The 2026 New Jersey Athletic Conference men's soccer preseason poll has already sparked conversation among coaches and fans, with Rowan University emerging as the clear favorite after earning six first‑place votes. The Highlanders return a core of experienced talent while integrating a handful of promising transfers, positioning them to defend the momentum they built in recent seasons.
Preseason Favorites
Montclair State, the 2025 regular‑season champions, received three first‑place votes and will lean on standout performers such as forward Tomas Monteiro and midfielder Kevin Contreras. Their goalkeeper, Pierre Soumeillant, posted a conference‑game save percentage of .674 last year, adding stability between the posts.
TCNJ secured third spot in the poll, driven by forward Chris Meder, who topped the conference in points and assists during the previous campaign. Meanwhile, Kean University brings back attacking duo Mathew Sarfo and winger Andy Mayorga, who combined for six points in the last season, giving the Cougars a potent front line.
Dark Horse Alert
New Paltz enters its inaugural NJAC season as the dark horse, anchored by returning scorer Brandon Dhanoolal, who will look to make an early impact. Additional newcomers across the league, including Rowan’s Evan Villaboy, Aaron Zhao and Korey Philpot, are expected to bolster depth and competitiveness.
Key Players to Watch
Rowan’s midfielder Christian McGillian and defender Greg Ferreira headline a returning core, while Montclair State’s Pierre Soumeillant aims to improve on his .674 save percentage. TCNJ’s Chris Meder, Kean’s Mathew Sarfo and Andy Mayorga, and New Paltz’s Brandon Dhanoolal each bring proven scoring or playmaking ability that could shift the balance of power.
Coaches' Outlook
Coaches across the conference expressed optimism about their squads’ ability to contend for the 2026 title. Montclair State’s staff highlighted the experience of their returning All‑NJAC selections, while TCNJ’s technical staff pointed to Meder’s playmaking as a catalyst for growth. Stockton’s midfield anchor Aiden Hoenisch, a Second Team All‑NJAC selection, is projected to feature prominently in the assist charts, and Rutgers‑Newark forward Erick Cortes, who ranked second in conference goals, aims to lead the Scarlet Knights’ offense.
The upcoming schedule promises a series of high‑stakes matchups, with William Paterson’s midfielder Matt Escobar, who logged 18 points last year, and goalkeeper Luca Misko, alongside defender Thomas Rogan, forming a balanced backline that could prove decisive. As the season unfolds, the blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent across the NJAC is set to deliver a compelling narrative of rivalry, breakthroughs and championship aspirations.