The 2026 Northeast Conference preseason coaches poll was released this week, offering a snapshot of how the league’s nine member programs anticipate the upcoming season. Full‑time coaches voted unanimously for Fairleigh Dickinson University to claim the top spot, citing the Knights’ double‑digit success in both the regular season and tournament last year.
Stonehill College entered the rankings at fifth position, a placement that mirrors its tie for fifth in the 2025 conference standings. The Skyhawks posted a 3‑3‑3 record, highlighted by wins over New Haven and Mercyhurst, and the coaching panel appears confident that the team can build on that foundation.
Le Moyne College secured the second‑place vote after a 4‑3‑2 conference record in 2025, while Long Island University earned third despite a modest 3‑4‑2 finish. Both programs are viewed as potential challengers to the preseason favorite.
Mercyhurst rounded out the top four, rounding out a competitive mid‑tier that includes Chicago State University and other regional contenders. The poll’s geographic spread reflects the league’s reach from New Jersey to the Midwest, underscoring the diverse talent pools each institution brings.
Implications for the Upcoming Campaign
The early rankings set the stage for non‑conference matchups and early‑season tournaments, where teams will test the preseason expectations. For Stonehill, the fifth‑place projection serves as both a benchmark and a motivator as they aim to climb higher when conference play begins.