For many athletes, the sport they play chooses them. They do not choose the sport.
For Yale University freshman field hockey player Lore Laniyan, through, the game has shaped her into the confident person she is today, on and off the field.
Growing up in Houston, Texas, Laniyan began playing field hockey in the sixth grade at age 12 because it was the only sport available during the fall season. Three years later, during her ninth-grade year, she joined the Texas-based powerhouse Texas Pride Field Hockey Club, a year-round competitive travel program with teams ranging in ages from 8–19.
Laniyan initially joined Texas Pride because many of her friends were participating. Over time, she began attending camps while still in middle school, which deepened her enjoyment of competitive play. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, Texas Pride continued to offer weekly practices, and it was during that period that her passion for the sport truly took hold.
“Growing up in Houston and playing field hockey, a lot of the time, I was the only Black player on the field because I started late,” Laniyan said. “I could tell that many of the girls I played with did not expect someone like me to stick with the sport. I believe my toughness and willingness to improve helped my teammates and coaches see that I could hold my own.”
Early in her development, Laniyan played multiple positions, allowing her to build versatility and confidence. Her quick and agile style of play, combined with defensive intensity, helped her establish herself as a reliable midfield player.
“Because I was willing to play any position my coaches needed, they kept me on the field,” she said. “Once I started getting stronger and taking strides in the midfield, I felt comfortable.”
During her sophomore year at St. John’s School, Laniyan believed her progress would earn her a varsity roster spot. When she was not selected, it became a defining moment. As one of the older junior varsity players, she embraced leadership, assisting coaches with drills and setting an example for teammates. She credits that experience as a major source of confidence today.
That growth translated into success. Laniyan helped the Texas Pride program earn national recognition, including a third-place finish at the 2025 National Club Championship. The club was ranked second in the country by USA Field Hockey in 2024 and followed that with a third-best national ranking in 2025.
At St. John’s School, Laniyan scored 10 goals during her senior season, earned the Senior Award, and helped her team win two Southwest Preparatory Conference 4A championships. She also excelled academically, being named an NFHCA Scholar of Distinction in 2023 and 2024.
During her senior year of high school in 2024, Laniyan committed to Yale University.
“Growing up in a Nigerian family, education is extremely important,” she said. “When I visited campus and met the coaching staff, it became clear Yale was the right place for me.”
As she prepares for her first spring season at Yale, Laniyan remains focused on growth.
“My goal is to keep getting stronger physically and mentally so I can be a player the coaches can rely on,” she said.