Passmore Names Squad to Compete in Upcoming Ireland Series

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach David Passmore has named the 24-athlete squad that will compete in the Cathy Bessant International Series against No. 11 Ireland. The series will feature two International Hockey Federation (FIH) sanctioned matches on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8, both starting at 10:00 a.m. ET.

“These matches against Ireland are critical in our preparation for the Pan American Cup,” commented Passmore. “They will provide the athletes the opportunity to compete against a higher-ranked opponent, while also allowing the staff to assess performances, the integration of newer and collegiate athletes into different formations and positions, and measure our progress in these important weeks ahead.”

After some recent retirements, this competing group of 24 athletes is a mix of veterans - led by eight Olympians - and emerging talent. Five named athletes made their debuts in January in the New Zealand Series, while Reese D’Ariano (5)(West Chester, Pa.) debuted in February at the Nations Cup. Claire Danahy (Chelmsford, Mas.) was added to the USWNT full-time following the trial in April. For each sanctioned match the competing squad will be narrowed to 18 athletes.