Rhodes College Athletics

Laura Hurff brings an exceptional blend of experience and passion for field hockey to her role as Interim Head Coach of the Rhodes College field hockey team. As a standout player at Syracuse University, Laura made history as a member of the first women’s team to win a National Championship, achieving this landmark victory in 2015. Her collegiate career was distinguished by three NFHCA All-American honors and multiple All-ACC selections, underscoring her impact on the game and her commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

A dedicated athlete, Laura represented the U.S. Women’s National Field Hockey Team from 2018 to 2021, showcasing her skills in numerous international tournaments. She also played on the U.S. U17 and U21 teams, including a silver medal performance at the 2016 Women’s Junior Pan American Games, gaining invaluable experience and honing her competitive edge. Additionally, her versatility was highlighted through her participation on the U.S. Indoor National Team in 2021. This extensive background as a national team athlete has not only refined her technical abilities but also deepened her strategic understanding of the game, insights that she seamlessly integrates into her coaching.

Transitioning to coaching, Laura has made a significant impact as an assistant coach at both Cornell University and Stanford University. In these roles, she focused on developing athletes and fostering a competitive yet supportive environment, helping players reach their full potential. Known for her infectious energy and unwavering dedication to player development, Laura embraces a holistic coaching philosophy that emphasizes mindfulness, personal growth, and teamwork.

Laura holds a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science from Syracuse and earned her Master’s in Business Administration in 2022. As she takes on the challenge of leading the Rhodes College field hockey program, Laura is eager to inspire her athletes, cultivate their skills, and encourage them to excel both on the field and in their personal endeavors.