BOCA RATON, Fla. - The Lynn University women's lacrosse team returns to the field in 2026 with a veteran roster, proven postseason success, and growing national recognition, positioning the Fighting Knights for another strong campaign under head coach Mindy Richmond, who enters her sixth season at the helm.

Lynn enters the season ranked 11th in the IWLCA Division II Preseason Poll after finishing 15–5 last spring and advancing to the NCAA Tournament Round of 16. The Fighting Knights have firmly established themselves as a national contender, winning 28 games over the last two seasons while remaining a fixture in the national rankings.

"At this point we've established ourselves as a national competitor," said Richmond. "There's consistency in our program now, and that's something coaches across the country are recognizing. But preseason rankings don't win games - we still have a lot to prove."

Lynn returns a strong core on both ends of the field, headlined by senior midfielder Rebecca Clark. Clark is coming off a dominant 2025 season in which she recorded 92 points on 55 goals and 37 assists, while also leading the team in ground balls and draw controls. Her competitiveness and two-way play continue to drive the Fighting Knights' tempo and intensity.

"Becca is a fearless competitor," Richmond said. "She raises the level of everyone around her. She's one of the best all-around players in Division II, and her intensity sets the tone every day."

Defensively, Lynn brings back one of the most experienced and cohesive units in the conference, led by senior Emily Solomon. A physical presence and vocal leader, Solomon anchors a defense that returns nearly its entire rotation from last season.

"Emily is the full package," said Richmond. "She's strong, fast, competitive, and she's our voice on the field. I have complete confidence in our defense - they're a well-oiled machine."

Offensively, Lynn brought back in two veteran attackers: Danielle Farinas, a left-handed attacker who rejoins the program after completing nursing school, and Hannah Exley, who elected to use an additional year of eligibility. Both bring experience, familiarity, and leadership to a developing attack unit.

The Fighting Knights also welcome a talented freshman class expected to make an immediate impact. Midfielder Zoe Stewart provides speed and versatility in the midfield rotation, while left-handed attacker Madison Smith is projected to earn a starting role early in her collegiate career.

"(Smith) is going to be on the field for us," Richmond said. "She's ready. Zoe (Stewart) gives us another dynamic option in the midfield, and we're excited about what both can bring."

On the defensive side, freshmen Kaya Langford and Isabella Silliman add athleticism and depth, with both expected to see meaningful minutes as the season progresses.

In goal, Lynn features a competitive battle between sophomores Ava Ceglia and Holland Swope. Ceglia is coming off a strong freshman season while appearing in all 20 games and making 18 starts and emerging as one of the top goalkeepers in the SSC in 2025. The competition is expected to elevate play at the position as conference play approaches.

Lynn opens the 2026 season facing a challenging Sunshine State Conference slate, as the league once again features nationally ranked and postseason-tested programs. With little margin for error on any given night, the Fighting Knights will be tested throughout conference play as they look to navigate one of Division II's most competitive conferences while positioning themselves for postseason success.
 

"The SSC is a battle every game," said Richmond. "We have the pieces. The question is putting it all together and bringing the right mentality every night. I think we have what it takes to be where we were last year. Our goal is to compete for a conference championship and get back to nationals."
 

The Fighting Knights open the 2026 season with a nonconference matchup against Florida Southern on the road on Friday, Feb. 13 at 5:00 p.m.