De Pere, Wis. – The Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) released its annual preseason coaches’ poll on August 27, and St. Norbert College’s Green Knights earned solid placements in both men’s and women’s soccer. The men’s squad was voted into fifth place with 248 points, while the women’s team landed in ninth place with 146 points.
Men’s soccer outlook
St. Norbert’s men’s program received a respectable tally of 248 points, positioning the Green Knights behind Edgewood University (first with 329 points), Milwaukee School of Engineering (second with 302 points), and Aurora University (third with 289 points). The poll reflects confidence from conference coaches and sports information directors that the Knights will be competitive in the upcoming season.
The Knights open their campaign on September 1 with an away match at St. John’s University. Their first conference test arrives two weeks later on September 16, when they travel to Marian University’s Schneider Stadium for the NACC opener.
Women’s soccer outlook
On the women’s side, the Green Knights earned ninth‑place recognition with 146 points. Illinois Institute of Technology led the poll with 335 points, followed by Milwaukee School of Engineering (308 points) and Dominican University (283 points). While the ranking suggests a rebuilding year, the team’s coaches remain optimistic about growth and development.
The women’s squad also begins play on September 1, this time facing the University of Wisconsin‑Oshkosh on the road. Their conference debut mirrors the men’s schedule, taking place on September 16 at Marian University in Fond du Lac.
What the rankings mean for the campus community
Both polls underscore the importance of athletics in fostering school spirit and providing student‑athletes with opportunities to excel both on and off the field. For families and alumni who follow the Green Knights, the preseason rankings offer a glimpse of the competitive landscape and set expectations for a season that could bolster community pride.
College officials highlighted the role of parental support and faith‑based values in shaping the student‑athlete experience. “Our coaches, players, and supporters share a commitment to hard work, integrity, and teamwork,” said a spokesperson for the athletics department. “We look forward to a season that reflects those principles and brings our community together.”
As the NACC schedule unfolds, St. Norbert will aim to exceed the preseason projections, hoping to climb the standings and secure postseason opportunities. Fans are encouraged to attend the opening games and support the Green Knights as they represent De Pere and the broader Wisconsin region.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
