FAIRMONT, W.Va. — West Liberty University has been picked to finish tied for second in the North Division of the 2026 Mountain East Conference women's soccer preseason poll, as voted on by the league's 12 head coaches.
The Hilltoppers received 51 points in the preseason voting, matching Frostburg State for second place. Frostburg State received three first-place votes, while West Liberty did not receive a first-place vote. Fairmont State, the reigning MEC champion, was selected as the North Division favorite with nine first-place votes and 59 points. Point Park was picked fourth with 42 points, followed by Davis & Elkins with 21 and Wheeling with 18.
In the South Division, West Virginia State was selected as the preseason favorite with eight first-place votes and 58 points. Charleston was second with 51 points and four first-place votes, followed by Concord (43), West Virginia Wesleyan (30), Glenville State (22) and Shawnee State (12).
West Liberty opens the 2026 season Thursday, Aug. 27, at D'Youville University in Buffalo, N.Y. The Hilltoppers will then travel to Malone University on Sept. 2 before opening conference play Sept. 6 at Fairmont State.
The Hilltoppers' home opener is set for Sept. 9 against Point Park at the West Family Athletic Complex.
2026 MEC Women's Soccer Preseason Poll
North Division
- Fairmont State — 59 (9)
T-2. West Liberty — 51
T-2. Frostburg State — 51 (3)
- Point Park — 42
- Davis & Elkins — 21
- Wheeling — 18
South Division
- West Virginia State — 58 (8)
- Charleston — 51 (4)
- Concord — 43
- West Virginia Wesleyan — 30
- Glenville State — 22
- Shawnee State — 12
Coaches were not permitted to vote for their own team.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at
westliberty.edu.
