The University of Connecticut's women's field hockey program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign, opening the season with a pair of high‑profile contests that will be streamed live on ESPN+.
The Huskies open against the University of New Hampshire on Saturday, August 29 at noon, before traveling to face Saint Joseph's on Sunday, August 30 at 2 p.m. Both games will be available to subscribers of the streaming service, marking a key early test for the team's broadcast reach.
Early Schedule Details
UConn enters the season ranked 11th in the NFHCA preseason poll, a placement that reflects the program's steady rise over the past few years. The coaching staff has emphasized continuity, bringing back a core group of veterans while integrating a handful of promising newcomers.
Goalkeeper Natalie McKenna returns between the posts, providing a stable presence after a strong previous season. Along the back line, defenders Fien Hollander, Olivia Donahue and Milou Huecker will anchor the defense, having each earned significant minutes in 2025.
Midfield leadership will be carried by Olivia McKenna, who has been praised for her vision and stamina. The midfield also welcomes a group of sophomores — Abby Davidson, Emma Larit, Keet Castelijn, Sydney Moritz and Addy Infante — who are expected to contribute across both attack and defensive phases.
The roster also features several transfers who bring Big 10 experience. Maya Everett, Faith Everett, AJ Eyre and Ellie Goldstein arrived from the University of Maryland, while Marlijn Swaan completed a move from the University of New Hampshire. Their familiarity with high‑level competition should add depth to the lineup.
Last season the Huskies posted a 4‑3 victory over New Hampshire and fell to Saint Joseph's in a shootout, 2‑1. Those results set the stage for a rematch that could shape the team's trajectory heading into conference play.