2026 Women’s Ice Hockey Championship: Bracket, Schedule, Scores
The 2026 Women’s Ice Hockey Championship is fast approaching, with exciting matches planned throughout March. The tournament’s regional finals will kick off on Saturday, March 14. Following the finals, the Women’s Frozen Four will take place from March 20 to 22 at Pegula Ice Arena, University Park, Pennsylvania.
Championship Schedule and Teams
The complete championship bracket was unveiled during a selection show on March 8, where Ohio State secured the No. 1 seed. In total, five conferences earned automatic bids, while six teams were chosen as at-large selections. The schedule for crucial matches is as follows:
- March 20 (Friday): Semifinals
- March 22 (Sunday): Final
Historical Context
Wisconsin is entering the championship as the defending national champion, having triumphed over Ohio State 4-3 in overtime during the 2025 final. This match marked the third consecutive year that these two teams faced each other in the championship.
Championship History
The following table summarizes the history of recent Women’s Ice Hockey Championships:
| Year | Champion (Record) | Score | Runner-Up | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 due to Covid-19 |
As the tournament approaches, excitement continues to build among fans and teams alike. The journey for the 2026 Women’s Ice Hockey Championship promises to deliver thrilling action for all involved.
