Sophomore Summer: Field Hockey's Taylor Hantman

Throughout the summer, DartmouthSports.com will be focusing on members of the Class of 2021 who are currently in their "Sophomore Summers" presented by Cape Air.

This installment focuses on Taylor Hantman, a native of Cherry Hills, Colorado, and a member of the Big Green field hockey team.

DartmouthSports.com: What was it in the recruiting process that sold you on Dartmouth?
Taylor Hantman: I slowly learned the best way to really understand how a program operates was to watch the team and coaches interact in both practice and games. Compared to every other program I reviewed, Dartmouth stood out because of the way the team and the coaches matched their intense desire to win with a natural and authentic care and concern for each other. The team and coaches push each other to be their best on and off the field in a way that is only possible with a super high level of mutual respect.

DS: If you could play another sport at Dartmouth, what would it be and why?
TH: Skiing for sure. I grew up skiing at home, and I would love to be a better skier.

DS: Outside of sports, what are you most passionate about?
TH: I am passionate about sharing a positive mindset and fostering inclusivity by bringing people together.

DS: Other than your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life?
TH: My older sister has definitely shaped who I am as a person today. I copied her with everything she did. We went to the same schools and played the same sports. I learned from her mistakes and emulated her successes. She's also been my best friend and core supporter through life.

DS: Who would play you in the movie of your life?
TH: Reese Witherspoon

DS: What has been your best on-field memory thus far in your Dartmouth career?
TH: My best (and worst) memory so far was our game against Brown freshman year. It was raining sideways and cold, causing two 30-minute rain delays. We were closely matched and could not win in regulation, leading to two overtime sessions, which failed to produce a winner. Shootouts were next; also ending with a tie. In the second round of shootouts, we won! This was one of the longest games in history and this was our first Ivy win so I will remember this game forever.

DS: What's the app you use most on your phone?
TH: Google Maps… because anyone who knows me knows I am severely directionally challenged.

DS: What show do you binge watch?
TH: Big Little Lies right now!

DS: What are your post-Dartmouth plans?
TH: I intend to apply to law school. I am most interested in criminal justice and would like to possibly work in a district attorney's office, perhaps in a victims rights unit.

DS: What would be your best advice to your 15-year-old self?
TH: Focus on what is important in life, not what appears urgent in the moment. Worry less about the trivial and superficial concerns of high school popularity and perceive the world more broadly.

DS: If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
TH: I've never been to Asia and I would love to visit Hong Kong or Tokyo.

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