Syracuse field hockey has entered the 2026 season with a preseason ranking of ninth in the NFHCA poll, a position that reflects both the program’s recent successes and the challenges that lie ahead.
In the ACC coaches poll, the team was slotted fifth, trailing traditional powerhouses North Carolina, Virginia, Duke and Wake Forest, underscoring the competitive landscape of the conference.
Aubrey Turner’s Rising Prominence
Sophomore forward Aubrey Turner earned a spot on the Preseason All‑ACC Team after a breakout freshman year that saw her net seven goals, three of which came during the postseason, highlighting her knack for delivering in high‑pressure moments.
Turner’s ability to find the back of the net will be a key catalyst as the Orange adjust to the departure of top scorer Bo van Kempen, who has moved on from the program.
Replacing a Scoring Threat
The loss of Bo van Kempen leaves a sizable void in the attacking lineup, prompting coaches to look toward Turner and other returning players to shoulder more offensive responsibility.
Between the posts, veterans Jesse Eiselen and Tane King will handle the bulk of the work. Eiselen started 19 of 20 games last season, while King appeared in 17 matches in 2025, providing stability in penalty corners and net rotations.
The schedule presents a rigorous test, with six opponents already qualified for the NCAA tournament. The Orange view each contest as an opportunity to climb the rankings and secure their 16th NCAA Tournament appearance in the past 19 seasons.
Leadership will be anchored by Bo van Kempen’s former teammates and the newly appointed captains. Bo and Hattie Madden both started every game in 2025, and their experience is expected to guide the younger cohort through the rigors of a demanding season.