A Watchlist Spotlight
The National Field Hockey Coaches Association has released its 2026 Collegiate Watchlist, and the University of Pennsylvania is well represented with three of its student‑athletes earning the distinction. The recognition highlights not only individual excellence but also the growing depth of talent within the Quakers' program as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
Reese Czajkowski, who transferred from Bucknell University, brings a proven scoring touch that helped her rank second on the Bison roster and 47th nationally in goals per game. Her sophomore season yielded 10 goals and 22 points, earning her a Second‑Team All‑Patriot League nod and positioning her as a key offensive weapon for Penn.
Freshman Victoria Manzur arrives from Mareil‑Marly, France, carrying an impressive international résumé. She has logged more than 30 appearances for the French national team and captured the Championnat de France Elite Division title in 2025, along with multiple youth championships in 2020, 2022 and 2024. Her global experience adds a distinctive flair to the Quakers' attacking lineup.
Riley Thomson, entering her junior year, has been a mainstay in the Penn lineup, appearing in all 16 games during both the 2024 and 2025 seasons. She contributed a goal and four assists for six points in 2025 and earned a spot on the Scotland U21 Junior World Cup squad, underscoring her rising profile on the world stage.
Season Opener on the Horizon
Excitement is building as the Quakers gear up to open the 2026 season against North Carolina on September 4. The match promises to showcase the fresh talent highlighted by the NFHCA watchlist and to test the team's cohesion as they blend experienced contributors with promising newcomers.