The 2026 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Eastern Division preseason coaches' poll has positioned Shippensburg University’s field hockey program as a clear contender, ranking the Raiders second behind Kutztown University.
Preseason Rankings and First‑Place Votes
Kutztown collected seven first‑place votes, while Shippensburg earned two, securing the runner‑up spot. West Chester followed in third with a single first‑place vote, and the top five was rounded out by East Stroudsburg and Bloomsburg.
The Raiders’ optimism is rooted in a dominant 2025 campaign that ended with a 20‑3 record, a PSAC championship and an NCAA Division II national title. Coach Rayell Wallace, now in her second year at the helm, emphasized continuity and the goal of defending both conference and national crowns.
Key Players and Roster Dynamics
Returning All‑American Hannah White headlines a core group of 15 veterans, complemented by eight freshmen who bring new energy to the squad. The departing seniors include goalkeepers Emma Albee, forward Lilly Cantabene and midfielder Agus Garibaldi, whose contributions helped forge the championship foundation.
Wallace highlighted the blend of experience and youth, noting that the team’s chemistry has been reinforced during offseason training and that the roster’s depth positions the Raiders for a strong start.
Season Opener and Neutral‑Site Matchups
The Raiders will open the season on September 4‑5 with two neutral‑site contests against Belmont Abbey and Lander, events hosted by Wingate. These early games will serve as a litmus test for the team’s cohesion before conference play begins.
Beyond the opening weekend, the schedule promises a rigorous slate against the other Eastern Division powers, with the coaching staff confident that the experience gained from last year’s championship run will translate into competitive edge.