We are thrilled to welcome Grace Pottebaum into the Longstreth Athlete Program as a Grays Brand Ambassador!
Grace is a sophomore at the University of North Carolina, majoring in Media & Journalism. Originally from Missouri, she played for Gateway FHC and John Burroughs High School before joining UNC. A field hockey player since second grade, Grace was honored as the ACC Defensive Player of the Week back in September.
Fun Field Hockey Facts About Grace:
What stick do you use and why do you choose it?I use the Grays GR10000 Jumbow Composite Field Hockey Stick because it is the perfect weight and gives me precision and control on the ball.
Do you have a grip preference? If so, which grip and why do you like it?
I like the TK Chamois Plus Grip because it gives me better management and direction of my stick.
How long have you been playing field hockey and what made you first want to start playing?
I started playing in second grade because my cousins played and we tried to find fun activities to spend time together. I loved the sport and started playing for Gateway Field Hockey Club second to twelfth grade. I also loved playing for my high school, John Burroughs School.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I listen to music with my teammates, always get texts from my mom and five siblings, and call one of my brothers who gives me a pump-up speech! He played football in college, so his pump-ups are pretty intense but he is smart and hilarious. He always makes me laugh
What's your go-to pre game meal?
I love avocado toast before games. It fills me up and provides energy for the rest of the day.
What is your go-to game day hairstyle?
I usually like to do a slick back ponytail into a braid, but sometimes switch it up to multiple braids. One teammate always does my hair, because we are superstitious about it!
Favorite pump-up song(s) to listen to before a game?
“Run This Town”, “Let's Groove”, “Cornerstone”
Describe your playing style in three words?
Fearless, Gritty, Patient
What do you like to do when you are not playing field hockey?
When I am not playing field hockey, I love spending time with my friends and family. I also enjoy pickleball, tennis, and reading a good book
Do you have any game day superstitions?
I always have my one teammate do my hair and drink a matcha latte.
What is your favorite motivational quote?
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” -Michael Jordan
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
Enjoy the small moments because it all goes by so fast. Also, when things get hard, that is when you double down and work even harder. That is when the most growth happens.
What is your favorite field hockey memory?
My favorite field hockey memory is winning the 2023 National Championship at Karen Shelton Stadium. Three of my brothers, my sister, and my mom were all present, and it was a thrilling game that went into overtime and shootouts.
