EDISON, N.J. - With the 2026 season less than one week away, the Manhattan University women's soccer program has been picked to finish sixth in this year's Metro Preseason Coaches' Poll, announced by the conference Thursday morning.
The Jaspers received 86 points, tying with Marist for the sixth spot. This ties the previous ranking the Green and White received in the 2025 poll, both their best selection since when they were picked fourth in 2018.
Manhattan returns 22 players from last year's squad, welcoming eight first-year players as well. Returners include
Molly Brunk, who broke a previous program record of 17 career shutouts, recording her 18th against Marist on October 15, 2025. Brunk also stands four away from tying the career wins record of 24, set by Kristen Skonieczny (2012-15).
Head Coach
Brendan Lawler also finds himself on the path to history. Already the program's all-time winningest coach, he is a mere five wins away from number 100, over double any previous coach in Manhattan history.
The Green and White start their 2026 campaign this Wednesday, August 12, when they travel to West Long Branch to take on the Hawks from Monmouth. Game time is set for 6 p.m. on FloCollege, and can be viewed with a paid subscription.
