We’re thrilled to welcome the newest Longstreth Sponsored Ritual Athlete — Megan Valzonis — to the team as we kick off our Motherhood in Sport campaign!
This initiative celebrates the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women both on and off the field — and Megan embodies all of that and more.
Originally from San Diego, California, Megan graduated from the University of California with a degree in Sociology. She’s been a standout forward for the USWNT since 2021, with recent highlights including the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and the FIH Pro League.
Now in her third trimester and expecting a baby boy this summer, Megan is showing the world that motherhood and elite sport can coexist. She recently sat down with us to share her experience training through pregnancy — check out her other blogs!
We’re honored to support Megan during this incredible new chapter and proud she chose Longstreth to be part of her journey. She’s the perfect addition to our amazing team of Sponsored Athletes.
Fun Field Hockey Facts:
What stick do you use, and why do you choose it?
I use the Ultra 95. I chose the Ultra 95 because of its low bow and lightweight feel, this allows me to perform 3D skill at a fast pace, complete lifted shots with a breeze, and allows me to have shot taking variety when inside the circle. As a forward, it’s crucial that I have a stick to meet my goal scoring and elimination skill needs.
Do you have a grip preference?
If so, which grip and why do you like it? Yes! I’m very weird about my grip, LOL, but I prefer the TK Chamois, specifically in the original yellow color. I just enjoy the feel of this grip compared to other chamois in the market, and I’ve always used the original yellow, so I guess it just holds a special place in my heart. I like consistency, haha.
How long have you been playing field hockey, and what made you first want to start playing?
I have been playing field hockey since 5th grade. The field hockey presence isn’t the largest in California, but fortunately for me we had a middle school program run by Cindy Schneider. Through De Portola Middle and Rush Field Hockey Club was where my love for the game began to blossom!
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
Ask God for mercy and step out onto that field! Not too complicated over here.
What's your go-to pre-game meal?
I LOVE breakfast as a pregame meal, but not too picky about it, just conscious that I am putting the correct fuel in my body.
What is your go-to game day hairstyle?
High pony with a long loose braid!!
Favorite pump-up song(s) to listen to before a game?
Anything upbeat! It's usually a Kygo song or any music along those lines.
Describe your playing style in three words?
Efficient, on and off ball. Forward focused, always looking to goal and capitalizing on opportunities. Simple, hockey played correctly flows smoothly and is such a beautiful game, I don’t feel the need to overcomplicate.
What do you like to do when you are not playing field hockey?
Spend time with my family! Especially with our son arriving in July, family time is about to get a whole lot more intentional and special.
Do you have any game day superstitions?
Not fully a superstition, but pregame, I like to head out onto the pitch we are playing on to get a few touches in before warm-up begins. This helps me settle in to the stadium and get a good feel for the turf.
What is your favorite motivational quote?
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” - Wayne Gretzky
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
Live in the moment, appreciate the smaller moments in life, and keep shooting ;).
What is your favorite field hockey memory?
Hard to choose, especially after experiencing the Olympic Games. But I think my absolute favorite hockey memory has to be scoring against the Netherlands at Lee Valley in London.
Photo Credit: Madelenn Tabor Long
