Katie Connell, a junior forward for Bucknell University, has once again been recognized by the Patriot League, earning a spot on the Preseason All-Patriot League Women’s Soccer Team for the second year in a row.
The honor follows a breakout start to her collegiate career, during which she recorded five goals in each of her first two seasons and amassed ten goals with five assists overall.
Coached by a staff that saw the Bison finish ninth in the 2025 league table but return nine starters, Connell is viewed as the team’s top returning scorer and a central piece of the 2026 lineup.
Bucknell’s preseason poll placed them seventh in the conference, trailing powerhouses such as Army, Boston University and Colgate, yet the coaching staff remains confident in the squad’s depth.
Conference accolades
The league’s individual awards were distributed among other standout players, with Army’s Bella Conti named Forward of the Year, Lafayette’s Nadia Zaffanella honored as Midfielder of the Year, Boston University’s Helene Tyburczy selected as Defender of the Year, and Colgate’s Ella Poppinga voted Goalkeeper of the Year.
Bucknell will open its season with a scrimmage against Manhattan on August 3 at 3 p.m., followed by its official debut against Montana on August 13 at 7 p.m. Eastern time.
With a blend of experienced returnees and fresh talent, the Bison hope to translate their preseason optimism into a competitive campaign that could restore the program’s recent tournament success.