Preseason Momentum
The Catamounts posted 44 points in the 2026 America East Preseason Poll, trailing Bryant by three points and earning two first‑place votes. The tally reflects a program that has consistently positioned itself among the conference’s elite.
Both Niklas Herceg and David Ismail secured spots on the Preseason All‑Conference Team for the second straight year, underscoring their sustained impact on the squad.
Herceg, the team’s goalkeeper, guided Vermont to an unbeaten regular season of 14‑0‑5 and captured a second consecutive America East Championship. His 0.74 goals‑against average, ten shutouts and 55 saves earned him America East Goalkeeper of the Year honors and a 16th‑overall selection in the 2025 MLS Draft, tying the school’s draft record.
Ismail, a forward, contributed ten goals and three assists in 2025, driving the team’s historic unbeaten run and championship. His four game‑winning goals and league‑leading assist total helped him claim the America East Championship Most Outstanding Player award.
Season Opener
The Catamounts open the 2026 campaign with home matches against George Mason on August 20 and Colgate on August 23, setting the stage for a season that could extend their recent dominance.