Field Hockey | 6/23/2026 11:03:00 AM
LORETTO, Pa. — A new coach and a new identity have not changed expectations for the Saint Francis field hockey program as it prepares for its inaugural season as the Red Wolves and its first year competing at the NCAA Division III level.
Head coach
Nicole Bocox unveiled the 2026 schedule on Tuesday.
"The 2026 schedule presents a unique and challenging slate of competition, featuring opponents from all three NCAA divisions," Bocox said. "As an independent program this fall, we have the opportunity to continue competing against Division I opponents while also facing strong Division III competition. This diverse schedule will provide valuable experiences for our student-athletes and help prepare us for success throughout the season."
The Red Wolves open the season with four matches in five days, beginning Sept. 4 at Penn State Harrisburg. The Lions, members of the United East Conference, posted a 13-3 record last season and earned their first conference championship appearance. Penn State Harrisburg went undefeated at home in 2025 and returns most of its roster for the upcoming campaign.
Saint Francis returns home on Labor Day, Sept. 7, to host Concordia University Wisconsin in its home opener. The 10 a.m. contest will also serve as Senior Day and marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Red Wolves will travel to Wisconsin for a rematch on Oct. 16.
Concordia Wisconsin added field hockey in 2016, becoming one of the first NCAA Division III programs in the Midwest and the westernmost Division III field hockey program in the country. The Falcons finished 4-11 last season as members of the College Field Hockey Conference.
"We are excited about what this schedule offers both on and off the field," Bocox said. "Our trip to Wisconsin will provide an excellent opportunity for team bonding."
The first Division I matchup of the season comes Sept. 8 at Mercyhurst. The Lakers dropped a 5-0 decision to Saint Francis last season and will enter their third season in the Northeast Conference under a new head coach.
Another familiar Division I opponent awaits Sept. 18 when Saint Francis travels to Lock Haven.
The Red Wolves return six players from last year's squad, including newly named team captains
T Ciaccia and
Avery Bradburn.
"We are fortunate to have strong leadership from T and Avery, who demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout the spring season," Bocox said. "They have embraced the responsibility of helping establish and reinforce the program's values while welcoming six first-year student-athletes into the team. Their leadership will be instrumental as our newcomers learn our systems and contribute to the continued growth of the program."
Other the highlights of the schedule are two contests under the lights at DeGol Field. Saint Francis hosts Mercyhurst on Oct. 6 and welcomes Washington & Jefferson on Oct. 21. Both matches are scheduled for 7 p.m.
The regular season concludes Oct. 24 with a road trip to Christopher Newport. The Captains finished 19-1 last season, suffering their only loss in the NCAA Division III semifinals.
Playing as an independent forced Saint Francis to schedule a lot of road games, but coach Bocox believe the challenge will benefit her young team.
"Our incoming class brings enthusiasm, versatility and a competitive mindset," Bocox said. "While facing Division I competition as first-year players presents a significant challenge, they are eager to embrace the opportunity. This group has shown a willingness to contribute in multiple roles and positions, providing valuable flexibility and depth to our roster."
Click Here for the complete 2026 schedule.
