US Team Handball Women's National Team

Basic Facts

DOB: 4/3/82
Place of Birth: Clinton, MD
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, MD
Height: 5’8”
Position: Center Back
Started Playing: Sept. 2002
High School: Archbishop Spalding
College: USMA at West Point
Major: Psychology

Don’t be deceived by her easygoing nature, or her carefree smile. If there was one word used to describe Sara on and off the court that word would be: commitment. There is a fierce focus and determination about her, qualities that stand out in every aspect of her life. 

Sara’s Olympic dreams began at a very young age. She grew up in a close knit family where, rather than watching television, they were prone to hang out together and play football or street hockey outdoors. “I was always in the back yard playing with my parents, older brother Brian, and younger sister Abbie, and dreaming about what it would be like to be on the Olympic (team). My parents encouraged me to never stop dreaming. It makes me so thankful for all the support I had.” As an avid athlete, Sara immersed herself in sports such as soccer, ice hockey, softball and track. It is the combined experience of these sports that makes Sara a natural fit in team handball.

Sara’s handball career began in college, where she followed in her father and brother’s footsteps in attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, (younger sister, Abbie, currently attending the Naval Academy). After a friend introduced her to the sport, there was no going back. Sara joined the West Point team. “I love that it is the ultimate sport. Even with one good person on the team you still can’t achieve success without the other member’s contributions. Everybody has to be willing to work hard and play their best or else you’re not going to win.” Sara excelled on her college team, bringing them to the College National Championships in 2002 and placing 1st in 2003. Along with a 2rd place finish in 2004, Sara was also a team captain. West Point also competed in the national club league where they placed 3rd her senior year. It was during this time when Sara found herself in contact with the US National coach.

Sara went through try-outs and made the WNT but was unable to join immediately because of military obligations. When she was able to join the team, Sara connected instantly with her teammates and soon found herself at home among aspiring Olympians. “The girls just made me laugh, and I felt welcomed since day one.” Sara also experiences the intense desire and commitment each player has to making this Olympic dream come true. “Even when you are practicing at dawn…looking at each other, we know what our mission is and we push each other towards it.  I love being a part of a team and watching it grow.”

Sara, and teammates Jennie, Jacque, and Sunny, share a unique contribution to the WNT. Along with being full-time residents for team handball, they continue to serve their country as soldiers in the Army. “The WCAP, (World Class Athlete Program), is an opportunity for soldiers with exceptional abilities to pursue their dreams through the military. I served one year overseas in the Republic of Korea. I became a Medical Service Officer and got experience working with soldiers; men and women of the US Army. From them I learned a lot of the same characteristics that are needed in this residency program…such as teamwork, self sacrifice, and dedication. As seen by our soldiers serving overseas, we cannot afford to give anything less than 100% everyday.”

Although her goals are set, Sara does not lose sight of the bigger picture. She is extremely dedicated to her family, her fiance (Joshua Wilson-USMA Class of 2004), and her service to the US. “My brother, (a Blackhawk pilot), and classmates are currently serving overseas tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, and I would proudly serve with them if they need me now or after the 2008 Olympic Games.” 

It is this commitment and determined attitude that makes Sara a standout on this team. Expect big results and accomplishments from Sara, on and off the court.