The United States men’s O-65 side is set to take part in the 2026 Masters World Cup in Breda, Netherlands, with competition slated from August 7 through August 16.
Under the guidance of head coach Mathew Thomas and his assistant Amir Akhtar, the squad has mapped out a demanding itinerary that includes group matches versus Belgium, France and England before progressing to quarter‑finals, semifinals and the final.
Among the veterans is Mahesh Saraswat, an IT consultant from Northridge, California, who first picked up a stick at age twelve after watching elite tournaments near his home. The Masters program has revived his competitive fire, and he now helps spread the sport by organizing leagues and keeping teammates updated on developments.
Saraswat recalls his most cherished moment as the goal he scored on his debut international appearance on the iconic Tokyo Olympic pitch, a memory that still fuels his ambition on the Breda stage.
A Shared Vision
Rene Herrera, a correctional education teacher from Show Low, Arizona, discovered field hockey during a physical‑education class at the University of Arizona and quickly rose to prominence, earning the title of Man of the Match in the USA’s recent Masters encounter with the Netherlands.
Herrera’s personal soundtrack for game day is Toby Keith’s “How Do You Like Me Now,” and he lists Nottingham, United Kingdom, as a favorite travel destination, reflecting the global reach of the sport he loves.
Both Saraswat and Herrera express deep pride in representing the United States on the world stage, underscoring the growing footprint of Masters field hockey in the country and the personal fulfillment that comes from wearing the red, white and blue.
The team’s schedule features matches on August 7, 9 and 10, with the decisive knockout rounds set for August 13, 15 and 16, culminating in the championship clash on the final day.
Their shared vision extends beyond personal milestones; it is about building a sustainable pipeline that encourages new talent, fosters community engagement, and cements the USA’s place among the world’s Masters field hockey contenders.