Aug. 15, 2012

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- - After completing the Junior National Camp at the University of Massachusetts in July, Becky Stiles was chosen to be part of the U21 (Under 21) Junior National Field Hockey Squad.  The camp consisted of 100 athletes; roughly two dozen were selected for the U19 squad and 30 for the U21 squad.

"Becky had an excellent freshman year at Michigan State and has been working hard on and off the field,” said head coach Helen Knull.  “I am very proud of her accomplishment.”

As part of the U21 squad Stiles will head to the University of Maryland from August 16-22.  The camp in August will consist of training and games against Penn State, Maryland, and The University of Virginia. 

“During the camp in July we trained three times a day,” said Stiles.  “The camp was not only physically challenging, but it was also mentally challenging.  I had to be focused every session and ready to compete.  Since this camp was a selection for the U21 squad, I needed to be tuned in 100% of the time. 

“I am very excited for this opportunity.  It is an awesome experience to get to train at such a high level.  The players and coaches around push me to play harder and smarter.  I’m looking forward to bringing back all that I have learned from the camp to MSU.”

Following the completion of this camp, 18 players will be selected to be part of the U21 National Team.  The selected will compete in the Junior Pan American Championship in Guadalajara, Mexico, September 8-24.  Stiles goal is to compete in the Junior Pan Am games and be part of the Junior World Cup in 2013.