WINONA, Minn. — The first practice of the 2026-27 women's hockey season is officially underway! The Cardinals have hit the ice and are gearing up for their first competition in just over a week.

First-year head coach Emily Bauer, assisted by Jessica Ptachick, is at the helm.

"It has been really fun to get to know our group and see their excitement for starting the season," said Bauer. "I look forward to watching them learn and grow throughout the season in their knowledge and confidence, and competing at a high level."

The Cardinals will travel for an exhibition at the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Friday, Oct. 23, before hosting the University of Dubuque on Saturday, Oct. 24, for the program's annual Ice Breaker. A special day of hockey, free admission, games, and more!

The road ahead will be tough; the team officially starts the season on Friday, Oct. 30, traveling to three-time national champions and No.1-ranked UW-River Falls before hosting them the following day.

After two weekends of nonconference, the team will open conference play on Friday, Nov. 20, traveling to Augsburg. They will host Hamline and St. Catherine for their lone December series before their winter break.

The team will resume conference action on Friday, Jan. 15, traveling to Concordia (MN) for two.
The program's senior day is set for Saturday, Feb. 6, when they face St. Scholastica before rounding out the season at St. Olaf on Feb. 20.

The MIAC women's hockey playoffs are set for Thursday, Feb. 25 through Thursday, Mar. 4.

Expectations are for the team to be as competitive as possible.

"I think they have certainly set some goals for themselves and for what they want to accomplish this season as a team."

"I also have contributed my high expectations for their effort and for our culture early on." 

The Cardinals return All-Conference skaters Celia Midtbo and Reese Heitzman to the roster, along with key defensive players.

"I believe we have a great group of people and hockey players in our locker room who are hungry to work their way back up in the MIAC."

Bauer is excited about the group she gets to coach this season.