EVENT INFO
What to expect
CLINIC SCHEDULE
8:30 – 9:00 AM
Players & Parents
Check In
- Arrive, check in, and pick up your number and event materials
9:00 – 11:00 AM
Players
ON-FIELD DRILLS & SCRIMMAGE
- Athletes rotate through drills led by ISL coaches
- Opportunity for 7v7 play to showcase skills
10:30 – 11:00 AM
Parents
Intro to the ISL Seminar
- Introduction to the admissions process, financial aid, timelines and how the athletic conversations fit into it all.
11:00 – 12:00 PM
PLAYERS & PARENTS
School Fair
- Meet the coaches one-on-one, ask questions about their program and their school
Parking & access
Getting to Rivers
- Enter The Rivers School at 333 Winter Street, Weston, MA.
- Follow event signage and staff direction toward Nonesuch Field (N on the campus map).
- Please use marked campus parking areas and allow a few extra minutes to walk to the field.
- Accessible routes are available through campus; families needing assistance can contact us before the event.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About the ISL
What is the ISL?+
The Independent School League (ISL) is a group of thirteen independent schools across Massachusetts and Rhode Island that compete against each other in athletics, including field hockey. Many families are new to the ISL and its schools — this event is designed to make that world more approachable.
What is the ISL Field Hockey Coaches Clinic?+
It's a morning where head field hockey coaches from all thirteen ISL schools come together in one place to coach players directly and answer questions from families about their programs and the admissions process.
Is this a recruiting event or a tryout?+
No. This is not a tryout, and no one is being evaluated for recruitment purposes. It's an opportunity for players to be coached by ISL coaches and for families to meet coaches, ask questions, and learn more about each school.
Is financial aid available at ISL schools?+
Most ISL schools offer need-based financial aid, and the amount and process vary by school. The parent session will walk through general timelines, and individual coaches and admissions staff can speak to their school's specific programs.
What's the difference between boarding and day options?+
It varies by school — some are all-boarding, some all-day, and some offer both. This is a good question to bring to individual coaches at the fair, since the right fit depends on your family's situation.
Do we need to have already applied to be here?+
This event is designed for families at any stage — whether you're just starting to explore ISL schools or already know where you want to apply.
Who should come
What grades is this for?+
Players in grades 5 through high school. Families at any stage of exploring prep school, from just starting to look, to deep into the process, are welcome.
Does my child need prior field hockey experience?+
No specific level of experience is required. Coaches will work with players of varying skill levels during the on-field portion.
Can younger siblings or other family members come?+
The on-field portion (9–11am) is for registered players. The school fair and parent session (10:30am–12pm) is open to the whole family.
What should my player wear or bring?+
Turf shoes, a mouthguard, a stick and should wear a reversible pinnie.
Coaches and schools
Will all thirteen ISL schools be there?+
Yes — a coach from every ISL school will be on the field and available at the fair.
Can I talk to a specific school's coach directly?+
Yes. The 11am–12pm fair is a walk-around format where you can approach any coach and ask questions. Coach contact information is also listed on this site if you'd like to reach out beforehand.
How do I know which schools might be a good fit?+
That's exactly what this event is for. Schools vary in grade range, size, and boarding/day balance — meeting coaches and asking questions in person is often the best way to get a feel for a school beyond its website.
OUR PARTNERS
Thank you to True Grit Field Hockey for organizing and overseeing all event logistics for the ISL Field Hockey Coaches Clinic.
