BRIDGEWATER, N.J. - The NEC released its 2026 Women's Lacrosse Preseason Poll on Thursday afternoon. The FDU Knights were picked to finish sixth by the league's coaches.
 
The Knights are hopeful to exceed the league's expectations after consistently improving their in-conference record year after year. This season holds extra meaning as it marks the senior campaign for the inaugural freshman class.
 
Among those graduating is Brielle McInaw, the first FDU Women's Lacrosse player to be named to the All-NEC First Team. McInaw scored 32 goals throughout the 2025 season, making her the program's all-time leading goal scorer and putting her at sixth most in the NEC.
 
The team is also excited to welcome back sophomore Adriana Mavlios who was named to the 2025 NEC All-Rookie Team. Mavlios' aggressive attack allowed her to earn 23 goals and 15 assists in her freshman season, making her a dangerous part of the Knights offense.
 
Also returning to the program, for her fourth season at FDU, is Head Coach Jessica Pandolf. Pandolf was the original coach of the Knights and returns 25 players from last season.
 
2026 NEC Women's Lacrosse Poll
 

1. LIU (unanimous)
2. Stonehill
3. Wagner
4. Mercyhurst
5. Le Moyne
6. FDU
7. New Haven
8. (tie) CCSU

            Howard

9. Delaware State