Other teams to watch:
Massachusetts
After making waves in the Atlantic 10 (A10) by being one of two teams in the conference to claim a spot in last year’s NCAA Semifinals, the Minutewomen are ready to dominate the Mid-American Conference (MAC). Despite being bested by Saint Joseph’s in the A10 Championship last season, Massachusetts entered a run for the national title on an at-large bid. The Minutewomen suffered a 1-0 semifinal exit to eventual national champion Northwestern, marking an end to their historic run. This year, Massachusetts returns Second Team All-American and A10 Goalkeeper of the Year Myrte van Herwijnen and A10 Rookie of the Year Elani Sherwood, but will be missing key pieces of the roster after the graduation of Hannah de Gast, Paula Lorenzini, and USWNT athlete Claire Danahy.
Saint Joseph’s
The Hawks picked up serious attention last year after dethroning North Carolina, 2-1, in the NCAA Semifinal and earning an appearance in the title game for the first time in program history. After the success of last season, Saint Joseph’s is looking to replace a powerful graduating class – Kate Crist, Julia Duffhuis, Manu Ghigliotti, and Lily Santi to name a few – with a talented group of freshmen and transfers. Head coach Hannah Prince and her staff were honored as the NFHCA Mid-Atlantic Regional Coaching Staff of the Year after the 20-4 season.
Virginia
As always, Virginia has promise to make a run this season, coming in third behind North Carolina and Duke in the recent ACC Preseason Poll. With returning talent like Mia Abello, Suze Leemans, and Emma Watchilla, in addition to new and top recruits like Soren Kipphut, Bella Moore, and Caroline Raynes, the Cavaliers could have what it takes.
Boston College
Boston College, who concluded the 2024 season ranked 7th in the nation after upsetting conference foes Duke and Virginia and earning an at-large bid, also looks to continue its recent success. Eagles returners to watch include Madelieve Drion, Mia Garber, Martina Giacchino, Eva Kluskens, and ACC Goalkeeper of the Year Charlotte Kramer. Freshmen Kate Block, Alex de Cain and Sophia Sisco also look to make an impact.
Maryland
A team steeped in rich hockey history, Maryland always finds its way to the top of national polls. But despite making consecutive runs in the national tournament, the Terps have not made it to the title game since 2018. Notable returners include U-21 USWNT members Maci Bradford, Ella Gaitan, and Alyssa Klebasko, and USWNT athlete Josie Holloman. Maryland secured several top recruits in Erin Callahan, Faith Everett, and Jordyn Holloman.
Ohio State
Ohio State had a strong previous season, finishing 12th in the national poll and notching a notable 2-1 win over Maryland. With Ohio State Female Athlete of the Year and Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) draftee Makenna Webster returning for her final year, the Buckeyes are on the prowl for some more upsets this fall.
Harvard
Back-to-back champions of the newly added Ivy League Tournament, Harvard continues to impress on the national stage. Second Team All-American defender Bronte-May Brough returns for her senior season, alongside goalkeeper Tessa Shahbo.
Princeton
Alongside Harvard, Princeton dominates the Ivy League, winning last year’s regular season title with a 7-0 conference record. With Olympian and current USWNT athlete Beth Yeager returning for her senior campaign, in addition to talents like Ella Cashman and Talia Schneck, the Tigers are set for another successful season.
By USWNT
