We’re excited to officially welcome Annabel Skubisz, to the Longstreth Athlete Program as an OBO Sponsored Athlete!
Hailing from Houston, Texas, she earned her spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team this past year and celebrated her first international cap against New Zealand in January.
A standout at Northwestern University, some of Annabel’s 2024 fall season highlights include:
- Named to the Big Ten Players to Watch List
- Selected for the NFHCA Division I Watchlist
- Recognized as a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar
- Earned spots on both the CSC Academic All-District Team and the Academic All-American Team
Fun Facts:
What stick do you use, and why do you choose it?
I like the control it gives me with stick saves, and I like that it is equally weighted.
How long have you been playing field hockey, and what made you first want to start playing?
I have played field hockey since 6th grade, and I started goalkeeping in 7th grade. I first started playing because I had decided to quit gymnastics and wanted a new sport. We played floor hockey in intramurals (though we were told we were playing field hockey), so I went home and told my mom I wanted to sign up for field hockey. She found the only club in Houston, and the rest is history.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I enjoy listening to some dance music on game day, but I like to just be with my teammates in the lead-up to the game. It helps keep me present in the moment.
What's your go-to pre-game meal?
If it’s a morning game, I will have a bagel with butter and honey, a banana, and some protein. If it's later in the day, I still try to keep it simple, probably just chicken, rice, and a veggie or a sandwich.
What is your go-to game day hairstyle?
I switch it up between a ponytail or braids into a ponytail.
Favorite pump-up song(s) to listen to before a game?
Honestly, Becky Hill is a go-to. Afterglow is always a classic.
Describe your playing style in three words?
Composed, explosive, and communicative.
What do you like to do when you are not playing field hockey?
I like to spend time with my friends and family, explore the city I am in, watch reality TV (loving Secret Lives of Mormon Wives right now), hang out at the beach, or practice yoga.
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself to chill out a little bit and not worry over things that haven’t happened.
What is your favorite field hockey memory?
My favorite memory would be winning the National Championship in 2021. We were the underdogs and not at all expected to win. The win still brings me chills.
