Monks poised for breakthrough season
Saint Joseph's College of Maine captured third place in the 2026 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) men's soccer preseason coaches' poll, earning 137 points. The University of Saint Joseph (Conn.) topped the poll with 164 points, while the defending GNAC champion Blue Jays received nine first‑place votes. Rivier University followed in second with three first‑place votes and 154 points.
Head coach Will Pike, now in his third season, says the team is focused on translating that poll standing into a real postseason run, aiming for its first NCAA Tournament berth since 2021.
Coach Pike’s vision
Pike emphasizes continuity, noting that the returning core provides a solid foundation for early chemistry and competitive play.
Returning standouts
Junior Nick Marion led the squad with nine goals and 24 points last season, earning First Team All‑GNAC honors. Senior Diego Robinson started all 17 games and logged a team‑high 1,474 minutes, while senior Zander Haskell also returned after a First Team All‑GNAC selection. Junior Cole Bishop contributed six goals, including two game‑winners, and added four assists, securing a Second Team All‑GNAC nod.
Season outlook
The 2026 GNAC campaign opens on September 1, with conference play beginning September 12. The Monks will meet rivals such as the University of Saint Joseph (Conn.) and Rivier University, both of whom posted strong preseason point totals. A top‑four finish would likely earn an automatic NCAA berth, a milestone the program has not achieved since 2021.