The Pack coach Rebecca Newcomer discusses her inspiration for revitalizing field hockey
HAWLEY, Pa. — Growing up playing and excelling at field hockey throughout her years at Wallenpaupack Area School District, Rebecca Newcomer went on to attend Lock Haven University. There, she continued playing the sport, and helped transition the program from NCAA Division ll to Division l. 鈥淭his was something huge that the team and our coach wanted to accomplish,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t was an amazing playing experience. 鈥�
Graduating with a doctorate in Physical Therapy, Rebecca began practicing in 2009. When she and her family moved back to the area about two years ago, her field hockey legacy shortly followed. Recognized by a mom who remembered her talent, she explained how there was certainly an interest for introducing the sport to children at a younger age.
Charged with this exciting opportunity, Rebecca, with a dedicated group of volunteers, created The Pack, a youth field hockey program open to children in Wayne and Pike counties, specifically designed to accommodate busy schedules and promote a healthy learning environment. They hosted their first round of clinics last spring of 2023, where one night a week, over four weeks, participants from 2nd-8th grade learned fundamentals of the game and developed necessary skills in a supportive environment.
鈥淥ur mission is to build confidence in these young players,鈥� Rebecca says. 鈥淲e want them to grow into the sport without too much pressure so they can learn the game and start loving the game while creating lasting memories and relationships.鈥�
Continuing into the summer focusing on positioning, scrimmages and small games, The Pack then partnered with Delaware Valley School District to begin a Fall League, allowing teams to gain experience playing different schools. They started off the new year with an indoor, 鈥淔rosty Sticks鈥� winter clinic, and The Pack is excited to announce even more events in store for this year!
Rebecca says more than anything, The Pack is meant to give players the confidence boost they need to feel comfortable playing on the field. 鈥淔or some participants, this is the first time they are even holding a stick. We want to promote positivity and learning. We love to see their smiles when they have a great pass, and it starts to click.鈥�
On June 22nd, The Pack is hosting a Meet and Greet on the WAHS turf, welcoming children from 1st 鈥� 8th grade to come out, learn about the program, play some field hockey, and have a lot of fun! They can also obtain information on this year鈥檚 Fall League, set to begin in August with a Play Day to follow in October.
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