NORTH ATTLEBORO, MA. – The Northeast 10 Conference (NE10) released its 2026 Softball Preseason Coaches' Poll on Thursday afternoon, with Pace University Softball selected as the preseason favorite following the greatest season in program history.

Pace earned 78 total points and six first-place votes, finishing atop the poll ahead of Southern New Hampshire with 65 points and one first-place vote. Assumption was tabbed third with 61 points and three first-place votes, while Franklin Pierce and Bentley tied for fourth with 52 points apiece.

The Setters enter the 2026 campaign riding unprecedented momentum after a record-breaking 2025 season that featured Pace's first-ever appearance in the NCAA Division II Softball Championship, an NCAA East Regional title, and the program's second Northeast 10 Conference Championship. The historic run also included new program records for total wins (46), consecutive wins (27), and an undefeated conference mark (20–0).

Led by long-time Head Coach Claudia Stabile, the preseason recognition reflects the sustained excellence that has defined Pace Softball at the national level. With expectations at an all-time high, the Setters will look to build on last season's remarkable success as they open the 2026 slate.

2026 NE10 SOFTBALL COACHES' POLL
1. Pace – 78 (6)
2. SNHU – 65 (1)
3. Assumption – 61 (3)
T4. Franklin Pierce – 52
      Bentley – 52
6. Adelphi – 46
7. Saint Anselm – 37
8. Saint Michael's – 23
9. SCSU – 20
10. American International – 16

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