UNC Field Hockey: Erin Matson tabbed as program’s new head coach

One legend will follow in the footsteps of another, as Erin Matson has been named the new head coach of the UNC Field Hockey program.

It looks like Erin Matson won’t be leaving Chapel Hill after all.

In a rather surprising announcement, the UNC field hockey program announced that Matson will take over as the team’s head coach. The most decorated UNC field hockey player of all time will become the program’s fifth head coach.

The University of North Carolina conducted a national search, as they look to replace the legendary Karen Shelton, the winningest coach in the sport’s history who retired in December after coaching 42 seasons at North Carolina. After the search concluded, Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham decided that Matson was the right person for the job.

"“Erin is an outstanding leader who has a deep and thorough knowledge of the game, understands the balance it takes to be a successful student and athlete, and is determined to expand and propel the winning tradition of Carolina Field Hockey. She knows how to inspire, listen, teach and win – all qualities that that will translate well to the sidelines and make her a terrific head coach. We all look forward to supporting her as she transitions and leads in this this new role.”"

Matson put together a tremendous career during her playing days, as her resume simply speaks for itself. She played on four NCAA Championship teams and five ACC Championship squads, and was a three-time recipient of the Honda Sport Award for Field Hockey, becoming just the second player ever to win that honor three times. Matson wrapped up her career as the all-time scoring leader in both ACC history as well as in NCAA Tournament play.

In the school’s official press release, Matson expressed how excited she is for this new venture of hers in Chapel Hill:

"“To say I’m excited and honored to be the head coach of the UNC field hockey program is an understatement – this is a dream come true. This program means the world to me, and I will do whatever it takes to continue the excellence that is UNC Field Hockey. I want to thank Bubba Cunningham, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and the members of the Board of Trustees for this opportunity and for believing in me. I intend to honor the University of North Carolina, Coach Shelton, and the program’s history while working to find ways to achieve new heights, side-by-side with our Carolina community.”"

Matson is set to begin her duties immediately, as her focus now turns to prepare the UNC field hockey team for the upcoming season.