MERCYHURST (0-0-0) vs OAKLAND (0-0-0)
Thursday Aug. 13 – 5:00 p.m.
Erie, Pa. – Saxon Stadium
TV: NEC Front Row
The Lakers will open the 2026 season Thursday evening when they welcome Oakland University to Saxon Stadium. Mercyhurst will begin its campaign at home as it looks to start the new season on a strong note against the Golden Grizzlies.
Previously from the Lakers
Thursday's contest marks the first game of the 2026 season for Mercyhurst. The Lakers enter the new campaign looking to build on their preparation throughout the preseason with second year head coach Dale White. The Lakers were recently ranked seventh in the NEC Preseason Poll.
The Watchlist
Annabella Stoehr started all 19 games for the Lakers in 2025, logging 1,696 minutes on the back line. She recorded four shots, including one on goal.
Isabella Fiorillo appeared in all 19 games with 18 starts last season. She finished with two goals and four points, including a game-winning goal against New Haven. Fiorillo added seven shots and four shots on goal.
Maddi Cowburn started 18 of her 19 appearances in 2025 and recorded two goals and two assists for six points. She added seven shots and four shots on goal while logging 1,307 minutes.
Caterina Cappiello was one of the Lakers' top offensive contributors in 2025, recording two goals and one assist for five points. She appeared in 18 games with 16 starts, totaling 1,323 minutes while recording 18 shots and 11 shots on goal.
Anamari Bosnjak appeared in 13 games last season and scored two goals for four points. She scored the game-tying goal in Mercyhurst's season opener against Northern Kentucky.
A Closer Look: Oakland
- Oakland University will travel to Erie for their season-opening matchup against the Lakers.
- Thursday's contest marks the first game of the 2026 season for both teams.
- The Golden Grizzlies stood strong at home last season against Mercyhurst. grabbing a 4-2 home win.Â
- Picked to finish fifth in the Horizon League Preseason Poll
Up Next
Mercyhurst will remain in Erie for its next match Sunday, Aug. 16, at 3 p.m. when the Lakers host Buffalo at Saxon Stadium.
