Sophia Howard

Sophia Howard is a former college field hockey player from New Zealand who competed at Rutgers University from 2020 to 2024. During her time in the United States, she studied Psychology and Sport Management while playing at the highest level of college field hockey.

Growing up in New Zealand, Sophia had seen older players go on to study and play field hockey in America. Watching their journeys inspired her and made her want to experience that same path for herself.

That decision eventually led her to Rutgers University, where she was able to combine high-level sport, academics, and the experience of living abroad.

Why America?

For Sophia, the college pathway felt like a dream opportunity from the start.

_{“It was basically a dream come true — being able to play my sport at a top level, whilst studying and exploring more of the world.”}

What stood out to her most was the level of the experience: the quality of the facilities, the professionalism of the environment, and the chance to grow through both sport and education.

Coming from New Zealand, it offered something she felt was difficult to find at home.

_{“The experiences and facilities are nothing that we get in New Zealand, so it was a no brainer for me.”}

College Experience

During her time at Rutgers, Sophia experienced what it means to train, compete, and live like a college athlete in the United States.

One of the most meaningful parts of her experience was the people she met along the way. She built strong friendships, created lasting memories, and experienced a completely different way of life on the other side of the world.

“Meeting so many new people and meeting my bestest friends. The way I trained, played and was treated like a professional athlete, while also experiencing a true American college lifestyle.”

For Sophia, the college experience was about much more than just the sport itself. It was about the full lifestyle, the daily environment, and the relationships that came with it.

Personal Development

Living and competing in the United States helped Sophia grow as both an athlete and a person.

Her experience taught her resilience, challenged her to step outside her comfort zone, and helped her learn more about herself.

“I learned a lot about myself — how to be resilient, strong, and to just enjoy life and take the leap, to challenge myself more.”

Her time in America also broadened her outlook on life and influenced the direction she wants to take in the future.

“It definitely broadened my ideals of what and how I want to live my life. It has made me want to travel more and made me realise I want to work in sports and help younger generations reach their potential.”

Why Sophia Helps Players

After her own experience, Sophia knew she wanted to help other players discover the same opportunity.

She believes studying and playing sport in the United States can be life-changing, and wants other young athletes to experience the same growth, friendships, and opportunities that she had.

“I know it was the best thing I ever did, and I want other players to have the same experience.”

Why She Works with Plus31 Sports

Sophia sees Plus31 Sports as a company that genuinely puts players first and creates a welcoming path for athletes who are trying to navigate the recruiting process.

She values the way Plus31 combines structure, professionalism, and a personal approach.

“It is a great company and I know that our beliefs align in creating the best experiences for players wanting to go to the United States. The structure that you have created makes it so easy and welcoming for potential players who are navigating the tricky world of recruiting.”

That shared vision is what makes her excited to be part of the Plus31 Partner Network.

Advice for Players

Sophia’s advice to any player who is unsure about going to the United States is simple and direct:

“Do it! You won’t regret it. What you will regret is not doing it.”

For her, the experience is too valuable to pass up. The growth, the memories, the friendships, and the opportunities make it a journey worth taking.

Interested in the U.S. college pathway?

If you are interested in studying and playing field hockey in the United States, you can get in touch with Sophia or the Plus31 Sports team to explore your options.

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