Wallenpaupack Area High School field hockey is ready for the 2026 season

The Wallenpaupack Area High School field hockey team is more than ready for the 2026 season.

The Buckhorns are scheduled to host Lake Lehman on Sept. 16.

“Our biggest goal is to continue growing and becoming stronger as a team,’’ Wallenpaupack Area head coach Rebecca Newcomer said. “We are moving up from Division II to Division I, so there will definitely be challenges and difficult games ahead of us.

“I want us to compete, but I also want us to learn how to handle adversity, stay mentally strong and continue improving throughout the season. If we can become stronger mentally and physically and continue growing in our game, I will consider that a successful season.’’

Key returning varsity tested student athletes include Alyssa Galasso (forward, senior), Sophie Fontano (forward, senior), Addison Shiffler (defense, junior), Ava Hoffmann (defense, junior), Kaylee Newcomer (defense/midfield, sophomore) and Annie James (midfield, sophomore).

“We also have other returning players who are moving up from JV or had some varsity playing time last year, including Ava Caruso, Sarah Cardiello, Irene Frangos, Carly Wolff, Rylee Egli and Audrey Schwartz,’’ Coach Newcomer said. “We have a large group of newcomers who I am excited to see develop throughout the season. Our newcomers include Charlotte Regenski, Grace Albion, Emma Eckoff, Emma Burdzy, Sophie Ormanzhi, Keilee Gumble, Ciara Fitzpatrick, Cheyenne Kaisen and Avery Schmitt.’’

Leadership is crucial to the success of the Buckhorns this year.

“I will be looking heavily to Ava Hoffmann, Ava Caruso, Sophie Fontano and Alyssa Galasso as leaders this season, these four are our captains,’’ Coach Newcoemr said. “I also have high hopes that other players will find their voices and lead both on and off the field, including Addison Shiffler, Annie James and Kaylee Newcomer.

“Leadership for me is about much more than being the loudest player or having a title. I want our leaders to lead through their work ethic, their attitude, their communication and the way they respond when things don’t go their way.’’

The Buckhorns finished with a very solid overall record of 15-5 in 2025.

“This season is a rebuilding year but I truly see this season as a new beginning and a huge opportunity for growth,’’ Coach Newcomer said. “Moving up to Division I while replacing several key players is certainly a transition, but I believe this group is up for the challenge. We have athletes who are eager to learn, compete and prove themselves. I don’t want to put a ceiling on what this team can accomplish. We are going to have to earn everything this season, and I think that is going to make us better. I would have to say Crestwood is a team to beat and I also consider Honesdale one of the Division favorites.

“The biggest thing I would want people to know about this team is that we are building something based on culture. Our message is: Respect, Resilience and Relentlessness. I want these girls to understand that field hockey is about much more than the scoreboard. The ability to handle adversity, continue working when things get difficult, respect your teammates and opponents and believe in yourself are lessons that will stay with them long after their playing careers are over.’’