school games as a USADH‑certified umpire, which helps her provide valuable guidance to new players. Coming from the recreational side of Hammers, she’s excited to bring back a competitive edge to help elevate the overall experience and better prepare players for the next steps in their field hockey careers. Her favorite memories of Field Hockey are the teams that feel like family, the ability to rise to challenges that otherwise feel impossible and realizing that you are part of something that is greater than yourself.
Kate Feeney
Head Rec Coach
Kate has taken on a new role with Hammers this past fall. As our Recreation Coordinator, Kate can be found at practices hopping from team to team, making sure everything runs smoothly and answering questions from both parents and coaches. Kate has been the assistant Field Hockey coach at LCHS for the past 3 seasons and served as a coach with Hammers in prior years. Kate works closely with our teen officials to make sure our games stay safe, fair, and within the rules. One key feature Kate introduced is having the referees share a rule with the parent sideline each weekend, helping parents understand the game as their kids learn the sport.
Matt Bartel
Coach and Field Liaison
Matt has been part of the Hammers for over ten years. He coached his daughter throughout her time at Potomac Field Hockey and has remained a crucial part of our team. Matt can be found coaching teams in both 5/6 and 7/8 to keep busy and continue his love for coaching and field hockey. He has also served as a field liaison, and you can usually find him under the Hammers tent in a bright orange shirt, ready to help whenever something comes up on game days.
Lisa McLaughlin & Sandi Carley
5/6 coaches
We have been friends for 12 years and have coached together for the past four seasons. Our daughters started playing in 5th grade and look forward to each season. We have enjoyed watching our current and past players progress as players and look to seeing all of them on the fields each week!
