by, Ceci Cowart
As applications open for the 2026-27 Erin Matson Internship, it's the perfect time to share what the role is really like—and what makes working with Longstreth such a rewarding experience.
When people hear "journalism internship," they often picture endless writing assignments. While writing is certainly a major part of the internship, it's probably not the kind of writing you expect. Rather than completing school-style assignments, I had the freedom to choose the topics and angles that interested me most. My weekly blog posts were entirely my own, and even the Player of the Week features allowed me to highlight each athlete's story in a unique way. At first, it was challenging to capture what made every player special. But as the season went on, learning about each athlete's strengths, personality, and journey became one of my favorite parts of the job.
Writing a weekly blog also allowed me to reflect on my own experience with field hockey. As athletes, we're constantly looking ahead to the next practice, tournament, or game, rarely taking the time to appreciate how much the sport has shaped us. Through my blog, I was able to step back and recognize the impact field hockey has had on my life both on and off the field. Whether I was writing about my final high school season, the recruiting process, or coaching my younger sisters, each story reminded me why I fell in love with the sport in the first place.
Beyond writing, one of the most meaningful parts of the internship was seeing women lead in so many different ways. Throughout the year, I worked alongside passionate professionals who are dedicated to growing the game at every level. Whether they're organizing clinics, creating marketing campaigns, supporting athletes, or helping Team USA succeed on the international stage, every member of the Longstreth team shares the same commitment to making field hockey better. Watching that passion in action has inspired me as I pursue my own career in sports marketing.
Overall, being the Erin Matson Intern has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has helped me grow as both a writer and a leader. If you love sports, enjoy telling stories, and are willing to work hard, I couldn't recommend this opportunity more. It's an experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and deepen your appreciation for the game in ways you never expected.
