#LifeAfterWitt: Devyn Groves ‘26

Playing the sport, one loves most is always a blessing, and being able to play it in another country is even better.

Devyn Groves, who graduated this past May with a degree in sport management and a minor in religion, was a standout on Wittenberg's field hockey team. The forward from LaGrange, Kentucky, and graduate of Oldham County High School, recently returned from Italy after an invitation to play for a USA traveling team through the American International Sports Tours (AIST) Inc.

Groves was abroad from May 23 to June 1, playing field hockey and visiting several places throughout Italy.

"It was a chance to compete internationally while also experiencing a different culture and style of play," Groves said. "During the trip, I played for the USA and traveled to several locations throughout Italy, including Rome, Florence, the five lands of La Spezia, Monterosso, Vernazza, Lucca, Bra, Yurin, Como, and Venice.

"My favorite parts of the experience were competing against talented players from different backgrounds all over the country, learning new approaches to the game, and exploring Italy's culture and history," she added. "Being able to visit new places while continuing to play a sport I love has made this experience especially memorable."

Groves, who plans to pursue her master's degree in sport administration at the University of Louisville, not only played field hockey but also worked as an intern with the field hockey program. She also worked in the weight room during her time at Wittenberg.

As a player, Groves was a three-year starter for the Tigers, participating in a total of 63 matches and scoring 21 goals in her career with seven total assists. She racked up a total of 49 points and had 127 total shots, 81 on goal. In her junior year, Groves was named first-team All-North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) for her stellar play during the 2024 season. She led the team in goals with 11 and tallied 26 total points on the season. Four of her goals were game winners, which helped the Tigers to an 11-3 season record and 8-2 in the conference.

This past season, Wittenberg finished 6-11 overall and 6-3 in the conference, with Groves being named third-team All-NCAC. She registered four goals, an assist, and nine points with 29 total shots and 17 on goal.

"Playing internationally is something I have always been interested in. Field hockey has provided me with many opportunities, and being able to travel abroad while competing at a high level is an experience I never imagined having when I first started playing the sport," Groves said. "This experience has helped me grow both as a player and as a person. Competing against different styles of play has challenged me to adapt and improve my skills. It also strengthened my confidence, communication, and understanding of the game. I believe these experiences will help me contribute more effectively during my coaching after grad life.

"I am very grateful for this opportunity and for the support I have received from my family, teammates, coaches, and Wittenberg University," Groves added. "This trip has allowed me to represent both my sport and my university, while creating memories and connections that will last a lifetime. I am excited to bring what I have learned back with me and apply it both on and off the field."

About AIST - American International Sports Tours Inc. offers players or teams the opportunity to travel abroad and play internationally while exploring the world. AIST gives athletes the chance to represent the USA while competing against international competition.