Éléonore Graux

My Hockey Background

I started playing hockey at Royal Wellington when I was five years old. I later joined Waterloo Ducks, where I have consistently played in the club's top teams and competed at Belgium's highest youth level.

In my first U14 season, we became Belgian outdoor champions and finished third at the EHL. The following season, we won the Belgian outdoor and indoor championships and finished second at the EHL. I was also selected for the regional team in both U14 seasons.

During my first U16 season, Waterloo Ducks won both the Belgian outdoor and indoor national titles, and I was selected for the Belgian U15 national team. In my second U16 season, we became Belgian indoor champions and outdoor vice-champions, while I represented the Belgian U16 national team.

At fifteen, I moved to New Zealand for six months. I played for Takapuna Grammar School's 1st XI, competed in tournaments and trained with the ECB P1 women's team. Living independently on the other side of the world made me more responsible, disciplined and open-minded, while also giving me a different perspective on hockey.

After returning to Belgium, I joined Waterloo Ducks U19. We became Belgian outdoor national champions and won the EHCO European tournament. These experiences have taught me resilience, teamwork, perseverance and the importance of giving everything for the team.

My Hockey Game

I am a versatile player who has experience across the field, with defender as my primary position. My greatest strengths are my competitive mindset, game vision, speed and technical ability. I enjoy carrying the ball forward at pace, creating momentum and making quick decisions under pressure.

Defensively, I bring controlled aggression and high intensity. I put constant pressure on opponents, compete for every ball, recover quickly and take pride in winning one-on-one duels. I am highly coachable, actively seek feedback and always put the team's success first.

Why I Want to Play College Field Hockey

Studying and playing at an American university has always been a dream of mine. I want to combine high-level academics with high-level field hockey in a competitive environment where everyone gives one hundred percent.

I am passionate about engineering and science and want to join a university where I can grow as both a student and an athlete. I hope to contribute determination, a strong work ethic and a team-first mentality while embracing new challenges, meeting new people and continuing to step outside my comfort zone.