
UNC field hockey head coach Erin Matson has been named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Sports” List for 2025, honoring young stars around the world who are “fearlessly leading sports into the future,” according to the magazine.
“Honored to be alongside such inspirational barrier breakers,” Matson said on social media. “Proud to represent Carolina and UNC field hockey.”
Matson is just 24 years old, yet has already cemented herself as one of the top figures in the history of Carolina athletics. Matson won four national championships in five seasons as a player, also taking home multiple ACC Offensive Player of the Year and Honda Award honors during her time in Chapel Hill. After graduating, Matson was named the program’s head coach following the retirement of Karen Shelton. Matson won another national championship in her first season leading the team and reached the national semifinals in her second.
Other names on the Forbes list include Boston Celtics star and NBA champion Jayson Tatum, WNBA Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark and San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. The list was curated a panel of judges which included Olympic skiing legend Lindsey Vonn.
For a full look at the list, click here.
Featured image via UNC Field Hockey on Twitter
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