Heading into the 2026 season, Butler looks towards their defense to be a problem-maker for their opponents.
 
Butler Women's Lacrosse Head Coach, Maggie Zentgraf, enters her fourth season at the helm of the Butler women's lacrosse program. On the defensive end, Zentgraf anticipates a high energy style of play bringing competitiveness and hard work.
 
"You can expect gritty defense, with a lot of energy and competitiveness," Zentgraf said. "We are going to be a team that welcomes the toughness and gives it right back."
 
The Bulldogs head into the 2026 season with a revamped roster, as well as an additional coach on staff for the season. 
 
Newcomers
Coaches
Zentgraf will be joined by a new assistant coach MC Wright. Wright begins her coaching career at Butler after playing for Princeton in 2021 and joining the Bulldogs in 2025 for her graduate season. Wright will assist on all ends bringing experience on offense and defense, specializing in stick work. 
 
Butler has returned many of its defenders from a season ago, but also has a few new key additions.
 
Transfers
Butler boosted its defense with experience in the portal this offseason adding a defensive transfer.
 
Sophomore Isabella Rockwell joins the defense from Granville, Ohio and Rider University. During her time at Granville High School, Rockwell was named Region Defender of the Year, Ohio Defender of the Year and First Team All-Ohio, while being named a three-time captain.
 
"Bella is adamant to get back after an injury. She has a commanding voice and will be an impactful player on the defensive end," Zentgraf said. "She is the piece we were hoping to find in the portal."
 
Freshmen
This year's new look defense will feature four freshman defenders.
 
On the defense, there will be four freshman defenders, including Ginger Fishberg and Madelyn Harmeyer, who will take on new roles on defense. Gemma DiMasi, and hopefully a recovered Jordan Smith after an ACL injury last April will also be additions. "We expect the freshmen class to bring a lot of competitiveness and physicality," Zentgraf said. "They are gritty, team players, and very coachable. We have to be so physically strong to match the girls in the BIG EASTt"
 
Returners
Zentgraf's defense brings back key returners from last season.
 
Senior defender Patricia Lynn is back for her fourth year. Lynn has been the draw taker in her previous three seasons at Butler and will again be draw taker for her fourth year. 
 
Junior Mila Navarro returns for the Bulldogs in a new role. Navarro will feature on defense this season after spending the last two years on the attacking end. 
 
Sophomores Olivia DiCarlo and Elizabeth Badke are also returning for the Bulldogs on the defensive side. DiCarlo played in every game last season. 
 
"These girls have worked hard and have been a sponge stepping into their roles," Zentgraf said. "They bring a whole new energy into the team and are willing to make any play to help their teammates."
 
Goalies
In goal, freshman Samantha Wilson is poised to step into the starting role between the pipes. Wilson is a freshman addition from Windermere, Fla. 
"Sam came in and grew in the element of pressure," Zentgraf said. "She enjoys putting in the work and she loves her teammates and loves Butler!"
 
Team Leadership
Zentgraf announced the team captain for the 2026 campaign will be senior Patricia Lynn. Lynn will direct the draw control for the 2026 season. She brings experience to the team and will be a vocal leader to her diverse core on defense.
 
Season Opener 
The Butler women's lacrosse team will head north to Detroit, Mich. to kick off the season opener against Detroit Mercy on Friday, Feb. 6.
 
Social Updates
For additional social updates and game information, follow Butler women's lacrosse on X and Instagram @ButlerWLacrosse.