FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Sacred Heart University women's ice hockey team was selected as the preseason favorite in the New England Women's Hockey Alliance (NEWHA) Coaches' Poll, the league announced Wednesday. The Pioneers, who captured last year's championship, enter the 2025-26 season as the top choice.

The Pioneers totaled 47 points in voting, with five first-place votes. Close behind was LIU with a total of 44 points, including three first place votes. Third place is where we start to see a noticeable gap in the voting as Stonehill came in third, receiving 37 total points. 

Outside the top three is Franklin Pierce in fourth place (27), Saint Anselm in fifth place (23), Assumption in sixth place (22), Post in seventh place (16), and Saint Michael's rounded out the rankings in eighth place (8). 

Head coach Thomas O'Malley enters his 23rd season at the helm with a roster loaded with talent. Leading goal scorers from the 2024-25 season, Isabella Chaput and Ella Holm, return to anchor the offense, while senior defender Olivia LaRoche is poised for another great season. 
 
2025-2026 NEWHA Women's Ice Hockey Preseason Coaches' Poll
1.Sacred Heart: 47 (5)
2. LIU: 44 (3)
3. Stonehill: 37 
4. Franklin Pierce: 27
5. Saint Anselm: 23
6. Assumption: 22
7. Post: 16
8. Saint Michael's: 8