USA Women's O-60 Squad Eyes 2026 World Cup
The United States’ Women’s O‑60 field hockey team is gearing up for the 2026 World Masters Hockey (WMH) World Cup, scheduled to take place in Brasschaat, Belgium, from August 7 through August 16. The tournament will bring together veteran players from across the country who continue to compete at the highest level of Masters sport.
Liz Ferrara, a former Rutgers University goalkeeper who now teaches in New Jersey, traces her love for the game back to the Collingswood School District, where she first picked up a stick. She credits early mentors such as Bea Markwick and Sandy Pope‑Ritter, and her wife Toni Racanelli, for providing the support that kept her competitive spirit alive.
Christine Couteau, originally from France, began playing at age three under the guidance of her mother, a pioneer in women’s hockey in her homeland. Today she gives back by coaching youth programs, serving as an umpire for 25 years, and sitting on the NFHS field hockey rules committee, while also relying on the steady encouragement of her husband and coaching staff.
Kelly Setser, a midfielder and forward from Louisville, Kentucky, joined the Masters ranks thanks to her sister Val and the lifelong friendships forged through the sport. As an executive assistant, she balances a demanding career with a passion for representing the United States on the international stage.
Head coach Janelle Benner and assistant coach Madison Finn guide the squad with a blend of tactical acumen and personal connection, fostering an environment where camaraderie thrives alongside competition.
The team’s schedule features matches against Australia, Chile, the Netherlands, and South Africa, with quarter‑final play set for August 13 and the championship match slated for August 16. Each game represents an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent within the U.S. Masters program.
Legacy, Joy, and the Road Ahead
For many of these athletes, the journey to the World Cup is about more than medals; it is about sharing experiences, mentoring younger players, and celebrating the joy that first drew them to the pitch. Liz Ferrara advises newcomers to Masters not to doubt themselves, reminding them to embrace the game’s camaraderie and the chance to wear the Stars and Stripes on a global stage.