The University of Minnesota women's hockey program unveiled its 2026‑27 schedule on Wednesday, confirming a 34‑game slate that blends home‑court dominance with a demanding road circuit.
Eighteen of those contests will be played in the iconic Ridder Arena, giving the Gophers a familiar backdrop for what promises to be a competitive season. The campaign opens with a two‑game conference series at Bemidji State on October 2‑3, setting the tone for a schedule that balances regional rivalries with national exposure.
East/West Showcase and Early Highlights
From October 9‑11 the Gophers will host the East/West Showcase at Ridder Arena, featuring matchups against Maine and Bemidji State. The event underscores the program’s role in curating high‑profile non‑conference play and provides fans with a concentrated burst of top‑level hockey.
Conference play ramps up in October with a series against Ohio State on the 16th‑17th, followed by a non‑conference visit from Lindenwood on the 22nd‑23rd. The Gophers close October with a road back‑to‑back against Minnesota Duluth on the 30th‑31st, a team that consistently challenges Minnesota’s aspirations.
Mid‑Season Marquee Matchups
December brings a marquee home series against Wisconsin on the 4th‑5th, a rivalry that draws statewide attention. The Gophers will also host St. Thomas on the 11th for the third annual Field Trip Game, an event that blends community outreach with on‑ice competition.
The new year sees the team travel to Ohio State in late January, then host St. Thomas in a two‑game series on the 29th‑30th. A February Border Battle against Wisconsin on the 5th‑6th promises another high‑stakes showdown, while the regular season wraps with a home‑and‑home against St. Cloud State on the 19th‑20th.
Throughout the schedule, game times and television designations will be announced later, but the breadth of opponents — from Penn State and Princeton in the DI in DC event to Minnesota State and Bemidji State in conference play — ensures a diverse and challenging slate.