2026 NC Women’s Ice Hockey Championship: Bracket, Schedule, and Scores
The 2026 National Collegiate Women’s Ice Hockey Championship is set to take place with regional matches scheduled from March 12 to March 15. Following the regionals, the Women’s Frozen Four will occur at Pegula Ice Arena in University Park, Pennsylvania, from March 20 to March 22. This championship tournament, entering its 25th edition, will feature 11 qualifying teams.
Championship Bracket and Schedule
The selection show announcing the participating teams took place on March 8 at 11:30 a.m. on ESPNU. Ohio State secured the No. 1 seed, with five conferences earning automatic bids. The remaining six teams were chosen at-large to round out the tournament field.
2026 Championship Schedule
- Regional Semifinals: March 12-13
- Regional Finals: March 14-15
- Women’s Frozen Four: March 20-22
- Selection Show: March 8, 11:30 a.m. on ESPNU
Historical Context
Wisconsin enters the tournament as the defending champion, having triumphed over Ohio State with a score of 4-3 in overtime during the 2025 final. This matchup marked the third consecutive year both teams met for the championship title.
Championship History at a Glance
| Year | Champion | Record | Score | Runner-Up | Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Wisconsin | 38-1-2 | 4-3 (OT) | Ohio State | Minneapolis, MN |
| 2024 | Ohio State | 36-4-0 | 1-0 | Wisconsin | Durham, NH |
| 2023 | Wisconsin | 29-10-2 | 1-0 | Ohio State | Duluth, MN |
| 2022 | Ohio State | 32-6-0 | 3-2 | Minnesota Duluth | University Park, PA |
| 2021 | Wisconsin | 17-3-1 | 2-1 (OT) | Northeastern | Erie, PA |
| 2020 | Canceled | – | – | – | – |
| 2019 | Wisconsin | 35-4-2 | 2-0 | Minnesota | Hamden, CT |
| 2018 | Clarkson | 36-4-1 | 2-1 (OT) | Colgate | Minneapolis, MN |
The upcoming championship promises excitement as teams vie for the coveted title. Fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and memorable performances throughout the tournament.
