The 2026 high school field hockey season is set to begin on August 26 in New Hampshire, with Maine not far behind, bringing together nine programs that span multiple divisions.
Among them, St. Thomas Aquinas enters the season as the defending 2025 NHIAA Division III champions, now moving up to Division II under Coach Lindsay Dobecki. The Saints will field a younger roster, but the coaching staff stresses chemistry and the chance to repeat success in a new competitive landscape.
Dover, guided by Coach Sarah Michaud, finished the previous year at 10‑5‑2 before bowing out in the Division I first round. Key contributors such as forward Hannah Calhoun, goalie Scarlett Gray and midfielder/defender Molly Angers are expected to anchor a team hoping to translate early‑season momentum into a deeper playoff run.
Exeter, led by Coach Deb Grott, posted a 10‑8 record in 2025 and fell in the Division I quarterfinals. Goalkeeper Amalia Gloss and forward Emma Cummings, both recognized as Division I all‑state honorable mentions, return to lead an attack that aims to sharpen its edge against tougher opponents.
Championship expectations and new challenges
Portsmouth, under Coach Allison St. Jean, endured a challenging 1‑14 season and missed the Division I tournament, but preseason scrimmages suggest noticeable improvement in midfield cohesion and defensive stability.
Winnacunnet, coached by Heidi Hand, closed the last campaign at 13‑3‑2 and reached the Division I semifinals. Star forward Fiona McAfee, a first‑team all‑state selection, and defensive standout Mary Koulheras are among the players the team will rely on as they chase another strong showing.
Oyster River, directed by Coach Anne Golding, finished 14‑3‑1 last year and lost in the Division II semifinals. The Bobcats are slated to open the season against Souhegan and John Stark, using the early schedule to test their mettle and build early confidence.
South Marshwood, overseen by Coach Molly Humiston, ended 2025 at 5‑8 and missed the Class A South tournament. With only six upperclassmen, the Hawks are focusing on skill development and teamwork as they look to close the gap on more experienced rivals.
South York, coached by Barb Marois, posted a 5‑9‑1 record and fell in the Class B South first round. The Wildcats are practicing on artificial turf, and early sessions have highlighted growing chemistry and effort among the squad.
South Traip Academy, under Coach Libby Hite, finished 6‑7 and exited in the Class C South quarterfinals. Despite a small roster, the Rangers boast experienced forwards and a reliable goalie, and they are emphasizing leadership and fresh energy to compete effectively.
Across the board, coaches repeatedly stress that teamwork, dedicated practice and the ability to overcome early‑season challenges will be decisive factors in determining which programs advance to the playoffs and which aim to improve their standings.