Wisconsin Badgers Secure Back-to-Back NCAA Women's Hockey Championships

On March 22, 2026, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers triumphed over the Ohio State Buckeyes with a score of 3-2 in the NCAA Women's Frozen Four championship game held at Pegula Ice Arena in University Park, Pennsylvania. This victory marks Wisconsin's ninth national championship title, solidifying their status as the most successful program in NCAA women's hockey history. The Badgers have now won four of the last six championships, with the 2020 tournament canceled due to COVID-19.

University of Wisconsin Repeats as Champions in NCAA Women’s Hockey – Fikkle FameWisconsin Badgers win back-to-back national championshipsMark Johnson called the win and the season surreal as Wisconsin claims 9th titleAnother Banner Night for Badgers

Wisconsin took an early lead with goals from Kelly Gorbatenko and Laney Potter in the first period, establishing a 2-0 advantage. However, Ohio State responded in the third period with two quick goals from Kassidy Carmichael and Jocelyn Amos, tying the game at 2-2. The momentum shifted again when Claire Enright scored the decisive goal with 6:18 left in the game, capitalizing on a scramble in front of the net. Wisconsin's goaltender, Ava McNaughton, played a crucial role, making 34 saves and earning the title of Most Outstanding Player of the tournament.

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This championship match was the fourth consecutive meeting between Wisconsin and Ohio State in the national title game, with Wisconsin winning three of those encounters. The rivalry has intensified as both teams compete in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), further fueling their competitive spirit. Wisconsin's recent victories in 2023 and 2025, along with Ohio State's win in 2024, highlight the dominance of these two programs in women's college hockey.

University of Wisconsin Repeats as Champions in NCAA Women’s Hockey – Fikkle Fame

Head coach Mark Johnson expressed pride in his team's resilience, stating, "It's sort of surreal. Trying to still process how we got through Friday night's game and then figure out how we got through this afternoon." Enright, reflecting on her game-winning goal, remarked, “I don’t score many goals, but it feels amazing.” Ohio State head coach Nadine Muzzerall acknowledged her team's effort, saying, “I was very proud of them. I thought they persevered and showed some grit and some heart.”

Wisconsin beats Ohio State to win second consecutive NCAA women’s hockey championship

Despite the loss, Ohio State's performance was commendable. Coach Muzzerall noted the character of her team, particularly their ability to respond after falling behind. Players like Joy Dunne emphasized their determination, stating, “We play as a team, we are a family and we are going to prove that in the next third.” This sentiment reflects the competitive nature of the rivalry, as both teams strive for excellence.

Ohio State falls to Wisconsin 3-2 in NCAA women’s hockey national championship

With this championship victory, Wisconsin continues to build on its legacy in women's hockey, while Ohio State will look to regroup and challenge for the title in the upcoming seasons. The rivalry is expected to remain fierce, as both teams are poised to compete at a high level in the WCHA and beyond.

University of Wisconsin Repeats as Champions in NCAA Women’s Hockey – Fikkle Fame

• “I can’t be more proud of my teammates. I’m proud of all the staff that has pushed us so hard. I’m just amazed at this group, but I love these girls. To be a defensive forward…I don’t score many goals, but it feels amazing.” — Claire Enright, Senior Forward, Wisconsin

Wisconsin beats Ohio State to win second consecutive NCAA women’s hockey championship

• “It speaks a lot to their character when you’re down 2-0 and you punch back.” — Nadine Muzzerall, Head Coach, Ohio State

Late third-period goal sinks Ohio State in national title loss to Wisconsin

• “It feels just as sweet as the first one,” — Claire Enright, reflecting on her championship experience.

Wisconsin beats Ohio State to win second consecutive NCAA women’s hockey championship