Natalie Carter

My Hockey Background

For over 12 years, hockey has been the forefront of my life. Playing for various schools, clubs and representative teams has allowed me to develop not only as a player, but as a teammate and leader. From an early age, I was determined to improve my playing skills, setting up drills at home and constantly striving to challenge myself to become better.

I first began playing at primary school, where I captained my team to victory in the Milne Cup final, becoming the best U11 hockey team in my city. I then progressed to intermediate, playing for both the 2nd and 1st XI teams. During this time, I also represented Waikato at the U13 level, training and competing alongside older athletes, ultimately developing my resilience and work ethic.

My first year of high school at age 13, I made the Junior A team, winning our grade and becoming the best junior team in the greater Hamilton area. During this season, I also had the opportunity to play for the U15 Waikato 5-aside team.

I then went on to play club hockey, playing my first season in 2023 for Hamilton Old Girls, where we won the Waikato Reserve 1 grade in 2023, 2024 and placed second in 2025. By Year 12, I earned my place in the Dio 1st XI, becoming a starting striker and finishing as top goal scorer, contributing a third of the team’s goals. After just one season, I was named captain, once again leading by example on and off the field while continuing to be the top goal scorer.

As a striker, I bring more than just goals and results. I pride myself on leadership, communication and creating opportunities for my team by recognising space and delivering weighted passes. My game awareness allows me to keep the team organised, ensure players are marked and maintain positivity under pressure. A key part of my skill set is the ability to eliminate players through ball control, stick skills and breaking defensive lines, while also creating scoring opportunities for both myself and my team.

Hockey has shaped who I am today, teaching me resilience, determination and the value of teamwork. These qualities extend beyond the field, helping in all aspects of my life.

Why I want to play college field hockey in the USA

I am extremely excited about the opportunity to play hockey in the USA whilst attending college there. The vibrant sports atmosphere in America is unlike any other, something I wish to immerse myself in. Full of energy, passion and pride, it would be so special to me to take part in a hardworking, determined sports team.

However, its not just about competing, its about pushing myself to grow both as a person and an athlete, while contributing to the team environment. The opportunity to study and play hockey in the United States also means embracing a new culture, building lifelong connections, and challenging myself in ways that go beyond the field. I am motivated by my goals, driven to improve every single day, and ready to give my absolute best.

More than anything, I want to share my love for hockey, bringing positivity, effort, and heart to the team, and making a meaningful impact in every way I can. Looking at the overall aspect of school life, I will not only focus on sports but also ensure my academic standards are maintained. I thrive in a busy, scheduled life, something I have had to organise and manage due to my various leadership roles and school commitments. Therefore there is no doubt I would be able to manage both the academic and athletic pressures. In the end, I am incredibly excited by the opportunity to meet new people and build lifelong friendships. There is something truly special about being part of a high-level team environment — the shared drive, the support, and the passion — and it is something I absolutely love.

Altogether, hockey has shaped not only my athletic journey but also the person I am today. It has taught me resilience, leadership, and determination, values that I will carry with me wherever I go. I believe that continuing my career in both academics and hockey at a U.S. university will allow me to reach my full potential while also giving me the chance to contribute to something greater than myself. I am ready to embrace this challenge, give everything I have, and grow as both a student and an athlete.