The University of Mary Washington women's soccer team has been ranked No. 12 in the NCAA Division III preseason poll, as announced by the United Soccer Coaches on Tuesday afternoon.
The Eagles enter the 2026 campaign following one of the most successful seasons in program history. Mary Washington finished 14-4-5 in 2025, earned three victories over nationally ranked opponents, and advanced to the NCAA Division III Quarterfinals (Elite Eight), setting the stage for another strong season.
UMW returns two of its captains in Maci Landel and Naomi Knight, both of whom competed for Richmond Ivy this summer. The duo played key roles in the Eagles' postseason run, earning Coast-to-Coast Conference First Team honors. Landel was also recognized as an All-American after leading the team with nine goals and 11 assists, while Knight anchored the back line by starting 22 matches and adding a pair of goals.
The Eagles also welcome back a wealth of experienced talent. Layla Royster (six goals) and Emily Box (five goals) return to bolster the attack, while Amanda Dolan, Katie Britton, Olivia Ewing, and Taylor Garofalo all return after logging significant minutes during Mary Washington's NCAA Tournament run. In goal, Emily Orn is back after starting 20 matches last season, posting seven shutouts and 47 saves.
Head coach Scott Gersney also strengthened the roster with an experienced recruiting class. Graduate student Hailey Baltzelle joins the Eagles after appearing in 36 games at the Division I level with Longwood. Sophomore forward Erin Lee transfers from Connecticut College, while veteran goalkeepers Kaylee Norstrand and Elizabeth Mayo arrive from the junior college ranks. Mary Washington also welcomes a talented freshman class of 10 student-athletes, with many hailing from the Richmond and Northern Virginia regions.
The Eagles will open the 2026 season on Sept. 1 when they travel to Ashland, Va., to take on Randolph-Macon.
