USA O-40 Women's Team Eyes 2026 World Cup
The United States’ over‑40 women’s field hockey squad is set to compete in the 2026 WMH World Cup in Schiedam, Netherlands, from July 22 through August 1, bringing together a blend of veteran talent and fresh perspectives.
Savannah DeVarney, a software engineer from San Francisco and a veteran of the U.S. field hockey scene, will wear the red, white and blue once again. DeVarney first picked up a stick in the backyard of her family home in Milton, Vermont, and later stunned opponents with a game‑winning goal as a freshman, ending a decade‑long drought for her high school team.
Now employed at BILL, a financial‑technology firm that has backed her athletic ambitions, DeVarney credits the company’s supportive culture for helping her balance professional growth with training. Her wife and parents have been constant fixtures in the stands, providing the encouragement she says is essential for any master‑level competitor.
From Soccer Pitch to Hockey Field
Heather Long’s path to the national team took a different turn. After a knee injury curtailed her soccer career in seventh grade, she turned to field hockey in middle school and quickly found a new passion. Long’s most cherished moment came in 2001 when she helped her club capture the ECAC championship, a victory that cemented her love for the sport.
Now a homicide detective in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Long balances the rigors of law enforcement with a commitment to representing the United States at the Masters level. She speaks of the honor of wearing the national jersey and of the camaraderie that defines the squad.
Both athletes stress that teamwork is the cornerstone of their success. Under the guidance of head coach Denise Zelenak and assistant coach Aliki Torrence, the roster blends diverse professional backgrounds — from software engineering to criminal investigation — into a cohesive unit prepared to compete on the world stage.
A Tournament of Opportunity
The 2026 WMH World Cup will feature teams from across the globe, offering each player a chance to showcase skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. For DeVarney, Long, and their teammates, the event represents not only a competition but also a celebration of the unique opportunities field hockey has afforded them throughout their lives.
As the opening match approaches, the USA O‑40 squad remains focused on its goals: to honor their families, to represent their country with pride, and to leave a lasting impression on the international stage.