Bradford, PA – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford women’s lacrosse team is ready to begin intercollegiate competition after two years of preparation as it will begin play as a varsity sport for the 2026 season.
The Panthers will begin competition under the leadership of interim head coach Tyrone Bowen-Collateta, who took the reigns of the program this winter. Bowen-Collateta is a Pitt-Bradford alum who was instrumental in the formation of both the men’s and women’s lacrosse programs at the college. While he did not play for the Panthers, he did serve as an assistant coach for the men’s team in their inaugural season.
“I am extremely excited to coach this group of young women,” said Bowen-Collateta. “As we enter our first season, our focus is on building a strong foundation that will let our program continue to grow.”
Bowen-Collateta will lead a young team that is buoyed by a few experienced players that have transferred into the program, as well as newcomers that have a long history in the game. Haley Carlo and Olivia Garcia provide college experience, while Samantha Burke and Addison Molampy also provide leadership and support for teammates that are newer to the game.
The Panthers kick off their season on Saturday, February 14th with a home matchup with Geneva. It will be followed by 7 straight away games, which includes a Spring Break trip to North Carolina. Conference play begins on April 3rd with a game at La Roche.
“We want to play with physicality, high energy, and discipline,” said Bowen-Collateta, “Our main goal this season is to establish our identity as a new program, continue to develop throughout the season, and compete right away in the AMCC.”
The Panthers were projected to finish 5th in the conference in the AMCC Preseason Coaches’ Poll. The full release from the conference can be found here.
