Kutztown University Announces 2026 Women's Lacrosse Roster

Kutztown University will have 31 student-athletes representing its women's lacrosse program for the 2026 season.

Read the full season preview.

Under head coach Kristen Nicholson, the Kutztown University women's lacrosse program has undergone a complete transformation. In just four seasons, the Golden Bears have produced the most winning seasons in program history, reached the PSAC Championship game for the first time in 40 years, earned back-to-back NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, and cracked the IWLCA national rankings for the first time ever. Now entering her fifth year at the helm, Nicholson and the No. 20 Golden Bears are intent on continuing that upward climb in 2026.

"This is a determined, focused and hungry team heading into the 2026 season," Nicholson said. "We're building on past success with a strong core of returning players and some new faces ready to help us take the next step. We're excited to get back out there and compete."

Kutztown finished the 2025 season ranked No. 23 nationally with a 9-8 overall record, including a 6-6 mark in PSAC play. Two of the Golden Bears' nine victories came against nationally ranked opponents, while seven were earned at Keystone Field. KU's strength of schedule was evident throughout the season, as six of its eight losses came against ranked competition.

That challenge continues in 2026. The Golden Bears are slated to face five nationally ranked opponents this spring, including West Chester (No. 5), Pace (No. 7), East Stroudsburg (No. 13), Saint Anselm (No. 22) and Bentley (No. 23). Kutztown will also open the season against IUP, which received votes in the 2026 IWLCA Preseason Poll.

Kutztown was picked third in the PSAC East Preseason Poll and No. 20 nationally in the IWLCA Poll. The Golden Bears open the 2026 regular season at home Saturday, Feb. 21, hosting PSAC West opponent IUP at Keystone Field. The opening draw is set for 2 p.m.