A New Era for the Great Danes
The University at Albany’s field hockey squad is entering the 2026 season with a clear championship mindset, aiming to capture its eighth America East title — a milestone that would extend a remarkable run that began in 2022. The program’s recent surge has been built on consistent winning records, strategic recruiting, and a core group of standout athletes who have already left their mark on the conference.
The 2025 campaign set the stage with an 11‑6 overall record and a third‑place finish in the America East, highlighted by a dominant 6‑1 victory over Bryant that propelled the team into the semifinals. Pilar Lorenzini earned Defensive Player of the Year honors and paced the offense with the most goals, while sophomore sensations Jette Kurz and Lillian Willis garnered All‑Rookie recognition for their immediate impact.
Returning seniors Emma Staron and Mara Küskes bring veteran stability, having started every game in 2025 and contributed 12 and 18 points respectively. Their experience will be complemented by the arrival of ten freshmen and transfers, including Lorenzini and Kurz, who form a deep and versatile recruiting class that could reshape the team’s dynamics.
Schedule and Tournament Ambitions
The Great Danes will open the season with home matchups against Wagner and Boston College, and the slate features eight contests at Alumni Turf, including marquee games versus UMass — a 2024 NCAA semifinalist — and other Power‑Four opponents. The final regular‑season showdown against UMass Lowell on October 29 will determine seeding for the conference tournament, where the team hopes to host every round, culminating in the championship game on its own turf.
Beyond the field, all home games will be streamed on AmericaEast.TV, while road contests may appear on ESPN+, AmericaEast.TV, and NEC Front Row, ensuring broad visibility for the program’s push toward another historic title.