The Youngstown State women's lacrosse program was slated seventh in the 2026 Mid-American Conference (MAC) Preseason Coaches Poll, the conference announced on Wednesday.

The Penguins received 12 points in their preseason selection.

Conference newcomer UMass was picked first, receiving six of eight first-place votes. The Minutewomen were followed by the three teams that split the MAC regular season title last season, Akron, Eastern Michigan, and Robert Morris. The Zips, who also won the Mid-American Conference Tournament title, were picked in a tie for second with the Eagles, who each received 37 points. EMU also received a first-place vote. Robert Morris was slated fourth, receiving 34 points and also a first-place vote. Central Michigan was picked fifth with 28 points, Kent State was slated sixth with 19 points, and Detroit Mercy rounded out the preseason poll with nine points.

The Penguins, under the direction of first-year head coach Liza Oakley, will open their 2026 season at home on Friday, Feb. 6 vs. Bucknell. First draw against the Bison is set for 6 p.m. at the Watson and Tressel Training Site.

This season's roster features a combination of 13 newcomers and 19 returners, including 2025 MAC All-Freshman Team selections Claire Baenziger and Meghan McGrath.

2026 MAC Women's Lacrosse Preseason Coaches Poll

(First Place Votes)

1. UMass (6)- 48 points

T2. Akron- 37 points

T2. Eastern Michigan (1)- 37 points

4. Robert Morris (1)- 34 points

5. Central Michigan- 28 points

6. Kent State- 19 points

7. Youngstown State- 12 points

8. Detroit Mercy- 9 points

Tournament Champion: UMass – 6; Eastern Michigan – 1; Robert Morris – 1

For news and updates throughout the 2026 women's lacrosse season, follow @YSUwlax on X.