Redefining Resilience: Julia Mann’s Journey as a Deaf Collegiate Field Hockey Player

For most student-athletes, balancing academics and athletics is a challenge in itself. For Julia Mann, a collegiate field hockey player who was born deaf, the journey has demanded a greater level of resilience, determination, and belief in herself. Her story is one of grit and inspiration—a reminder that obstacles can become stepping stones toward greatness.

Growing up deaf, Julia faced hurdles that many of her peers never had to consider. Simple moments on the field—hearing a whistle blow, catching a coach’s instructions, or communicating with teammates in the middle of a game—were not simple for her. But Julia never let those challenges define her. Instead, she chose to redefine what was possible.

“People often focus on the disabilities [of others] rather than their capabilities,” Julia said. “My deafness is a part of who I am, but it does not define what I can do or who I can be.”

Photo by Brein Bowman

During her high school career, Julia was a four-year varsity starter and three-time captain. She led her team to back-to-back regional championship games and state tournament appearances, was named to multiple all-region and all-state teams, and was the Region 5C Player of the Year as a senior. Julia is now in her sophomore season at Converse University, a Division II program in Spartanburg, S.C.

On the field, Julia reads the game differently, relying on sight, anticipation, and an almost sixth sense for how plays are unfolding. She developed a communication system with her teammates built on trust and nonverbal cues. What some may have seen as a disadvantage became a strength, allowing her to process the game in a unique way and contribute to her team’s success.

Off the field, Julia has been equally impressive. Excelling in the classroom, she has proven that discipline and determination extend beyond athletics. Juggling the demands of college coursework, team practices, and the added responsibility of managing her disability, Julia has shown remarkable perseverance. Her academic success underscores a vital truth: hard work and resilience can level the playing field in every area of life.

What sets Julia apart most is her mindset. Instead of asking, “Why me?” she asks, “Why not me?” She believes that limitations exist only if you let them. By embracing her challenges, she has modeled to others—especially younger athletes—that disabilities do not define potential. In fact, they can become powerful motivators to prove what is possible. She has shown that success isn’t about having the easiest path—it’s about finding the courage to keep moving forward, no matter how tough the journey.

Julia spends time volunteering at events with the South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind in Spartanburg, S.C. and also works as a counselor for a summer day camp for deaf children hosted by VCU Health, Audiology Department in Richmond, Va.

Photo by Camryn Findley

Every time Julia steps onto the field, she carries a special message for young girls, or for any child learning to live with a disability: you are more than your circumstances.  Field hockey, like life, is not just about speed, strength, or hearing the whistle—it’s about passion, resilience, and teamwork. Julia embodies those values every time she steps onto the field.  Julia is not just playing a game – she’s changing it.