Big10, ACC, A10, and Ivy leagues lock in top 10 Division I field hockey preseason spots: NFHCA coaches poll
The NFHCA released its preseason poll Tuesday. Photo: Bob Benscoter
The National Field Hockey Coaches Association released its Division I preseason poll Tuesday, and all signs point to an exciting season ahead.
Coming in at No. 1 is Northwestern University. The Wildcats enter the year with momentum after last November’s dominant 5-0 NCAA Division I championship victory, and they show no signs of slowing down.
Olympic standouts Maddie Zimmer and Ashley Sessa headline the roster, with Sessa leading the team last season in both goals (24) and assists (19). Defender Ilse Tromp adds experience and consistency, having logged a conference-high of 1,439 minutes played.
With Tracey Fuchs — NFHCA Hall of Fame inductee — at the forefront, the Wildcats are once again the team to beat.
At No. 2 is North Carolina, a name that corresponds with college field hockey excellence.
Head coach Erin Matson enters her third season with a roster stacked with talent. Second-year captain Sietske Brüning anchors the midfield, while Charly Bruder, last year’s national scoring leader with 27 goals, remains an offensive weapon.
Add in the attacking strength of Ryleigh Heck and the arrival of her sister, transfer Kara Heck, and the Tar Heels have both depth and big-name presence to push for another natty.
The University of Virginia stays consistent at the No. 3 spot, where they ranked in last year’s preseason poll. The Cavaliers return with a balanced and experienced lineup.
Midfielder Mia Abello and defender Anneloes Knol hold down the midfield, while forward Esha Shah brings dynamic scoring ability up front. With a strong defensive unit and a deep roster, Virginia is ready to challenge any team for a national title.
At No. 4 is the University of Maryland, entering the season with a dynamic roster. Sophomore goalkeeper Alyssa Klebasko returns after a strong freshman campaign, providing stability in goal alongside ‘Big10 'Defensive Player of the Year,’ Josie Hollamon.
Midfielder Maya Everett adds creativity and vision to the Terps midfield. With a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent, the Maryland team is ready to make a significant impact this season.
Rounding out the top five is Duke University, bursting with energy from a core, seasoned by international play. Alaina McVeigh, Madison Beach, and Macy Szukics all competed at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, where they took home silver.
McVeigh in particular stood out, finishing as Team USA’s top scorer with 11 goals. Their experience on the international fields could translate into a breakout season for the Blue Devils.
With proven champions at the top and hungry challengers close behind, the preseason poll highlights just how exciting this season could be. From Olympic talent to rising stars, the chase for the 2025 NCAA title is already shaping up to be an electrifying ride from start to finish.
20. Wake Forest
18. Penn State
18. Albany
17. Liberty
16. Rutgers
15. Iowa
14. UMass, Amherst
13. Ohio State
11. Syracuse
11. UConn
10. Princeton
9. Saint Joseph's
8. Boston College
7. Michigan
6. Harvard
5. Duke
4. Maryland
3. Virginia
2. North Carolina
1. Northwestern
Thank you for reading Female Athlete News. Sydney Madden is a student-intern at Penn State University.