The Bucknell Bison women’s soccer program is entering the 2026 campaign with a sense of renewal after a demanding 2025 season that tested both its depth and its resolve. Head coach Kelly Cook, now in her 12th year, returns with a roster that blends proven defensive leadership with a fresh infusion of talent from a highly rated first‑year class.
A Revamped Defensive Core
Senior captain Julia Palitti anchors a back four that has shown the ability to shut down opponents, while sophomore Emma Gavin adds experience at the center of defense. Juniors Ava Palladino and Leah DeLaurentiis provide width and versatility, giving the Bison a balanced unit that aims to eliminate the late‑season scoring drought that kept them out of the NCAA Tournament last year.
Offensive Firepower
The attack will be led by junior forward Katie Connell, who contributed five goals and two assists in 2025, and sophomore Gaby Parker, whose three goals and two assists highlighted a promising breakout season. Junior Presley Sutter is also expected to add depth up front, while junior Louisa Thomsen steps into the holding midfield role vacated by the graduated Sydney Hess, offering both creativity and defensive cover.
Early Tests on the Calendar
Bucknell opens the season with two road tests against Big Sky powerhouses Montana and Eastern Washington on August 13 and 16, respectively. Both programs finished strong in their conferences last year, making these early matches a crucial gauge of the Bison’s readiness. The team will return home for its first home appearance against Mount St. Mary’s on August 20, followed by non‑league contests versus La Salle, Saint Joseph’s, and Delaware.
Coach Kelly Cook’s Vision
Cook emphasizes consistency and attacking quality as the twin pillars of her program. She has scheduled a western swing every four years to foster off‑field chemistry, a tradition that will continue this season as the squad travels to face Montana and Eastern Washington. The coach’s focus on defensive solidity, paired with a renewed offensive mindset, sets the tone for what she hopes will be a championship‑contending year.
The Bison were selected seventh in the Patriot League preseason poll despite a history that includes three consecutive tournament titles from 2021‑23 and a 2024 regular‑season championship. With a blend of senior leadership, a talented incoming class, and a schedule designed to sharpen their game, Bucknell aims to climb the poll and secure another league title.