NEW PALTZ, NY – The SUNY New Paltz women's volleyball team claimed the sixth spot in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Preseason Poll, announced by the conference office Friday morning.
New Paltz enters the 2026 season ready to make a splash in its first year in the NJAC, as the Hawks were also selected as the conference's dark horse. The top six teams in the regular-season 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 Volleyball Championship.
The Hawks put together a rock-solid 2025 campaign, eclipsing 15 wins for the fourth consecutive season while reaching the SUNYAC Tournament for the 21st straight year. New Paltz knocked off SUNY Morrisville in straight sets on its home court in the opening round before seeing its season come to an end against SUNY Oswego in the semifinal round.
New Paltz will look to senior setter Kim Braun to lead the squad through its inaugural season of NJAC play, as she was selected as the Hawks' Player to Watch. The senior captain enjoyed a spectacular junior campaign, earning All-SUNYAC Third Team honors after appearing in all 28 matches. Braun piled up 629 assists, averaging 6.48 assists per set, while adding 226 digs. The Garrison, N.Y. native was also dangerous offensively, collecting 40 service aces and 27 kills from her setter position.
Reigning NJAC champion Kean earned the top spot in the preseason poll, receiving eight first-place votes. Stockton claimed the second spot, while William Paterson placed third and received the remaining two first-place votes. Kean is also receiving votes in the AVCA Division III Coaches Poll.
Braun and the Hawks begin their 2026 campaign Tuesday, Sept. 1, hosting Western Connecticut State at 6 p.m. New Paltz will make its NJAC debut on the road Tuesday, Sept. 22, taking on Ramapo College at 7 p.m.
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