Season Outlook: The Ducks' Quest for a Third Title in Six Seasons
The 2026 women's soccer season began with a clear message from the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Freedom coaches: Stevens Institute of Technology is a force to be reckoned with. In the preseason poll, the Ducks were placed second, trailing only Misericordia University, which garnered 61 points and five first‑place votes. The ranking sets the stage for another intense rivalry that has defined the conference over the past several years.
Stevens and Misericordia have met in every MAC Freedom Championship game since Stevens entered the league in the 2019‑20 academic year. The Ducks added the 2019 conference championship to a collection that already includes titles in three of the last six seasons. Their 2025 campaign featured a 12‑4‑6 overall record, a 6‑1 mark in conference play, and a 17‑game winning streak that ended only with a single defeat. The team capped the season by capturing the MAC Freedom Championship over Misericordia and then defeating Virginia Wesleyan 2‑0 in the NCAA Division III Championship First Round.
Head coach Stuart Moran, now in his fifth year at the helm, brings a steady hand and a proven track record. Under his guidance the Ducks posted a 12‑4‑6 record and finished the season with a 6‑1 conference slate. Moran’s leadership has been instrumental in developing the talent that returns for 2026, including reigning Offensive Player of the Year Alana Odom, First‑Team selection Molly McCann, and defensive stalwart Taylor Truglia.
The season opener will take place on September 1 at the DeBaun Athletic Complex, where the Ducks will host Hartford. The match marks the first test of a roster that blends veteran experience with fresh energy. Fans can expect a competitive performance as the team looks to translate its preseason momentum into a third championship in six seasons.