The University of Wisconsin announced its 2026‑27 women's hockey conference schedule on Tuesday, confirming a slate that blends tradition with fresh challenges. As the reigning national champion, the Badgers will open the season with a much‑anticipated rematch against Ohio State on Oct. 9‑10 in Columbus, setting the tone for a campaign that promises both intensity and high‑stakes competition.
Early October: Opening Rematches and Home Debut
Wisconsin's first conference series pits the Badgers against the Buckeyes in a back‑to‑back showdown that will test the depth of both squads. The following weekend, the team returns to Madison for its home opener against the Minnesota State Mavericks on Oct. 16‑17, giving fans a first look at the new roster on their own ice.
October continues with a Halloween‑themed series against St. Cloud State on Oct. 30‑31. The matchup adds a spooky flair to the schedule while offering both teams a chance to fine‑tune strategies before the holiday break.
November: Home‑Court Advantage
November brings two consecutive home series for Wisconsin. The first, on Nov. 13‑14, welcomes St. Thomas to the LaBahn Arena, followed by a showdown with Bemidji State on Nov. 20‑21. The back‑to‑back format allows the Badgers to build momentum on familiar grounds before heading out on the road.
The Badgers then travel to Minneapolis for a Dec. 4‑5 clash with their longtime rivals, the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This border‑battle rivalry, always a highlight of the season, promises a packed arena and a fierce contest for conference bragging rights.
December: Home Series and Rivalry Continuation
A week after the Minnesota game, Wisconsin hosts Minnesota‑Duluth on Dec. 11‑12, closing out the first half of conference play with a series that could prove pivotal in the standings. The early December stretch showcases the team's ability to perform at home while maintaining a rigorous schedule.
January brings a two‑week road trip that tests the Badgers' resilience. The first leg sees the squad visit St. Paul to face St. Thomas on Jan. 15‑16, followed by a series in Mankato against Minnesota State on Jan. 22‑23. The itinerary continues with a Jan. 29‑30 trip to Bemidji, where the Badgers will aim to extend their winning streak.
February: Home Stretch and Final Rivalries
February opens with a home series against Minnesota on Feb. 5‑6 at LaBahn Arena, giving Wisconsin a chance to reclaim the border‑battle trophy on home ice. The schedule then shifts to Duluth for an away series on Feb. 12‑13, before the regular season culminates with a decisive home series against Ohio State on Feb. 19‑20.
The final matchup against Ohio State marks the end of the conference schedule and offers a chance for a rematch that could influence seeding for the upcoming conference tournament. With the season winding down, the Badgers will look to carry their early momentum into a strong finish.