HACKENSACK, N.J. – FDU softball was picked third in the 2026 NEC Preseason Coaches' Poll, the conference announced on Friday afternoon.

Head coach Chris Foye and the Knights look to follow up a successful 2025 campaign that featured a 13-8 record in NEC play. FDU earned a berth to the 2025 NEC Tournament, finishing in third in the conference.

Heading into 2026, expectations remain high, with the Knights receiving multiple first place votes alongside their top three finish. FDU returns a large portion of their lineup from the 2025 season, highlighted by three returning All-NEC members.

Madison Rishel will look to build off a ridiculous freshman campaign in Hackensack. Rishel hit .398 with 70 hits in 2025, both setting FDU single-season records. Rishel's eye-popping numbers earned her the 2025 NEC Rookie of the Year Award, as well as spots on the All-NEC First Team and NEC All-Rookie Team.

Joining Rishel from last season's NEC All-Rookie team are sophomores Kailee O'Sullivan and Brianna Holguin. O'Sullivan led FDU with 36 runs batted in last season, while hitting to a .356 average. O'Sullivan also posted a .527 slugging percentage, leading all Knights. Holguin held down second base for FDU in 2025, hitting .319 and leading the Knights with 22 walks.

The full poll can be found below:

1. LIU (5)

2. CCSU (2)

3. FDU (2)

4. Wagner

5. Le Moyne

6. Saint Francis

7. Stonehill

8. Mercyhurst

9. New Haven

FDU will start their season on Friday, February 13 in the ​​USD/UCSD Co-Host Tournament. The Knights play a double-header against Boise State and UC San Diego starting at 5 p.m. EST.