Born: 1987 (Adelaide, Australia)
Hannah Nielsen (born 28 November 1987 in Adelaide, Australia) is the current head coach of the University of Michigan women’s lacrosse team. She has had a remarkable career as both a player and coach, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Nielsen began her lacrosse journey at the Brighton Lacrosse Club in Adelaide, coincidentally the same club where lacrosse legend Jen Adams honed her skills. She quickly gained recognition for her exceptional talent and soon caught the attention of college recruiters in the United States.
She accepted a scholarship offer from Northwestern University and became a key player for the Northwestern Wildcats. During her time with the Wildcats, Nielsen achieved phenomenal success, winning four national championships. Her extraordinary skills on the field earned her numerous accolades, including three-time All-American honors.
In her junior and senior seasons, Nielsen’s outstanding performance led her to be awarded two prestigious honors, the Tewaaraton Trophy and the Honda Sports Award. These awards recognized her as the best player in college lacrosse during those seasons. Nielsen’s exceptional playmaking abilities and vision on the field were evident as she broke NCAA records for career assists, assists in a season, and assists in a single game.
Not only did Nielsen excel at the collegiate level, but she also proudly represented Australia on the international stage. She was a member of the Australian U19 team in both 2003 and 2007, showcasing her talent at a young age. Additionally, Nielsen was part of the 2005 World Cup-winning senior team, solidifying her place as one of the best lacrosse players in the world.
Nielsen’s impact on the sport extends beyond her playing career. After completing her collegiate journey, she transitioned into coaching, embracing her role as the first women’s lacrosse assistant coach at the University of Colorado. Her passion for the game and her ability to inspire and mentor young athletes made her an invaluable asset to the team.
In 2020, Nielsen assumed the position of head coach at the University of Michigan. As head coach, she continues to shape and guide the team, instilling a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. Nielsen’s leadership and expertise have proven invaluable to the team’s success, and she serves as a role model for aspiring lacrosse players.
Throughout her career, Hannah Nielsen has been a trailblazer in women’s lacrosse. Her exceptional skill set, numerous accolades, and dedication to the sport have had a profound impact on the game. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to young athletes, encouraging them to strive for greatness both on and off the field.
Awards:
– Tewaaraton Trophy (Junior and Senior Seasons)
– Honda Sports Award (Junior and Senior Seasons)