The 2026 NFHCA preseason coaches’ poll has positioned the Miami RedHawks at No.10 and the UMass Minutewomen at No.15, underscoring the impact of last season’s achievements. Both squads earned those rankings after capturing the 2025 MAC regular‑season titles and battling through a tightly contested conference championship.
Early Season Matchups
Miami will begin its campaign on the road in Kentucky, opening with a Friday night clash against No.19 Louisville before heading to Indiana on Saturday. The Minutewomen, meanwhile, open on a neutral site against No.8 Liberty on Saturday, setting up an early test against a top‑ranked opponent.
Returning stars anchor the expectations for both teams. Malena Sabez, the 2025 MAC Offensive Player of the Year, led the conference with 25 goals last season, while freshman standout Justina Intzes added 20 goals as the league’s Freshman of the Year. Their presence adds depth and firepower to the RedHawks' attack.
Key Players to Watch
Miami’s roster retains nine athletes who logged over 500 minutes a year ago, ensuring continuity and experience. UMass counters with top scorers Emily Barrett, who tallied 18 points, and Fiene Jenniskens, who contributed 17 points, both returning to lead the Minutewomen's offense. The Minutewomen also bring back a core group that posted a combined 33‑10 record over the past two seasons and reached the 2024 national semifinals.