WEST HAVEN, Conn. – New Haven Director of Athletics Devin Crosby announced today that Cheryl Canada has been hired as the third head coach in New Haven Field Hockey program history.
"Cheryl brings a balance of confidence, resilience, and empathy shaped by a Hall of Fame playing career and collegiate coaching success. She'll help our student-athletes become the best versions of themselves, which aligns directly with our value of The Human Good. We are excited to welcome Cheryl, her husband Zac, and their daughter Charlotte to the Blue and Gold," Crosby said.
"I am incredibly honored and thrilled to be named the next Head Field Hockey Coach at the University of New Haven. I want to thank Athletic Director Devin Crosby, President Frederiksen, Deputy Director of Athletics Becky Clark and the search committee for entrusting me with the future of this program. There is an undeniable momentum at New Haven right now. The university's bold transition into Division I and the NEC presents a unique and exciting opportunity to build a championship-caliber foundation from the ground up. I cannot wait to get on the blue turf, connect with our student-athletes, alumni, and establish a relentless, competitive culture that the Charger community will be incredibly proud of. My immediate focus will be on building a competitive, selfless culture and empowering our athletes to reach their absolute highest potential," Canada said.
Canada's extensive coaching career includes her tenure as the Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Quinnipiac University, where she played a pivotal role in developing the NCAA Division I field hockey program. During her time at Quinnipiac, Canada was instrumental in leading the team to championship seasons, sharpening athletes' fundamental skills, and enhancing teamwork both on and off the field. Her responsibilities also included orchestrating recruiting efforts, managing compliance logs, and organizing fundraising events.
In addition to her collegiate coaching experience, Canada has made a significant impact at the high school level as an assistant coach at North Branford High School. Under her guidance, the team achieved remarkable success, securing three Class S State Championships and three Shoreline Conference Championships. Her contributions to the team included film breakdown, team film sessions, scouting reports, and implementing strategies that led to state championship victories.
Outside of her coaching roles at educational institutions, Canada founded CCFH LLC, a private field hockey company, where she developed a comprehensive program focusing on skill development and providing a safe environment for athletes to thrive. Through CCFH, Canada has coordinated a summer league, hosted seasonal clinics, and designed practice plans tailored to the goals of aspiring field hockey athletes.
Canada's professional accomplishments have been recognized with two Hall of Fame inductions, multiple championship wins, and her involvement in mentoring student-athletes to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Her leadership extends to organizing events for the USA Field Hockey Association and contributing to community service efforts.
