Penn State Field Hockey, under new head coach Hannah Prince, has unveiled a challenging 2026 schedule that marks a pivotal shift for the program. With a mix of competitive Big Ten and non-conference matchups, the team aims to rise in a demanding landscape featuring five NCAA tournament participants from 2025, including the champion and runner-up. The Nittany Lions will compete in a total of 17 regular-season games, with 10 held at their home turf, starting with non-conference clashes against Virginia and Lock Haven in late August.

By the Numbers
  • 17 regular-season games scheduled, including 10 at home.
  • 5 opponents that participated in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
  • 7 teams ranked in the top 20 RPI faced throughout the season.
State of Play
  • First season for head coach Hannah Prince, emphasizing a new era for the program.
  • Home opener against Virginia scheduled for August 28.
  • Regular season ends with a match against reigning champions Northwestern on October 30.
What's Next

The Nittany Lions are preparing for the upcoming season, focusing on building chemistry and resilience as they face a tough slate. The objective is to establish a competitive edge heading into the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments later in the fall.

Bottom Line

Penn State Field Hockey is poised for a transformative 2026 season, with an emphasis on forging a competitive identity amid a rigorous schedule. Success will rely on early adaptations and maximizing home-field advantage in a quest for NCAA contention.