CHARLOTTE, N.C. - "Being a part of the Queens Field Hockey team has taught me that sport has so much more to offer than medals and recognition," says Maddie Just '28. "It has given me my best friends, unforgettable experiences, and values that I will carry with me through every chapter of my life."  

Today marks the launch of Investing in Champions, Queens Athletics' annual giving campaign. For the next week, generosity is in the spotlight, helping create the memories that are shaping Just's college years and providing the resources that have built the Field Hockey program over the past ten years.   

Head Coach Brandi Kist sees the program's story taking shape in how her players grow, on and off the field. "I see them each grow as collaborators, teammates, communicators," she says, "recognizing the impact connections make in accomplishing things and the importance of having a tribe."  

For Just, one moment in her Field Hockey story stands out — the team's first Division I win. "The rush of adrenaline and pure joy in that moment is something I will cherish forever," she says. Being part of a program still finding its footing at the DI level, she adds, has taught her to appreciate the process along the way.  

Kist sees the impact the program has on the women who have experienced it. "It is not something that anyone has told me; it is what I continue to witness," Kist says. "I see our alumni get together to celebrate life events, staying in touch even from afar. It's the number of alums that return for our alumni game. If we are on the road or at home, they are on the sidelines cheering on game day."  

Just has a clear message for the people who make all of this possible. "Generosity allows us to elevate our facilities, equipment, gear, and transportation, ultimately giving student-athletes the resources we need to succeed," she says. "Donor investment is not just an investment in our programs — it is an investment in the athletes, relationships, experiences, and future that make Queens so special."  

"Donor support demonstrates to the team they have a lot of people in their corner and invested in their experience," Kist says. "It shows them their community is bigger than they think it is."  

For the next week, you can invest in Just and every student-athlete on the Queens Field Hockey roster. With a fundraising goal of $10,000, every gift is an investment in the program still building its legacy but already changing lives along the way.  

Check out this year's challenges and progress toward the goal here. 

Investing In Champions is October 2-9, 2026. Unlock Royals Club benefits with gifts of $100 or more. For questions or information on issuing your own challenge, please reach out to Danielle Evans-Clan, director of athletics advancement, at evanscland@queens.edu.