A Bold New Chapter for the Red Wolves
The Saint Francis field hockey program, now known as the Red Wolves, has announced its 2026 schedule as it prepares for its first year competing at the NCAA Division III level. The release marks a milestone for the university as the team transitions into a new competitive environment while maintaining a challenging non‑conference slate.
The opening stretch is particularly intense, with four matches packed into five days beginning September 4 at Penn State Harrisburg. That early test will be followed by a home opener against Concordia University Wisconsin on September 7, a game that also doubles as Senior Day for the hosts.
The schedule blends opponents from all three NCAA divisions, featuring a Division I showdown at Mercyhurst on September 8 and a subsequent road trip to Lock Haven on September 18. Both schools posted strong records the previous season, adding extra significance to those matchups.
Two night games are slated for DeGol Field, with Mercyhurst visiting on October 6 and Washington & Jefferson meeting the Red Wolves on October 21. The evening settings are expected to draw larger crowds and create a distinctive atmosphere for the team and its supporters.
Returning talent will anchor the squad, including six players from the previous roster and team captains T Ciaccia and Avery Bradburn. Their experience is viewed as a critical foundation as the program adjusts to the rigors of Division III competition.
Head coach Nicole Bocox emphasized that the demanding schedule is designed to accelerate team bonding and provide valuable growth opportunities for the student‑athletes. She believes the mix of opponents will test the squad in diverse ways and prepare them for future success.
The regular season will close with a road trip to Christopher Newport on October 24. The Captains finished the prior season with a 19‑1 record, dropping only one game in the NCAA Division III semifinals, making the final matchup a notable benchmark for the Red Wolves.