FOREST, Va. -- The University of Lynchburg field hockey squad was selected first in the 2026 ODAC preseason poll, the league office announced Aug. 24.

The Hornets enter their third season with Jenni Releford at the helm, fresh off an ODAC championship run in 2025. Lynchburg captured the title in convincing fashion with a 5-1 victory over Shenandoah in the ODAC championship game, securing the 23rd conference crown in program history. After making their eighth consecutive conference championship appearance, the Hornets will look to win back-to-back titles for the first time since repeating in the spring of 2021.

Just behind Lynchburg in the preseason poll was Washington and Lee, who fell to Shenandoah, 4-3, in overtime in last season's semifinal. The Generals received two first-place votes and finished just seven points behind Lynchburg for the top spot. Shenandoah rounded out the top three with 52 points, followed by Randolph-Macon and Bridgewater to complete the top five.

The Hornets concluded last season in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, falling to Christopher Newport, 2-1, in an overtime thriller. This season, Lynchburg returns a wealth of talent while welcoming a host of newcomers expected to make an immediate impact.

Three-time All-American Khanyisile Mzizi and First Team All-Region honoree Allie Freeman headline the group of returning talent. Several other returning Hornets are also poised to take on increased roles following the departure of six of the team's eight All-ODAC selections from last season.

The 2026 roster welcomes eight newcomers, including six freshmen and two junior transfers. Ellie Bisch joins the program from Central Michigan, while Sydney Cappallo comes to Lynchburg from Endicott.

Lynchburg opens its season Sept. 1 against Johns Hopkins in Winchester, Va., beginning a stretch of three games at Shenandoah during the opening week of action. The Hornets will make their home debut Sept. 26 against Rowan.

ODAC FIELD HOCKEY PRESEAON POLL

1. University of Lynchburg (7)    63 pts.

2. Washington and Lee University (2)    56 pts.

3. Shenandoah University    52 pts.

4. Randolph-Macon College    41 pts.

5. Bridgewater College    36 pts.

6. Roanoke College    29 pts.

7. Batten University    23 pts.

8. Sweet Briar College    13 pts.

9. EMU    11 pts.

   Visit Lynchburg athletics' home online, LynchburgSports.com, anytime for up-to-the-minute news on all Hornets sports and coverage from the Lynchburg Hornets Sports Network.

   Sign up here to receive Lynchburg Sports news in your email inbox. 

   Give Lynchburg Sports a like on Facebook, and follow Lynchburg athletics on Instagram and X.

   --LYN--