HARRISONBURG, Va. – Director of Athletics Carrie S. Bert has announced the hiring of Sydney Metz as the Royals Head Field Hockey Coach.

"Throughout the search process, Coach Metz displayed a commitment and drive for the re-building of the EMU Field Hockey team," Bert said. "During her time as assistant coach in the Fall 2024 season, Coach Metz supported many aspects of program administration."

"I am incredibly grateful to the search committee and Athletic Director Carrie Bert for entrusting me with this role and allowing me to continue working with this team while doing something I truly love," Metz said. "I aim to instill a culture built on hard work, effort, and enthusiasm while ensuring that our athletes enjoy the sport and grow both on and off the field."

Metz was named the assistant field hockey coach in September, after EMU received a Tara VanDerveer Fund for the Advancement of Women in Coaching Grant from the Women's Sports Foundation®. When the head coach position opened this offseason, Metz said she had to jump at the chance to establish EMU field hockey as a strong competitor in the ODAC.

I am honored and excited to be named the Head Field Hockey Coach at Eastern Mennonite University," Metz said. "As a former player in the ODAC, I am thrilled to continue contributing to such a highly competitive conference and to have the opportunity to lead this program. My goal is to reestablish EMU Field Hockey as a competitive and dynamic team while fostering a strong culture of dedication, energy, and passion for the game."

Metz comes to EMU after a five-year career at fellow ODAC school, the University of Lynchburg. While at Lynchburg, she saw action in 42 games, netting eight goals and adding two assists. She also was an intern for the Lynchburg Hornets Sports Network, where she provided filming on gamedays, did postgame interviews and called play-by-play of home events. She graduated in December, 2024 from Lynchburg with a BA in Sports Management.

"Playing at the highly competitive University of Lynchburg, she brings a champion's mindset to our program while eagerly sharing her love of the game," Bert explained. "She began coaching at a young age and has worked with many skill levels. Her respect for the strong history of EMU Field Hockey is evident as is her desire to impact young women through collegiate athletics and the game of Field Hockey."

During the 2024 season, Metz had the chance to coach under interim head coach, and EMU Hall of Honor member, Sandy Brownscombe, who came in to lead the Royals for the final five games of the season.

"EMU Field Hockey has a rich history of championships and excellence, and I look forward to building upon that legacy," Metz said. "Having had the privilege of working alongside EMU legend Sandy Brownscombe, I have heard firsthand the incredible stories of the great athletes who have been part of this program. It is an honor to step into this role, and I am eager to help shape the future of EMU Field Hockey."

She began her duties as head coach on March 1.

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