West Bridgewater athletic director Jenn Hammel woke up before sunrise to stream international field hockey for one week in the middle of January. The reason? Her daughter, Ally Hammel, a former field hockey star, competed with the United States Women’s National Team in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier in Ranchi, India, to secure a spot in the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
Ally, a 27-year-old defender, fulfilled a lifelong dream by helping her team qualify for the Olympics with a 2-1 win over Japan in the semifinals. Jenn, filled with pride and emotion, watched every game, no matter the early hours, to support her daughter.
Ally’s journey to the Olympics was not easy. Starting her athletic career in ice hockey, she quickly realized her passion for field hockey in 7th grade. Despite the challenges of pursuing a career beyond college, Ally’s determination and talent led her to the USWNT. Her hard work paid off as she earned her first international cap in 2020 and has since become a key player on the team.
Representing Massachusetts and New England, Ally is proud to promote the growth of field hockey in the region. Qualifying for the Olympics was a monumental achievement for her and her teammates, who have dedicated themselves to rigorous training and preparation.
Although the USWNT fell short in the final of the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier, their top-three finish secured their spot in the Olympics. Ally and her teammates are now focused on the upcoming games in July, where they will compete against top teams from around the world.
For Ally, the journey to the Olympics has been a rollercoaster of emotions, hard work, and dedication. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the fulfillment of dreams.