NCAA Women's Lacrosse: Albany Great Danes Aim to Build on Recent Success

Head coach Katie Thomson looks to lead the team to another strong season after winning the America East title and making the NCAA Tournament in 2025.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The University at Albany women's lacrosse team enters the 2026 season with high expectations after winning the America East conference title and making the NCAA Tournament in 2025. Head coach Katie Thomson is excited about the experienced roster and the challenging schedule that features several nationally ranked opponents as well as in-state rivals.

Why it matters

The Albany Great Danes have emerged as a consistent power in women's lacrosse, winning four America East titles in recent years. Their success has helped raise the profile of the program and the sport in the region. Another strong season could further cement Albany's status as an elite program and attract more attention and resources to the team.

The details

The Great Danes will look to build on their 2025 campaign that saw them win the America East championship and advance to the NCAA Tournament, where they faced off against Yale. This year's schedule features a demanding slate of nationally ranked opponents as well as local rivals, providing a tough test for the experienced Albany roster.

  • The 2026 season for the University at Albany women's lacrosse team begins on Tuesday, February 11.
  • In 2025, the Great Danes won their fourth America East title and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.

The players

Katie Thomson

The head coach of the University at Albany women's lacrosse team, leading the program to consistent success in recent years.

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What they’re saying

“We're really excited for this group. Excited to get started [Tuesday]. A lot of excitement. We bring back a lot of experience on [...]”

— Katie Thomson, Head Coach (oneidadispatch.com)

The takeaway

The Albany Great Danes women's lacrosse team has established itself as a consistent contender in the America East conference and on the national stage. With an experienced roster and a challenging schedule, the team is poised to build on its recent success and potentially make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.