UNC sophomore forward Ryleigh Heck was named the winner of the 2024 Honda Sport Award for field hockey on Tuesday. She is the sixth Tar Heel to win the award, after Leslie Lyness (1989), Cindy Werley (1996 and 1997), Rachel Dawson (2007), Ashley Hoffman (2018) and Heck’s head coach, Erin Matson (2019, 2020 and 2022).

“Like any award, this is a team award,” said Matson. “But Ryleigh’s commitment, drive, execution in crucial moments, and so much more have given her a spot on a very elite list. We are all so proud of Ryleigh and how she represents our program and our university.”

Heck led Carolina in scoring this season with 34 points (13 goals, eight assists). She was named first team All-ACC, ACC Tournament MVP and scored the winning penalty stroke in a shootout against Northwestern in the national championship game. The National Field Hockey Coaches Association named Heck its Division 1 National Player of the Year.

“I would like to acknowledge my teammates, coaches, and everyone in the field hockey community who supported me,” Heck said. “I want to give a big thank you to Erin, Coach [Karen] Shelton, all the coaching staff, my parents and teammates who played a huge role in my journey. Their guidance and encouragement helped me get here. This award is not just mine; it’s a result of everyone’s hard work in our field hockey program.”

As a Honda Sport Award winner, Heck is now a finalist for the Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year and the Honda Cup, which will be presented on June 24 in New York City.

 

Featured image via UNC Athletic Communications

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