Emma Schwarzenbek Commits to Babson College Field Hockey

On July 18, rising senior Emma Schwarzenbek announced her commitment to Babson College for field hockey via Instagram.

Schwarzenbek, a standout on Westfield’s field hockey team has made a name for herself as one of the most dependable and dynamic players, known for her speed, control and ability to perform under pressure.

Schwarzenbek has been instrumental in Westfield’s success over the past three years, with some of her finest moments coming in high-stakes situations. “I am most proud of moments like shootouts and strokes when I was able to perform my best under high pressure,” she said.

Her journey to Babson wasn’t without its challenges. An injury during the recruiting process threatened to derail her momentum, but Schwarzenbek showed her resilience. “I overcame it by focusing on working hard to recover and come back better than I was before,” she said. That perseverance helped land her at a college that checks every box, academically and athletically.

Located in Wellesley, MA, Babson is a Division III school that competes in the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference. The Beavers had a strong 2024 season, winning their conference and finishing second in the NEWMAC Presidents Cup. 

Their head coach is not only an accomplished athlete but also a strong academic mentor, something Schwarzenbek values as she plans to major in business. “Babson stood out to me as the right fit because of its focus on business and its successful field hockey team,” she said. “There will be a good balance of school and athletics.”

Emily Kennedy, Schwarzenbek’s teammate, highlighted her value on and off the field. “The hard work and the passion she has for the sport really translates to how she plays,” said Kennedy. “My favorite memory of playing with her was winning in overtime at Livingston.” 

On the field, Schwarzenbek’s teammates value her reliability and unique skillset. “She has the ability to run through multiple people and still keep the ball on the stick, something that really changes the game,” Kennedy emphasized.

Schwarzenbek’s commitment is not only a personal milestone, it reflects the strength of Westfield’s athletic program. “I think it’s great that Westfield is represented by so many athletes at the collegiate level and I am excited to be another person representing,” she said.

Lisa Schwarzenbek, Schwarzenbek’s mother, said, “I was so happy for Emma and so relieved that the wait was over. She really wants to go to an academically competitive school and major in business. Babson ticks both of those boxes.” She also highlighted the sacrifices that were made along the way: “Emma had tournaments every Easter and Thanksgiving. We missed birthdays and family get-togethers. Luckily we have a very sports-obsessed family so everyone understood.”

As she prepares for her senior season, Schwarzenbek is focused on both short and long-term goals. “Athletically, I want to positively impact the team and continue to become a better player throughout my time in college,” she said. With her passion, talent and drive, Schwarzenbek is eager to make a lasting impression at Babson, both on the field and in the classroom.