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Who might join the Boston Fleet’s leadership group this season?
The Boston Fleet must add two alternate captains for the 2026‑27 season after Alina Müller and Jamie Lee Rattray departed. The IX Sports outlines three contenders: veteran forward Susanna Tapadi, who leads the Fleet with 49 points in 86 games and brings Finnish ringette captain experience; 34‑year‑old Jill Saulnier, a seasoned pro with CWHL, PWHPA and Canada pedigree already respected as a leader; and 23‑year‑old Haley Winn, a decorated World‑Championship and Olympic star with strong ties to coach François Méthot, though she may be too young for the role now. The piece weighs experience, on‑ice performance, and team dynamics to gauge who will earn the “A” letters.
How transfer Dani Carnegie has impressed early at Iowa
Transfer guard Dani Carnegie makes an immediate splash for Iowa, dropping 30 points, five assists and zero turnovers in 22 minutes of an exhibition win 124-67 over Division II Maryville. Coach Jan Jensen praises her playmaking and adaptability, noting Carnegie’s recent 31‑point, 13‑rebound double‑double against Oklahoma State. The junior previously averaged 17.8 points at Georgia and earned first‑team All‑SEC honors before entering the portal. Drawn to Jan Jensen’s openness and the presence of former Georgia Tech assistant LaSondra Barrett, Carnegie sees Iowa as a fresh start where her skill set can thrive.
Q&A: Sceptres’ Ella Shelton using board games, fun and competition to prep for new season
Defender Ella Shelton, a 2024 First Team All-Star, reveals how she’s mixing board games, Spike Ball and focused off‑ice drills to shape the Toronto Sceptres’ new identity for the 2026‑27 season. She recounts a fun Team Canada camp in Québec City, spontaneous dinner gatherings, and her fiancé‑coached ice sessions that helped her block a career‑high 55 shots last year despite a dip to seven points. Shelton also shares first impressions of new head coach Pascal, describing his straight‑shooting style as a fresh influence on the squad. She expects the upcoming training camp to blend competition and camaraderie as the Sceptres gear up for a tougher season.
2026 Northern Super League playoff preview
The NSL playoffs kick off Oct. 31 with four teams—Vancouver Rise, Montréal Roses, Ottawa Rapid, and AFC Toronto—competing in two‑leg aggregate semifinals before a single‑game final on Nov. 14 in Ottawa. Reigning champs Vancouver Rise clinched the last spot after a late‑season surge and will face the Supporters’ Shield winners Montréal Roses, who have won every game since replacing coach Robert Rositoiu. Ottawa Rapid, second‑place finishers with the league’s highest goal tally, host AFC Toronto, a goal‑rich side that fell short of the standings despite a +14 differential. Golden Boot winner Jessica De Filippo leads the Rise’s attack, while the Roses aim to defend their top‑seed title and the Diana B. Matheson Cup.
Fresh off a senior national team appearance, Lisa Jönsson continues the legacy of outstanding netminders on Huntington Ave.
Lisa Jönsson, the 22‑year‑old Swedish netminder who joined Northeastern in fall 2024, just earned her first senior Sweden cap, posting a 5‑0 shutout with 15 saves against Switzerland. Back in Boston, she recorded a 0.970 save percentage in her first four games, including a 26‑save shutout of Providence and a 52‑save effort versus No. 4 Quinnipiac. Her sophomore season ended with a .939 SV% and seven shutouts, and she was honored as the 2026 Elite Scholar Athlete and named an assistant captain for 2026‑27. Jönsson’s rapid rise adds to Northeastern’s legacy of elite goaltenders.
2026-27 Big 12 preview
The IX Sports preview breaks down the 2026‑27 Big 12 women’s basketball season, noting a league still defined by deep talent and roster trends. Coaches balance transfers, freshmen, and international players, with Oklahoma State emerging as a top contender after a massive nine‑player transfer haul that includes All‑American center Audi Crooks and guard Liv McGill. The Cowboys finished 24‑10 overall last season and aim to improve on a schedule that pits them against South Dakota State, Washington and South Carolina before the 18‑game conference slate. The preseason coaches’ poll (Oct. 8) lists Oklahoma State, TCU, Baylor and West Virginia as first‑place vote leaders, reflecting the Big 12’s record‑tying eight NCAA Tournament bids in 2025‑26.
