BRIDGEWATER, N.J. – The NEC released their 2026 Preseason Women's Soccer Coaches Poll on Tuesday afternoon. The FDU Knights claimed the top spot in the poll as they earned seven first place votes from the league's coaches.

The reigning NEC Regular Season Champion Knights return a strong core from a successful 2025 campaign. The 2026 team features four 2025 All-NEC First Team members and the NEC Midfielder of the Year. Eight players on this year's team made at least 10 starts last season.

The Knights finished ahead of Central Connecticut, who took the second spot in the poll. The only other team to receive first place votes was Wagner. The Seahawks claimed the poll's third spot.

FDU's season begins on August 16 at Seton Hall. Their NEC slate begins with a home match against Le Moyne on September 17 at Macron Stadium.