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Women's Lacrosse

Women's Lacrosse Voted Second in Atlantic East Preseason Poll

Marywood finished 3-2 in conference play last season

Haddonfield, N.J. – The Atlantic East Conference announced the Women's Lacrosse Preseason poll, Thursday. The Marywood University Pacers were selected second, with 20 total points and one first place vote.

The Pacers went 3-2 in conference play last year and were named Co-Coaching Staff of the Year, with Krista Strausser entering into her third season ahead of the 2026 campaign. Three of the five First Team All-Conference selections return this spring, with Natalie Yilanjian (attack), Avery Meighan (midfield), and Kaitlyn Smith (midfield). Yilanjian totaled 60 points off 44 goals and 16 assists while causing 15 turnovers. Meighan scored 57 goals and dished out 22 assists, good for 79 points, along with scooping up 55 ground balls and causing 23 turnovers. Recording the most points of the trio was Smith, who had 83 points off 61 goals and 22 assists.

Marymount, was voted first in the preseason poll, tallying 24 total points, and receiving four first place nods. 

The Knights of Neumann received one first place vote, with a total of 19 points, placing them third in the poll. 

Following Neumann, in fourth place, was Immaculata who received eleven total points. 

Gwynedd Mercy landed fifth, receiving 10 total points. 

Rounding out the bunch was Centenary, receiving six points. 

Non-conference play begins on February 14, with Marywood opening play againt Montclair State University.

Conference competition starts on March 28 with Immaculata hosting Marywood..

The 2026 Atlantic East Tournament is set to begin with the semifinals on Saturday, April 25, and the championship match on Friday, May 1.

Women's Lacrosse Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Marymount - 24 (4)
2. Marywood - 20 (1)
3. Neumann - 19 (1)
4. Immaculata - 11
5. Gwynedd Mercy - 10
6. Centenary - 6
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Players Mentioned

Avery Meighan

#5 Avery Meighan

M
5' 6"
Junior
Kaitlyn Smith

#9 Kaitlyn Smith

M
5' 7"
Junior
Natalie Yilanjian

#27 Natalie Yilanjian

A
5' 9"
Junior

Players Mentioned

Avery Meighan

#5 Avery Meighan

5' 6"
Junior
M
Kaitlyn Smith

#9 Kaitlyn Smith

5' 7"
Junior
M
Natalie Yilanjian

#27 Natalie Yilanjian

5' 9"
Junior
A