Issue link: https://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1371865
39 F or the first time since 2008, the University of Iowa field hockey team advanced to the NCAA Tournament Final Four. It was a methodical three-season progression: Iowa was one of 16 teams advancing to the NCAA Tournament in 2018, improving to the Elite Eight in 2019. In the pandemic-adjusted 2021 spring season, the Hawkeyes opened postseason play with a 3-1 win over Northwestern, assuring them a spot in their 12th Final Four in program history. Before the NCAA Tournament selection, Iowa broke past Maryland for a second time this season, advancing to the Big Ten Tournament semifinals hosted in Iowa City. Iowa fell to No. 2 Michigan in the semifinals, 2-0. Iowa (12-6 overall) clinched the fourth overall seed in the NCAA Tournament aer ranking in the top four of the National Field Hockey Coaches Association poll every week of the season, including the final poll that led to the Hawkeyes earning a bye in the first round of the tournament. Aer disposing of Northwestern (which defeated the Hawkeyes twice in the regular season), it was on to the program's 12th Final Four and a date against No. 1 North Carolina. In a game full of weather delays, the Hawkeyes ended their tournament run, falling 3-0 to the Tar Heels. North Carolina went on to win the national championship with a 4-3 victory over Michigan. "I couldn't be more proud of this team, the resiliency it showed all year and our ability to get to this point is a big accomplishment," Iowa head coach Lisa Cellucci said. "is season was huge. We kept our eyes on our goals and sacrificed a lot to get to this point. ey stayed committed to the process and that makes me the proudest." e team's success was highlighted by senior Ellie Holley and junior Anthe Nijziel earning 2020 NCAA Division I All-Tournament Team honors. Holley registered three shots and an assist in the tournament while Nijziel led a solid Iowa defense the entire season to help the Hawkeyes to their 25th NCAA Tournament appearance. Nijziel was named Big Ten Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. She was joined as First Team All-Big Ten by Holley. Maddy Murphy was named to the second team and Cellucci shared Coach of the Year honors with Meredith Civico of Rutgers. Iowa opened the season with four straight victories. Aer falling to Michigan 1-0 at home March 12, the Hawkeyes rattled off five more consecutive wins. Murphy led the team with eight goals and 18 points, followed by Holley with three goals, seven assists and 13 points. Iowa's field hockey program will return to its typical fall schedule starting in August. e Hawkeyes will also return all five seniors for one more shot at a national title.