NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Mark Bolding, Susan Cavanagh Head Coach of Women's Hockey, has announced that rising senior Mariya Rauf will serve as captain for the 2026-27 Bulldogs.
"I am very excited to see Mariya take over as our new captain this fall. She is a kind, dedicated, and outstanding player and teammate who will continue to bring the group closer together and keep it connected as we head into another tough season," Bolding said. "I am confident she will smartly bridge the gap with all our players, young and old, while upholding the high morals and standards that our past seniors and strong leader Carina DiAntonio exhibited."
Rauf had a breakout campaign as a junior, recording a career-high eight goals and seven assists. She played in every game for the Bulldogs and was an instrumental part of the team's ECAC Regular Season Championship. In three years at Yale, Rauf has played in 88 games, registering 14 goals and 18 assists. She also coached the Pakistani women's team at the 2025 Amerigol LATAM Cup at the Florida Panthers IceDen.
"Being named captain of this program is a huge honor, especially because it's something voted on by my teammates. Knowing this group trusts me and believes in me as a leader is very meaningful," Rauf said. "Yale is such a special place with high standards both on and off the ice, and I've been fortunate to play under outstanding captains who showed me what leadership and commitment to a team truly look like. To now be given that responsibility myself means so much."
The Bulldogs graduated a strong class but will return a key core of experienced seniors, including Rauf, Stephanie Stainton, Julia Simon, Deanna Buenzow, Anna Phillips and Avery Muhn.
"One of the best things about our team is that there are so many people who lead in ways that may not always come with a letter, but are just as important to our culture and success, and I'm excited for the opportunity to lead alongside a group of experienced and dedicated teammates," Rauf said. "One of the biggest things I've learned during my time here is that being a great teammate isn't defined by circumstances or personal challenges. It's about showing up every day, giving 100 percent to the people around you and positively impacting the team no matter your role."
The Bulldogs will open the 2026-27 season in October.
"Different experiences over the years have shaped my perspective on leadership and taught me the importance of consistency, trust and selflessness in building a strong team culture," Rauf said. "I'm truly grateful for the trust my teammates and coaches have placed in me, and I'm excited for what's ahead with this extremely talented group."
