Gannon Women's Soccer Ranks No. 23 in 2026 Preseason Poll
The United Soccer Coaches have released their 2026 preseason national poll, placing Gannon University’s women’s soccer program at No. 23 in the country.
The Golden Knights arrive in the rankings after a dominant 2025 campaign that ended 16‑3‑2 and secured a spot in the NCAA Division II Tournament for the fifth consecutive season, marking the ninth tournament appearance in program history.
Head coach Colin Petersen, now in his 27th year with Gannon and his 25th as the women’s soccer leader, brings a career record of 237 wins, 167 losses and 46 ties to the field.
Florida Tech, the defending national champion, tops the preseason list with a 15‑3‑6 record, while Cal Poly Pomona follows in second at 14‑1‑3, and Franklin Pierce, Washburn and Dallas Baptist round out the top five.
Three Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference members — West Chester, Shepherd and Gannon — are all represented in the poll, underscoring the conference’s depth.
Gannon’s 2026 season will open on August 30 with a home matchup against Seton Hill at McConnell Family Stadium, kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m.