When you're the reigning NCAA national champions, it's easy to attract top talent, and the University of Wisconsin Badgers have done just that yet again.
Last year, Wisconsin added budding stars like Emma Venusio, Maggie Scannell, and Finley McCarthy, and they're set to do it again for 2025-26.
After winning the 2025 NCAA national title in dramatic fashion, Wisconsin is set to say goodbye to Patty Kazmaier winner Casey O'Brien who has declared for the PWHL Draft. O'Brien set Wisconsin's all-time scoring record this season passing Hilary Knight in the process. They'll also lose veteran Sarah Wozniewicz.
Despite their losses, Wisconsin's incoming recruiting class is strong enough to fill the gaps, and could again push them over the top.
Here's a look at Wisconsin's women's hockey recruiting class for 2025-26.
Adela Šapovalivová - MoDo
A top line forward for Czechia's senior national team, Šapovalivová is quick, skilled, and despite her small frame, she's unafraid of engaging physically. Dropped into the elite group Wisconsin boasts up front, Šapovalivová should be able to contribute immediately as one of the best NCAA players in the nation. She recorded 29 points in 32 games last season for MoDo
Charlotte Pieckenhagen - Mississauga Hurricanes
Pieckenhagen is already 19 and uses her 5-foot-10 frame to her advantage. This season she scored 39 goals and 61 points in only 37 games in the OWHL. She won gold as a member of Canada's U-18 national team and has a power forward style.
Rhyah Stewart - Cape Breton West Islanders
Stewart could someday be Canada's goalie of the future. It's a big statement, but not a stretch. Stewart has starred for Canada at the U-18 World Championships, played 'AAA' boys hockey her entire minor hockey career, and this year posted good numbers playing men's Junior A hockey in Nova Scotia. She even appeared in a preseason game for the QMJHL's Cape Breton Screaming Eagles. While it's still Ava McNaughton's crease, Stewart will be pushing hard.
Other 2025-26 Wisconsin Badgers Recruits: Mackenzie Jones (Defender, Andover High), Nicole Gorbatenko (Forward, Chicago Mission), Rachel Gorbatenko (Defender, Chicago Mission)