BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (Aug. 11, 2026) – The Stonehill women's cross country team was selected second in the 2026 NEC Preseason Coaches Poll announced by the League on Tuesday afternoon.

The Skyhawks, who finished the 2025 season fourth, received three first place votes as they look to pursue its second NEC title after winning the championship in 2023. Stonehill returns all five of its scoring runners from last year, including Emily Young and sophomore Isabella Galusha.

Defending champion Central Connecticut State was picked to repeat, while Wagner was chosen third and Mercyhurst and LIU were fourth and fifth, respectively.

2026 NEC Women's Cross Country Preseason Coaches Poll
1. CCSU (6)
2. Stonehill (3)
3. Wagner
4. Mercyhurst
5. LIU
6. Le Moyne
7. FDU
8. New Haven
9. Chicago State