At 23, Erin Matson became the youngest Division I head coach to win an NCAA championship. Less than two months after graduating from the University of North Carolina, and after capturing four national titles as a Tar Heels player, Erin faced her next big test: taking the reins from Hall of Fame coach Karen Shelton.

In this episode, Erin shares how the preparation and attention to detail she mastered on the field helped her earn one of the most prestigious jobs in college field hockey, and how she's evolved her communication style with players and assistants to build trust and keep her team aligned. Erin reflects on the pivotal role her family played in her development as an athlete, opens up about her Olympic aspirations, and shares her unique perspective on how student-athletes can approach NIL opportunities while intentionally building their personal brands.

Whether you're a student-athlete, aspiring or current leader, parent, or coach, Erin's wisdom in this episode will resonate far beyond the game.

Topics covered: Erin Matson, UNC field hockey, NCAA national championship, leadership, confidence, personal branding, NIL, coaching, young leaders, earning trust.

Show notes and Socials:

UNC Field Hockey:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncfieldhockey/?hl=en
• https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinafieldhockey
• https://goheels.com/sports/field-hockey

Erin Matson:

• https://www.instagram.com/erin_matson/
• https://www.tiktok.com/@erin_matson
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinsmatson/

The Athlete Effect™:

• instagram.com/the_athlete_effect
• tiktok.com/@theathleteeffect
• www.youtube.com/@TheAthleteEffect

Bonnie Bernstein:

• instagram.com/BonnieBernstein
• https://www.tiktok.com/discover/bonnie-bernstein
• twitter.com/BonnieBernstein
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-bernstein/