Peyton Anderson’s unconventional path to the PWHL
Minnesota Frost forward Peyton Anderson takes an unconventional route to the PWHL, pausing her hockey career after a stellar five‑year run at Northeastern to work in marketing and coach youth players during the 2024‑25 season. The Colorado native, only the league’s second player from the state, used the break to refine her game, earn a camp invite and secure a roster spot. At Northeastern she helped the Huskies win four Hockey East regular‑season titles, four playoff crowns and reach the 2021 NCAA final, finishing her college career as a second‑team All‑Star with 15 goals and 28 points in 39 games. Her story highlights a rare, deliberate year off before turning pro.
How a team meeting, flat spacing and a defensive switch evened up the WNBA Finals
In Game 6 of the 2026 WNBA Finals, Atlanta Dream coach Karl Smesko sparks a decisive turnaround, forcing a historic Game 7 against the Golden State Valkyries. After a team meeting, the Dream revamps its offense with flatter spacing and higher activity, cutting down turnovers and improving shot quality. Relying on Jordin Canada’s leadership and Rhyne Howard’s mid‑range fire, they also tweak defense, splitting Gabby Williams’ assignments between Canada and Allisha Gray and assigning Howard to Tiffany Hayes. The adjustments pay off as Atlanta wins 80‑69, setting up the series’ first ever Game 7.
How Denver has unlocked the best version of Janine Sonis
In her 11th pro season, Janine Sonis has reinvented herself as a Denver Summit fullback, turning a modest forward record into a breakout offensive force. In 2026 she racks up 20 goal contributions (12 goals, 8 assists) in 28 games – the third‑most in the NWSL and a three‑fold jump from her first six seasons. Sonis credits the freedom under coach Nick Cushing, her forward instincts, and past stints at Manchester City and Racing Louisville for mastering the modern, attack‑heavy fullback role. Her performance is reshaping expectations for defenders in women’s soccer.
PWHL increases rosters to 24 players & makes additional changes
The PWHL announced that active rosters will grow from 23 to 24 players per team, adding 12 full‑time spots league‑wide, while eliminating the three‑player reserve pool for 2026‑27. A new one‑game emergency contract will replace reserves. Minimum salaries jump to $42,000—13% above the scheduled increase—and will rise to $52,500 by 2030‑31, though only nine players per team can earn the minimum. The changes, agreed with the PWHLPA, aim to boost player earnings but spark debate over the loss of reserve compensation.
Why the Golden State Valkyries bemoaned their lack of ball pressure in Game 6 loss
Coach Natalie Nakase and forward Gabby Williams blame the Golden State Valkyries' Game 6 loss (80-69) to the Atlanta Dream on a lack of ball pressure. Atlanta exploded for 32 points in the first quarter, hitting 6-for-8 from three—a franchise record—thanks to Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard. The Valkyries never matched their usual aggressive defense, allowing a 19-5 opening run and failing to disrupt the Dream’s rhythm. Nakase vows to tighten pressure in Game 7, highlighting Laeticia Amihere’s increased defensive intensity. The Dream’s 70‑plus point wins have defined the series, putting the Valkyries on the brink of a historic Game 7.
The IX Sports Podcast Hockey Edition: The importance of data-driven analysis in hockey featuring Alison Lukan
In the latest IX Sports Podcast Hockey Edition (Oct. 29, 2026), host Maya Smith talks with Emmy‑winning Seattle Kraken and Seattle Torrent broadcaster Alison Lukan about the growing role of analytics in women’s hockey. The episode opens with a roundup of recent injury news, including Corinne Schroeder leaving the PWHL San Jose camp in a wheelchair. Lukan explains how data‑driven analysis helped her earn credibility in a male‑dominated field and how she now uses tools like The Ice Garden and PWHL stats to shape commentary. Listeners get insight into Lukan’s career path and how analytics are shaping the sport’s future.
Croix Bethune secures ‘legendary’ Current season after breaking assist record
Kansas City Current midfielder Croix Bethune shatters the NWSL single‑season assist record with her 11th assist in the 2‑1 victory over her former club, the Washington Spirit, on Oct. 27 at a sold‑out CPKC Stadium. The record, previously held by Tobin Heath (10 in 2016), comes as Bethune returns from a hip issue and a series of injuries that stalled her earlier attempts. Coach Chris Armas praised her team‑first play, while Bethune reflected on manifesting the goal and the significance of breaking the mark against the Spirit. The win also clinches a playoff spot for the Current.
