Preseason Predictions Set the Tone
The BIG EAST Conference has unveiled its 2026 preseason coaches' poll, a snapshot that already frames the narrative for the upcoming season. In the East Division, Georgetown earned a perfect 66 points and all 11 first‑place votes, cementing its status as the unanimous favorite. Across the Midwest, Akron matched that dominance with identical scoring and vote distribution, signaling that both programs enter the campaign with strong momentum.
Georgetown arrives after capturing the BIG EAST regular‑season and tournament titles in 2025 and advancing to the NCAA Championship quarterfinals, finishing the year with a 14‑4‑4 record. Akron, meanwhile, posted a 13‑5‑3 slate and also reached the quarterfinal round, underscoring the competitive edge both squads bring to the league.
Key Players Recognized
Among the honorees, Mitchell Baker of Georgetown was selected Preseason Offensive Player of the Year after a 2025 campaign that yielded 14 goals and three assists, earning United Soccer Coaches Second Team All‑America and a MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist nod. Midfielder Til Kauschke from Seton Hall claimed Preseason Midfielder of the Year, highlighted by a flawless three‑for‑three record on penalty kicks and a place on the All‑BIG EAST Second Team. Defender Tate Lampman of Georgetown earned Defensive Player of the Year, a accolade that follows his role in a championship‑winning backline and a call‑up to the U.S. Under‑20 national team camp.
Goalkeeper Kyle Durham of UConn was named Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year, having topped the nation with 98 saves and posted a .803 save percentage in his first year with the Huskies. The preseason All‑BIG EAST team features 12 selections, with Georgetown leading the pack at three players, while Akron, Providence and Seton Hall each contributed two.
Season Outlook
The 2026 schedule opens on August 20, when conference members will begin battling across the country. With a blend of proven champions and rising talent, the poll suggests that the East and Midwest divisions will remain tightly contested, promising a season that could reshape the national landscape.