Following the lead of @stlawus over on the new UAA board. Also I can't decide if NJ fits in the Mid Atlantic since, well, it's NJ and therefore might qualify as its own US region or even country for that matter ;D
NJAC preseason poll (https://njacsports.com/news/2024/8/21/montclair-state-tabbed-no-1-in-2024-njac-mens-soccer-preseason-poll.aspx)
Quote from: Freddyfud on August 21, 2024, 10:39:20 PMFollowing the lead of @stlawus over on the new UAA board. Also I can't decide if NJ fits in the Mid Atlantic since, well, it's NJ and therefore might qualify as its own US region or even country for that matter ;D
NJAC preseason poll (https://njacsports.com/news/2024/8/21/montclair-state-tabbed-no-1-in-2024-njac-mens-soccer-preseason-poll.aspx)
That was probably the best preseason conference preview article I've seen from a conference. Lots of detail about each individual team plus coach quotes.
Odd that Lukovic missing the season wasn't mentioned. That alone has major implications on the conference at large.
Rowan University has posted its 2024 roster (https://www.rowanathletics.com/sports/mens-soccer/roster)
Montclair currently down 2-0 to Wheaton (MA). Lukovic injury might have serious impact this season.
Quote from: stlawus on August 30, 2024, 04:24:18 PMMontclair currently down 2-0 to Wheaton (MA). Lukovic injury might have serious impact this season.
With both goals scored by Aidan Doyle, a transfer to Wheaton after two years at DI Springhill College
I spoke with someone today deep in the know, and watched the first half. I think the
@tcnjlions administration has effectively neutered the @TCNJMS soccer program for years to come. I don't say that happily because I think this is one program that should be a consistently Top 20.
Quote from: stlawus on August 30, 2024, 04:24:18 PMMontclair currently down 2-0 to Wheaton (MA). Lukovic injury might have serious impact this season.
You would think that if people are paying for a sub to Flo Sports, there would be a better camera angle/stream. I cant watch the game.
Quote from: stlawus on August 30, 2024, 04:24:18 PMMontclair currently down 2-0 to Wheaton (MA). Lukovic injury might have serious impact this season.
Might lol? Hard to replace someone who outscored half of the division 3 teams himself
Quote from: SimpleCoach on August 30, 2024, 05:30:13 PMQuote from: stlawus on August 30, 2024, 04:24:18 PMMontclair currently down 2-0 to Wheaton (MA). Lukovic injury might have serious impact this season.
You would think that if people are paying for a sub to Flo Sports, there would be a better camera angle/stream. I cant watch the game.
The schools are still the ones doing the filming under the FloSports deals. In theory, they require schools to meet some minimum standards, but that likely just relates to technical specifications for the camera equipment. They probably don't require them to do things like build elevated platforms for the cameras to ensure they have sightlines for the full field.
Quote from: Kuiper on August 30, 2024, 04:28:31 PMWith both goals scored by Aidan Doyle, a transfer to Wheaton after two years at DI Springhill College
A D3 player earned a brace against a good D3 team. Kudos. I'm trying to understand what else is compelling here? (Springhill is actually D2 but same question assuming they are D1?)
Quote from: Freddyfud on August 31, 2024, 10:51:26 PMQuote from: Kuiper on August 30, 2024, 04:28:31 PMWith both goals scored by Aidan Doyle, a transfer to Wheaton after two years at DI Springhill College
A D3 player earned a brace against a good D3 team. Kudos. I'm trying to understand what else is compelling here? (Springhill is actually D2 but same question assuming they are D1?)
The emphasis was on the transfer (although it would be true if he was a freshman recruit too) more than the division level. In other words, Wheaton may have a new weapon this year they didn't have last season. I tend to think that's the most interesting thing to watch for early in the season. Which teams may have added impact players and tracking them to see if they continue this form and help elevate the team to a new level.
Rowan F&M 2-2. Good comeback by F&M. Rowan played a lowish block in the first half and looked to counter which resulted in 2-0 Rowan lead on only 6 shots at halftime. F&M probably had 80% or more possession. The game opened up in the second half a bit but with Rowan trying to hold the lead and F&M playing with urgency. F&M tied it up in the 86' on a brilliant cross. A tie on the road as they start a difficult away run is not a bad result for Rowan. Next up is a trip to Homewood on Sunday.