A look at the Boston Fleet’s 2026 training camp roster
The Boston Fleet enter PWHL training camp with 19 contracted players and seven roster spots left, three of which are reserves. Twelve forwards, six defenders, and two goalies are under contract, and the team will likely add three to four forwards, two to three defenders, and at least one more goalie. Key returning stars include forwards Loren Gabel, Taylor House, and defenders Megan Keller and Rookie of the Year Haley Winn, while new signings feature draft picks Grace Dwyer (10th overall) and Leah Stecker (27th overall). Goaltending headliner Aerin Frankel returns alongside Amanda Thiele, who earned a solid playoff start last season. Unsigned draft forwards Jenna Goodwin and Jaden Bogden join camp hoping to earn contracts.
Perth Lynx find their feet after rollercoaster WNBL offseason
Perth Lynx open WNBL27 with a home win over Townsville Fire, snapping a 1‑4 Grand Final record from last season. Rookie guard Georgia Amoore shines, scoring 13 points and dishing seven assists while shooting 40% from three on debut. Coach Ryan Petrik praises her elite point‑guard talent amid a roster overhaul that saw veterans Ally Wilson, Amy Atwell and Han Xu depart. New signings Alex Ciabattoni and Steph Gorman highlight a shift to a combo‑guard, positionless style. Despite a chaotic offseason—late contract signings and last‑minute replacements—the club’s front office and coaching staff feel the rebuild is progressing positively.
The IX Sports Podcast Basketball Edition: Why is the WNBA Playing a potential Finals clincher at 12:30 p.m. on a Thursday?
On the IX Sports Podcast Basketball Edition, hosts Jackie Powell and Howard Megdal explain why Game 6 of the 2026 WNBA Finals is slated for 12:30 p.m. ET Thursday in Atlanta. The slot results from a scheduling clash at State Farm Arena, which is primarily the NBA Hawks’ home. The Hawks agreed to shift their Oct. 29 night game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the Cavaliers’ owners—who also back the upcoming WNBA Cleveland Sirens—could not move. The decision, driven by NBA-level logistics, sparked debate, and the hosts also highlight star Kiah Stokes’ impact in the series.
Theresa Schafzahl is ready for a bigger role in her first full season with the Seattle Torrent
Seattle Torrent forward Theresa Schafzahl, 26, enters her first full season after a March 16 trade from Boston for Jessie Eldridge. She re‑signed through 2027‑28 and returns to training camp on Nov. 18, hoping to expand her role following 11 games, 4 goals and 11 assists in 2025‑26. Schafzahl, who scored Boston’s inaugural franchise goal, enjoyed a home offseason in Austria and praised Climate Pledge Arena’s atmosphere. Paired with Danielle Serdachny and centering Alex Carpenter, she posted 8 points in a March 25 win over New York. With new head coach Christine Bumstead and a revamped roster, Schafzahl says the Torrent’s chemistry and potential fuel her commitment to Seattle.
Theresa Schafzahl is ready for a bigger role in her first full season with the Seattle Torrent
Seattle Torrent forward Theresa Schafzahl is gearing up for a larger role in her first full season after returning from an Austrian offseason. Acquired from the Boston Fleet on March 16 in a trade for Jessie Eldridge, the 26‑year‑old logged 4 goals and 11 assists in 2025‑26 and re‑signed through 2027‑28. She enjoyed a March 25 win over New York, contributing on a line with Alex Carpenter and Danielle Serdachny, and praised the team’s atmosphere at Climate Pledge Arena. Schafzahl cites the supportive locker room, new coaching staff, and the Torrent’s potential as reasons to stay and help the club bounce back after key departures.
2026-27 Bracketology: Our first 76-team field
The IX Sports breaks down the inaugural 76‑team NCAA women’s tournament field for 2026‑27, unveiling a full preseason bracket with seedings, conference bids and last‑four byes. South Carolina, UConn and USC emerge as the top three contenders, while mid‑majors like Harvard and Davidson hover on the bubble. The piece details conference allocations (Big Ten 13, Big 12 12, SEC 10, ACC 9, Pac‑12 3, BIG EAST 2, Ivy 2) and notes procedural seed swaps for Minnesota, Oklahoma State, Oregon and NC State. A methodology section explains the author’s approach to selecting small‑conference autos and projecting the selection committee’s priorities.
