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Badgers Claim Top Ranking Amidst NCAA Hockey Shake-Up
16 Sep
Summary
- Wisconsin Badgers ranked number one in USA Hockey's preseason poll.
- Key players departed from top teams like Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Minnesota.
- The NCAA women's hockey season begins September 18-19.
The Wisconsin Badgers women's hockey team has been awarded the number one national ranking in the USA Hockey preseason poll, according to the latest rankings released shortly before the 2026-27 season begins. This prestigious position follows a conference poll that ranked them second within the WCHA, setting the stage for a competitive season.
Perennial contenders Wisconsin and Ohio State are expected to contend for both conference and national titles. However, both teams, along with other top programs like Minnesota and Penn State, are navigating significant roster changes. Heavy player departures, influenced by the 2026 PWHL Draft and ongoing PWHL expansion, have impacted numerous NCAA teams.
Key departures from Wisconsin include Caroline Harvey and Laila Edwards, while Ohio State lost Emma Peschel and Sloane Mathews to professional play. Minnesota and Northeastern also saw crucial players move on. Despite these challenges, programs like Minnesota-Duluth, bolstered by players such as Caitlin Kraemer, are anticipated to emerge as strong contenders.
The 2026-27 NCAA women's hockey season officially kicks off on September 18 and 19. The opening weekend features Mercyhurst as the only ranked program in action. The following weekend promises an exciting start with a non-conference series between Ohio State and Penn State, marking the beginning of their respective seasons.
