About

About the Club

Although field hockey during the last two decades has dramatically grown in popularity in Northern Virginia, a club team has never been developed in Alexandria, VA. Field hockey players fill high school rosters across the city, and--in the past--if they pursued developing their skills with club teams, they have had to travel beyond the city's limits to other areas in Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. There have been many outstanding athletes from Alexandria who have continued their field hockey careers after high school in collegiate Division I, II, and III programs.

Recognizing the wide appeal and love of the sport among Alexandria residents, with a desire to keep young girls involved in team sports, AVA Magic was formed, led by one of the most decorated field hockey players in Alexandria, Philomena Fitzgerald. What makes AVA Magic Field Hockey Club truly special is the dynamic father-and-daughter team behind it, who are passionate about promoting the sport and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all players.

AVA Magic's vision is to provide opportunities for girls in Alexandria, VA to learn and play the game of field hockey in a safe, fun, and supportive environment.

OUR MISSION:

AVA Magic is driven to develop young athletes into becoming the best versions of themselves, emphasizing teamwork and sportsmanship, fostering community, building self-empowerment, and embracing leadership and dedication. AVA Magic goes beyond merely developing exceptional players. We seek to inspire our athletes to achieve their goals both on and off the field.

WHAT SETS US APART:

Family-First Approach: As a father and daughter team, we understand the importance of family support and a nurturing environment. We strive to create a club where players and their families feel welcomed, supported, and valued.
Player-Centric Development: We believe in individualized attention and tailored training programs. Our coaches will work closely with each player to identify their strengths, improve their skills, and help them reach their full potential.
Comprehensive Skill Development: Our training sessions cover important aspects of field hockey, including technical skills, tactical understanding, physical fitness, and mental resilience. We strive to develop well-rounded players who excel in all facets of the game.
Building Lasting Relationships: We value the relationships formed within our club. From players and coaches to parents and supporters, we encourage a strong sense of camaraderie and lifelong friendships.

JOIN US:

If you have any questions or would like to express your interest in having your child join our club, please contact us at: avamagicfh@gmail.com.

We are more than happy to provide further information and address any queries you may have.

Our club looks forward to embark on this journey with you and your athlete, and we hope that our efforts will leave a lasting, positive imprint and impact on the young athletes of Alexandria and its neighboring cities!

Meet the Program and Coaching Director

Coach Philomena (Phil) Fitzgerald

Coach Phil is a native of Alexandria and began her field hockey career in middle school with the Alexandria Summer Field Hockey League. She played for T.C. Williams High School (now Alexandria City High School) and captained the team as a senior, leading the team to a district championship as well as a run at states. She finished her high school career as the Patriot District Player of the Year, first team all-conference, first team all-region, first team all-state, and an All-Met first team selection for field hockey. She also was the Female Athlete of the Year at T.C. Williams High School, a member of the indoor track team, and a captain of the soccer team her senior year, which also made a run at states. She has also been recently inducted to the Alexandria City High School's Athletic Hall of Fame, joining other legendary former professional athletes, Olympians, and famous alumni.

Coach Phil played Division I field hockey at The College of the Holy Cross. She was a three year starter and captained the team her senior year, earning a spot on the Patriot League All-Tournament team. She graduated in 2020 with a degree in Economics and a minor in Dance an Africana Studies concentration. She now works in Old Town Alexandria.

Currently, Coach Phil is an assistant coach for Alexandria City High School’s Varsity field hockey team. She hopes to spread her love and knowledge of the game across Northern Virginia and especially in her hometown of Alexandria.

Recently, the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce named Coach Phil as one of Alexandria's "40 Under Forty" honorees in 2023, highlighting the city's young and dynamic leaders!

Coach Phil will coach one of the club's u12 teams and the u16 (8th-9th grade) team in fall 2023.