Breaking Boundaries: How Field Hockey Changed My Life
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by Giuseppe Villavechia
For one Houston-based teen, breaking down boundaries became the norm when he found field hockey. Giuseppe Villavechia, the first boy to play for Houston Velocity Field Hockey club, shares his story how field hockey has impacted his view on life, connection, and hard work.
As I was saying, I will start by saying how field hockey changed my life.
It all began with my older sister, Hallie. She started playing field hockey when she was in seventh grade in middle school. She stuck with it for seven years and became one of the main goalkeepers on her team. One day, she looked at me and said, "You should try it." That moment led to something I never expected. She gave me the chance to try something new, and I'm glad she did.
In September 2021, during my freshman year of high school, I joined Houston Velocity Field Hockey. I was 14 years old at the time. My sister and coach encouraged me to join—and they even let me join for free. I thought it would be a good idea, so I said yes. I didn't know what to expect, but I quickly found out that even though I was the only guy, I was welcomed in by all the girls. I felt nervous at first, but then I realized—I belonged.
Field hockey truly changed my life. I became the first male player to ever be part of Houston Velocity. That was a big deal to me. I didn't let it hold me back, in fact, I used it as motivation. I worked hard, played during scrimmages, and took on many different positions. I always tried to give my best effort.
There's one memory I'll never forget. It was before practice at the Kinkaid School. I was jogging around the track, and I ran faster than everyone else. My coach called out, "Wait for your team, Giuseppe!" and I shouted back, "Why? I love going faster!" But I understood. Being on a team means supporting one another. So I stopped, turned around, and waited for them. That moment taught me an important lesson: being a leader means being patient and staying with your team.
Even though field hockey is mostly a girl's and women’s sport in the United States, I never let that stop me. In college, the NCAA only offers field hockey to women. But my team, Houston Velocity, is working hard to spread the game to boys and young men, especially to kids with learning differences, like the students at Gateway Academy. I'm proud to be part of that movement.
By joining the team, I found more than just a sport—I found a community of strong, kind teammates. They welcomed me, supported me, and helped me grow. Field hockey gave me a place to relieve stress, be active, and connect with others. I learned how to communicate, stay calm, and push myself every day. It taught me that practice, teamwork, and effort are what really matter.
I've gotten better at running, jogging, blocking, and hitting the ball. I pass to my teammates, listen to my coach, and always keep a positive attitude. I show good sportsmanship and try to lead by example. Every practice is a chance to grow.
Some teens get rid of their stress by vaping, partying, or doing risky things. But for me, I found something healthier—field hockey. I don't need to run from my problems. I just run with my stick and my team beside me. It helps me feel free. It helps me feel strong. And most of all, it makes me happy.
Once you start playing field hockey, you simply can't stop. Field hockey changed my life. And I'm proud of that.
