Do the Wisconsin Badgers have what it takes for an NCAA repeat?

The Wisconsin Badgers were 2023 NCAA national champion. They lost a line of key players, but have the fire power to challenge for another title. Can they do it?

The Wisconsin Badgers beat the reigning Ohio State Buckeyes for an NCAA national championship in 2023. Now, the Badgers begin their own title defence...and the Buckeyes look primed to attempt to reclaim the crown.

Does the Wisconsin Badgers women's hockey team have what it takes to repeat?

The team lost starting goalie Cami Kronish (AIK, SDHL), forwards Sophie Shirley (Boston, PHF), and Jesse Compher as well as defenders Nicole LaMantia, and Natalie Buchbinder. It's a full line of impact players.

The Badgers however, are still loaded with talent, including the best blueliner in the world, Caroline Harvey, who was the IIHF best defender and leading scorer at the World Championships, and USA Hockey's Player of the Year. Vivian Jungels will also see heavy minutes on the blueliner, as will Chayla Edwards who is back for a fifth year.

Up front, the Badgers have a unique mix of veteran talent, and young players who will have the chance to step into the spotlight. USA national team members Britta Curl,  Lacey Eden are both set to return, as is standout Casey O'Brien while former U-18 national team members Laila Edwards, Kirsten Simms, and Claire Enright will look to take advantage of added opportunities.  Former Canadian U-18 national team players Maddie Wheeler and Sarah Wozniewicz have a similar opportnity.

In net, it will be up to Jane Gervais to take over the crease.

Among the incoming rookies, Laney Potter has a legitimate chance to contribute immediately on the blueline. She's big, mobile, and moves the puck effectively coming from USA's national program and the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers. She's joined by USA U-18 forwards Bella Vasseur and Cassie Hall and netminder Ava McNaughton, as well as Minnesota State transfer Anna Wilgren.

The pieces are in place to challenge. Will they repeat? The Wisconsin Badgers women's hockey team will begin that quest October 13-15 when the play a series against Minnesota State to open their WCHA conference play.