Key Takeaways
- Coach David Passmore announced a 20‑player roster for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.
- The squad blends youthful talent with seasoned internationals, featuring 136 caps for Ashley Hoffman.
- Goalkeepers Kelsey Bing and Jenny Rizzo anchor a deep defensive lineup.
- Midfield depth includes co‑captains Emma DeBerdine and Meredith Sholder plus eight additional players.
- The team will rely on rigorous preparation, set‑piece refinement, and a competitive training environment to peak for the tournament.
Head Coach’s Statement
Coach David Passmore expressed great optimism about the upcoming World Cup, noting that it marks the United States’ first appearance since 2018. He highlighted the exciting mix of youth and experience, emphasizing the team’s pace, flair, and attacking style. Passmore also pointed out the challenging group draw but reminded observers that the squad displayed a fast‑paced, attacking brand of hockey at the recent Nations Cup. The coaching staff is focused on sharpening set pieces and ensuring that every athlete is prepared to contribute at the highest level.
Roster Overview
The 20‑player roster comprises athletes from across the United States, each bringing a distinct skill set to the team. Defenders include veterans Ashley Hoffman, Kelsey Bing, Jenny Rizzo, Leah Crouse, Claire Danahy, and Bethany Dykema. Midfielders feature co‑captains Emma DeBerdine and Meredith Sholder alongside Lucy Adams, Katie Dixon, Mia Schoenbeck, Lauren Wadas, and Maddie Zimmer. Forwards are represented by a dynamic group that includes Sanne Caarls, Reese D’Ariano, Phia Gladieux, Ryleigh Heck, Ashley Sessa, Abby Tamer, and Beth Yeager. The non‑traveling reserves—Dani Mendez, Annabel Skubisz, and Caroline Ramsey—will provide depth during the preparatory phase.
Defensive Line Highlights
The defensive unit is anchored by experienced goalkeeper Kelsey Bing, who boasts 101 caps, and Jenny Rizzo, a three‑time international. Backline veterans Ashley Hoffman (136 caps) and Bethany Dykema add leadership and defensive solidity. Younger defenders such as Leah Crouse and Claire Danahy bring speed and agility, while Bethany Dykema’s tactical awareness adds stability. This blend of seasoned presence and emerging talent creates a defensive foundation capable of handling the tournament’s elite opponents.
Midfield and Attack Breakdown
Midfielders Emma DeBerdine and Meredith Sholder serve as co‑captains, guiding the team with their vision and experience. The midfield also features versatile players like Lucy Adams, Katie Dixon, Mia Schoenbeck, Lauren Wadas, and Maddie Zimmer, each offering complementary strengths in distribution, ball recovery, and scoring opportunities. In the forward line, the squad showcases a potent mix of domestic and international talent, including Dutch import Sanne Caarls and rising American stars Reese D’Ariano, Phia Gladieux, Ryleigh Heck, and Abby Tamer. Their speed, creativity, and scoring instincts are expected to generate the attacking firepower needed to compete at the highest level.
Experience and Caps Details
Ashley Hoffman stands out as the sole player returning from the 2018 World Cup roster, carrying 136 caps and providing invaluable tournament experience. Goalkeepers Kelsey Bing (101 caps) and Jenny Rizzo (30 caps) bring proven international pedigree, while defenders such as Leah Crouse (72 caps) and Bethany Dykema (7 caps) add depth across the spectrum of experience. The midfield cohort collectively possesses a wealth of caps, with Emma DeBerdine (69) and Meredith Sholder (77) leading a group that includes emerging talents like Mia Schoenbeck (16). This mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers creates a balanced roster poised for sustained performance.
Support Staff and Coaching Team
Coach Passmore will be assisted by goalkeeping specialist Maddie Hinch and technical coach Bert Remmerswaal. The support staff also includes team manager Nazia Rashid, performance analyst Alan Good, athletic trainer Hannah Jaussen, and high‑performance director Craig Parnham. Their combined expertise will focus on player development, tactical preparation, and injury prevention, ensuring that the athletes receive comprehensive support throughout the demanding preparation schedule.
Preparation Strategy and Goals
The coaching staff emphasized a rigorous preparation plan that includes intensive training sessions in Charlotte, where the broader USWNT squad will push the selected athletes to their limits. A key objective is to refine set‑piece execution, ensuring the team can capitalize on strategic opportunities during the tournament. The staff is also dedicated to fostering physical conditioning and mental resilience, aiming to have the squad peak at the right moment when the World Cup begins.
Tournament Prospects and Challenges
Facing a group that includes three formidable opponents, the United States must navigate a highly competitive pool. However, the team’s blend of youthful vigor, seasoned experience, and tactical versatility positions them well to advance. By leveraging their attacking flair, solid defensive structures, and cohesive teamwork, the USWNT aims to make a deep run in the tournament. The ultimate goal is to showcase the progress of American women’s hockey on the global stage and to leave a lasting impression at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.