The BIG EAST Conference unveiled its 2026 preseason men’s soccer coaches’ poll, revealing a clear hierarchy in both divisions. In the East, Georgetown earned all 11 first‑place votes and amassed 66 points, leaving no doubt about its projected dominance. Across the Midwest, Akron mirrored that certainty, also receiving a perfect slate of first‑place votes and 66 points.
Preseason Honors Spotlight
Georgetown arrives at the new campaign fresh off a double triumph in the BIG EAST regular season and tournament the previous year, finishing the 2025 schedule with a 14‑4‑4 record. The team’s offensive engine, Mitchell Baker, was crowned Preseason Offensive Player of the Year after posting 14 goals and three assists, a performance that later earned him the 10th overall pick in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft and a spot on the United Soccer Coaches Second Team All‑America.
Midfielder Til Kauschke from Seton Hall added another layer of intrigue by securing the Preseason Midfielder of the Year award after converting all three of his penalty‑kick attempts in 2025. His recognition was complemented by a place on the All‑BIG EAST Second Team and a United Soccer Coaches All‑East Region First Team nod.
Defensive accolades went to Tate Lampman of Georgetown, who was named Preseason Defensive Player of the Year and also earned Most Outstanding Defensive Player honors at the BIG EAST Championship. His contributions helped the Hoyas compile 11 shutouts, underscoring a backline that proved difficult to breach.
In goal, Kyle Durham of UConn captured the Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year award. In his inaugural season as Huskies’ keeper, he topped the nation with 98 saves and a .803 save percentage, establishing himself as a cornerstone for the team’s defensive strategy.
The preseason recognitions extend beyond individual awards. The conference announced its All‑BIG EAST Team, with Georgetown leading the selections at three spots, while Akron, Providence and Seton Hall each contributed two players. The 2026 season is slated to open on August 20, prompting squads from across the country to begin their campaigns.