The Profs leave another road game with only one point after going ahead 1-0 in the 86 minute. This time it is was a great free kick from the Red Dragons #10 2 minutes later for the draw. Stats at full time were fairly even.
At 2-1-2 after a long road trip against strong competition they should return from Cortland, or as the son called it Canada, perhaps a little disappointed but feeling proud. Next up is the first home game vs Haverford on Tuesday followed by another road trip to the Old Dominion state for MWU and CNU.
Quote from: Freddyfud on September 11, 2024, 06:51:54 PMThe Profs leave another road game with only one point after going ahead 1-0 in the 86 minute. This time it is was a great free kick from the Red Dragons #10 2 minutes later for the draw. Stats at full time were fairly even.
At 2-1-2 after a long road trip against strong competition they should return from Cortland, or as the son called it Canada, perhaps a little disappointed but feeling proud. Next up is the first home game vs Haverford on Tuesday followed by another road trip to the Old Dominion state for MWU and CNU.
If he thinks Cortland is Canada I shudder to think what his thoughts would be if they came up to play SLU or Clarkson some time.
Quote from: stlawus on September 11, 2024, 06:56:17 PMQuote from: Freddyfud on September 11, 2024, 06:51:54 PMThe Profs leave another road game with only one point after going ahead 1-0 in the 86 minute. This time it is was a great free kick from the Red Dragons #10 2 minutes later for the draw. Stats at full time were fairly even.
At 2-1-2 after a long road trip against strong competition they should return from Cortland, or as the son called it Canada, perhaps a little disappointed but feeling proud. Next up is the first home game vs Haverford on Tuesday followed by another road trip to the Old Dominion state for MWU and CNU.
If he thinks Cortland is Canada I shudder to think what his thoughts would be if they came up to play SLU or Clarkson some time.
;D Yea I had the same thought. He is a NC native so even the NJAC is pushing it I suppose. He did call from the road to remark it was the furthest north he had been and enjoyed the scenery. Good for him to see another part of the country. As long as it is still September :)
Montclair St up 2-0 vs John Jay in the first 4 minutes. Looks like this game is not going to be watchable.
Quote from: Freddyfud on September 23, 2024, 07:20:24 PMMontclair St up 2-0 vs John Jay in the first 4 minutes. Looks like this game is not going to be watchable.
7-0 at half. Montclair State has already outshot John Jay 20-3 and 14-0 in shots on goal. They've played 22 players and, of the starters, only the GK played more than 34 minutes. Three goals have been scored by subs. One has only played 2 games and 34 minutes thus far this season and this is his first shot of the season and another one has played 5 games and 128 minutes this season, but this is also his first shot taken of the season.
How did John Jay beat SUNY Canton? Do they want to travel to Abilene, Texas and play McMurry (see the Go WEST thread for more on their game yesterday)?
SERIES HISTORY
Monday night's match will mark the sixth time these two teams duke it out. Montclair not only has a perfect 5-0 record against John Jay, but they have yet to even allow them to score a goal in any of their contests.
LAST MEETING
The last time these two teams met was on September 6 of 2011 where the Red Hawks routed the Bloodhounds, 9-0.
SERIES RESULTS
2011 - 9-0
2007 - 7-0
2005 - 7-0
2004 - 3-0
1999 - 7-0
Heading into an out of conference mid week game vs WAC Rowan's record stands at 4-3-5 overall, and 1-0-2 in conference. The Profs have scored first in all but 4 of their games so far. Out of the 8 games after taking the lead opponents have leveled the score in 4 of them and all within the last 7 minutes of the respective games. And out of the 4 games when the Profs did not score first an eventual game winner was conceded within the last 12 minutes for 2 of them (MWU and CNU.)
The start of the season was challenging with 7 out of 9 away out of conference games against many ranked teams. But the trend of conceding late has continued in conference with Rutgers Newark and Rutgers Camden. Newark and Rutgers deserve credit by being stronger at the end of the games resulting in equalizers on both counts.
I haven't seen NPI rankings yet but assume despite their SOS the Profs will need an AQ for the post season. In any case if they can't figure out how to finish games with 7 remaining any post season play would be a surprise.