What will PWHL San Jose’s identity be? Here’s what its players think
During PWHL San Jose Day at SAP Center on Oct. 10, four inaugural players—Abbey Levy, Rory Guilday, Sloane Matthews, and Brook Bryant—revealed a shared vision for the new franchise: a youthful, high‑energy identity. With an average age of 24.6, the squad is the youngest in the league and plans to rely on speed, skill, and relentless work ethic, while coach‑GM Troy Ryan brings veteran leadership. Players highlighted camaraderie, a willingness to learn, and a hard‑to‑play‑against, structured team style as they gear up for the upcoming season.
2026-27 Atlantic 10 preview
The Atlantic 10 enters 2026-27 in flux, with five new head coaches and only seven of last season’s 18 All‑Conference players returning—none from the first team. Seven squads will see less than half their minutes and eight will return under half their points. Coach Rebecca Tillett (Saint Louis) stresses the league’s depth, noting every team is competitive. The preview breaks down each program, starting with Davidson (21‑12 record, 62% minutes returning, 55% points returning) and highlights key returners like Katie Donovan, who led Division I in 3‑point %. The article also outlines demanding non‑conference matchups and the A‑10’s recent parity, with six different champions in six years. Readers get a detailed roster, coaching changes, and schedule outlook for every A‑10 school.
Emma Maltais is ready for a new challenge with the Montréal Victoire
Emma Maltais steps up to a fresh challenge after signing with the Montréal Victoire in the summer free‑agency market, leaving the Toronto Sceptres where she posted 19 points in 24 games as a rookie before a dip in production. In part two of her interview, Maltais talks about her new teammates—especially Abby Roque and fellow free‑agent Jessie Eldridge—her excitement to blend with one of the league’s most lethal forward lines, and her upcoming role on Team Canada at the November World Championships alongside Victoire stars Laura Stacey, Kati Tabin and Ann‑Renée Desbiens. She also highlights her off‑ice work running summer hockey camps in Burlington, Ontario and Saguenay, Québec, aiming to inspire the next generation of players.
Scarlett Camberos, Mexican women’s soccer shine at Ballon d’Or
Club América captain Scarlett Camberos makes history as the first Mexican woman nominated for the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, finishing 21st in voting. Her nomination coincides with América being the only non‑European club on the Club of the Year shortlist, though Barcelona wins the award. Camberos’ journey—from being undrafted in the NWSL, enduring harassment, and returning to lead América to a domestic treble (Clausura, Campeón de Campeonas, and Concacaf W Champions Cup)—highlights the rise of Mexican women’s soccer. Fellow Mexican striker Charlyn Corral also garners international recognition, winning the Gerd Müller Trophy for 43 goals and 11 assists.
Mercyhurst’s youngest players are leading the way
Mercyhurst’s scoring slump—just 20 goals in ten games and a .058 shooting percentage—forces the Lakers to lean on freshmen. Russian rookie Mariia Polozkova leads the team with five goals and a 13.9% shooting rate, while fellow freshman Halle Duchene tops the points chart with nine and has already notched six assists. Both earned AHA Rookie of the Week honors as their early chemistry produces eight of the Lakers’ 20 goals. Polozkova’s power shot, honed in the ZhHL and U19 league, and Duchene’s precise playmaking, honed in Saskatchewan’s U18 AAA, could sustain the offense the team has lost with the departure of veterans like Julia Schalin and Sophie McKinley.
2026-27 MEAC preview
The IX Sports preview outlines the 2026‑27 MEAC women's basketball landscape, where Howard returns as preseason favorite after a record‑setting 26‑8 season, a No. 14 NCAA seed and a historic home unbeaten run. Guard Zoe Stewart leads with 12.7 ppg, and Coach Ty Grace stresses a relentless, no‑mercy culture. Norfolk State remains Howard’s chief rival, with both teams predicted to clash in the conference tournament for the sixth straight year. Upset‑ready challengers include UMES (third in the coaches’ poll, beating both powerhouses last season), Coppin State (fourth, three semifinal runs), and aspiring programs at Morgan State, North Carolina Central, Delaware State and South Carolina State. The preview highlights the shifting dynamics and the battle to dethrone the two‑team dominance.
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