University of North Carolina Athletics
Alum Visits Provide Highlights Of Heels' Holland Trip
June 24, 2014 | Field Hockey
The UNC field hockey team's recent trip to Holland was outstanding for many reasons, from the educational, cultural and athletic opportunities to the fact it was a lot of fun. Among the many highlights was the opportunity it provided to catch up with several former Tar Heel players.
Part of the trip involved three visits to watch games at the Rahobank Hockey World Cup, where there were five former UNC players competing (in addition to one current one, rising junior Emily Wold). Playing for the U.S. were Rachel Dawson (1993-97), Katelyn Falgowski (2007-11), Jackie Kitnzer (2007-10) and Kelsey Kolojejchick (2009-12). Representing South Africa was Illse Davids (2006-09).
Quite a few Dutch players have worn Carolina jerseys over the years, and four of them were able to catch up with the Tar Heels during the team's travels. Julie Blaisse (1986-88), Judith Jonckheer (1984-85), Evelien Spee (1987-89) and Charlotte Verstraten (2008-09) all spent time with coach Karen Shelton and the rest of the party during the team's trip.
The Tar Heels also enjoyed a visit from Galen Irwin, who is the father of a former Carolina player (Monica Irwin, 1992-94) and now lives and teaches in Leiden, where the UNC party spent the first part of its trip.
In addition to the Tar Heel field hockey ties, Shelton has roots in the country. Her mother is Dutch and she has several relatives living in Holland, some of whom she was able to visit with during the team's stay. Seeing family and far-flung Tar Heels made a far-away country seem not-so-foreign.
"Seeing so many familiar faces in Holland was wonderful," Shelton said. "Cheering for all of our National Team players was so exciting, and it was delightful to catch up with Julie, Judith, Eef and Charlotte. We always say, 'Once a Tar Heel, always a Tar Heel.' I'm so appreciative that they took the time to come and see us."
