CHAPEL HILL, NC (December 12, 2021) — Some of the best names in collegiate goalkeeping traveled to Chapel Hill to participate in Nathan Thackeray’s goalkeeper combine this weekend. The Courage’s Goalkeeper Coach hosted four training sessions over a two-day period, offering a highly competitive environment in which to build and sharpen technical skills and abilities.
“It’s been fantastic to get some of the best collegiate goalkeepers from around the nation together to try and create a high-quality training environment,” Thackeray said. “The level of goalkeeping has been great to see, and I’m excited to see how these ladies progress their individual careers at the pro level and beyond.”
The combine drew several goalkeepers who have registered for the upcoming NWSL Draft, including Marisa Bova (Purdue University), Hensley Hancuff (Clemson University), Jordyn Bloomer (University of Wisconsin), Claudia Dickey (University of North Carolina), Elaina LaMacchia (University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee), Emily Johnson (University of New Mexico), and Lysianne Proulx (Syracuse University). Megan Hinz, who formerly played with NJ/NY Gotham FC, was also in attendance at the combine.
Following the first session of the combine, several players expressed their excitement about the weekend and the ability to work with Thackeray and top talent from across the nation.
“I’m super grateful for the opportunity to showcase my talents here in the goalkeeper combine, playing with some of the best goalkeepers in the nation,” said Clemson goalkeeper Hensley Hancuff. “It’s only been one day and I feel like we’re [all] best friends, it’s been so much fun so far and I’m really looking forward to the rest of the weekend.”
“I’m excited to get the opportunity to come here to North Carolina and to get to practice with Nathan,” said Syracuse goalkeeper Lysianne Proulx. “[The session] this morning was very fun, lots of energy and obviously lots of talent, so I’m excited for what the next few [sessions] have to offer.”
