Harvard’s field hockey squad has been crowned the preseason favorite in the Ivy League for 2026, earning ten first‑place votes and a total of 121 points at the top of the poll.
Historic Momentum
The Crimson’s rise is built on a breakthrough season a year ago, when the team advanced to the NCAA Tournament Semifinals for the second time in school history and set a program record with nineteen victories.
Adding to the excitement, three of the nation’s most decorated players — Sage Piekarski, Martha le Huray and Linde Burger — are returning, giving the roster a depth of experience that few programs can match.
National Acclaim
That pedigree has translated into a national preseason ranking of No. 4, the highest ever for Harvard hockey, and the team has already logged ten consecutive weeks inside the top five of the coaches’ poll, a school record.
The opening weekend will see the Crimson open against UMass Lowell on September 4 before traveling to face UConn on September 6, a schedule that promises early tests against strong non‑conference opponents.
Looking Ahead
With the momentum from last season and a roster bolstered by proven All‑Americans, coaches and fans alike are optimistic that Harvard can translate its preseason accolades into a championship‑contending campaign.