The Presidents' Athletic Conference has unveiled its 2026 women's soccer preseason coaches' poll, offering a first look at how programs are shaping up for the upcoming campaign.
Among the highlighted teams, Saint Francis University's Red Wolves are entering a pivotal transition, moving to Division III and forfeiting eligibility for the PAC Championship.
Returning standouts
Sophomore midfielder Meredith Artz from Monroe Township, New Jersey, returns after making her collegiate debut last season and is expected to anchor the midfield with her vision and work rate.
Senior defender Riley Cerqua of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will be in her fourth year with the program, bringing experience and leadership after earning CSC Academic All‑District honors.
Also back is senior midfielder Mercedez Paino of Langhorne, Pennsylvania, who contributed a first career assist in 2025 and will add depth to the attacking midfield.
Defender Caterina Schiavo of Sicklerville, New Jersey, appeared in 18 matches last season and recorded her initial collegiate assists, providing stability at the back.
A new schedule on the horizon
The Red Wolves will host two preseason scrimmages, first against University of Pittsburgh‑Greensburg on August 23 and then versus Juniata College on August 28, before opening the regular season at home against Carnegie Mellon University on September 1.
Head coach Brian Diaz and assistant coach Clare Crossley are optimistic that the blend of seasoned seniors and emerging talent will give the team a competitive edge as they adjust to the new division.
With the preseason poll ranking Grove City College atop the league with 132 points, the Red Wolves aim to prove they belong among the conference's elite despite their recent reclassification.