New Paltz, N.Y. – The SUNY New Paltz women's soccer team has been tabbed seventh in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Preseason Poll, announced by the conference office Tuesday morning. 

Primed for its first season competing in the NJAC; New Paltz landed seventh in the 10-team preseason poll. The top six teams in the conference standings will earn a spot in the NJAC Championship, with the tournament champion receiving the conference's automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Championship. 

The Hawks enjoyed a solid 2025 campaign, finishing 7-4-6 overall while boasting an unbeaten 5-0-2 record on their home South Turf Field. New Paltz went 3-1-5 in its final season of SUNYAC play before falling to Buffalo State in the quarterfinal round of the conference tournament. 

Rowan claimed the top spot in the preseason poll and entered the season ranked No. 18 nationally. Defending NJAC champion Montclair State also received five first-place votes, while Stockton was selected as the conference's Dark Horse. 

Alyssa Deutsch (East Islip, NY) is set to be a vital piece of the Hawks' attack this season after being named New Paltz's Player to Watch. Deutsch enjoyed a strong sophomore campaign before suffering a season-ending injury, with the talented midfielder totaling three goals and two assists for eight points. Her season was highlighted by the game-winning goal against SUNY Potsdam at South Turf Field. 

Deutsch and the Hawks will open their 2026 campaign at home against Farmingdale State on Tuesday, Sept. 1, with kickoff slated for 4 p.m. at South Turf Field. 

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