The TCNJ women's soccer team captured third place in the NJAC Preseason Coaches' Poll, a respectable finish behind Rowan and Montclair State, who occupied the top two spots, while Stockton also featured in the top four.
Among the returning talent, senior forward Alyssa Alfano stands out after earning First Team All-Conference and All-Region honors last season, having led the squad in goals, assists and points.
Maggie Murphy and Emily Weidner, both All-Region selections, are also back to bolster the offensive lineup, adding depth and experience to the attack.
Defensively, the team will retain key figures such as Caroline Freer, Isabella Charles and Ellen Williams, who earned All-Region recognition a year ago and will anchor the back line.
Coach Blank’s Vision
Head coach Danny Blank, now in his fourth season at The College of New Jersey, expressed confidence that the blend of experience and emerging depth will translate into a competitive schedule.
The 2026 campaign opens with non-conference fixtures against Ursinus, Penn State Harrisburg and Arcadia before the team dives into NJAC play on September 30 against 18th-ranked Rowan.
Blank emphasized that the early matches will serve as a laboratory for refining tactics and building chemistry as the squad looks to climb the conference ladder.