In a battle of conference unbeatens Rowan tops Montclair State 1-0. Very even match as it looked as though neither team would break through the opposing defense. Only 6 shots in the first half combined and most of those were within the last 15 minutes of the half. Both keepers were up for the task with some great saves tonight.
With 3 conference games left there is only 1 point separating both of these teams for the #1 seed. And with Rutgers Camden winning and Ramapo tying today they are both currently tied for points in 3rd place. In the remaining 3 games respectively Montclair State plays both while Rowan plays Ramapo.
Rowan downs Kean last night 3-0 securing a bye for the NJAC tournament. Despite the score it was not a dominating effort. Evidently a tale of 2 halves as all 3 goals were scored in the second. Someone at work dared to schedule a meeting so I missed much of the first half.
Any concerns about Rowan consistency are legitimate. Arguably the only dominating end to end performance was their second game back in August against St Mary's MD. Strengths are a top line including a clinical finisher and a converted defender with deceptive speed and play making ability plus a middle back anchored by both CBs and GK Aportella who is having a great senior year. For the season they have conceded three goals on free kicks outside the box plus one PK. No other set pieces including corners have resulted in goals. Opponents are finding no success on long balls into the box.
This leaves other aspects such as the middle third needing improvement for the sake of consistency. There are too many giveaways as evidenced in the first half last night. Unlike some previous opponents Kean was not able to take advantage.
Next up is Senior Day on Saturday vs Ramapo.
Quote from: Freddyfud on October 24, 2024, 07:48:44 PMRowan downs Kean last night 3-0 securing a bye for the NJAC tournament. Despite the score it was not a dominating effort. Evidently a tale of 2 halves as all 3 goals were scored in the second. Someone at work dared to schedule a meeting so I missed much of the first half.
Any concerns about Rowan consistency are legitimate. Arguably the only dominating end to end performance was their second game back in August against St Mary's MD. Strengths are a top line including a clinical finisher and a converted defender with deceptive speed and play making ability plus a middle back anchored by both CBs and GK Aportella who is having a great senior year. For the season they have conceded three goals on free kicks outside the box plus one PK. No other set pieces including corners have resulted in goals. Opponents are finding no success on long balls into the box.
This leaves other aspects such as the middle third needing improvement for the sake of consistency. There are too many giveaways as evidenced in the first half last night. Unlike some previous opponents Kean was not able to take advantage.
Next up is Senior Day on Saturday vs Ramapo.
When Rowan is good, they can be good. When they are not, they look very disorganized. Just depends on the day. I was high on them early, but as you say their lack of consistency is my biggest concern.
SC.
Rowan wins at TCNJ to finish undefeated in the NJAC and win the conference championship and the #1 seed in the tournament. Saturday's first round games are Stockton (3) vs Kean (6) and Rutgers-Camden (4) vs Rutgers-Newark (5). Montclair State has the other first round bye by finishing second with a 6-2-1 conference record.
NJAC final is set. Stockton upsets Montclair St to meet Rowan in Glassboro Friday night. Rowan defeated Rutgers Camden 1-0 in a close match. Almost a repeat of the regular season match when Rowan went up 1-0 only to concede a leveler late in the game. Rutgers Camden had possession for most of the final 20 minutes with many threats including corners and free kicks outside the box. This time they were unable to convert. Dylan Aportella in goal for Rowan with another clean sheet to make it 7 in a row. Was impressed with Rutgers Camden defense. They have only given up 15 goals in 19 matches this season which puts them at 41st in the country for GAA.
Rowan last played Stockton away on Oct 16 and won 2-0. Should be an interesting final.
QuoteThey have only given up 15 goals in 19 matches this season which puts them at 41st in the country for GAA.
Sweeny, Castro and the goalie are very solid! what now becomes of Montclair?
Quote from: camosfan on November 06, 2024, 08:52:23 AMQuoteThey have only given up 15 goals in 19 matches this season which puts them at 41st in the country for GAA.
Sweeny, Castro and the goalie are very solid! what now becomes of Montclair?
To add their outside back Garwood was clamps in the first game vs Rowan and another solid performance last night.
As for Montclair I see they dropped 9 places to 50 in NPI. If I understand correctly their only quality wins are Vassar and Carnegie Mellon. Both have at least one more tournament game so guessing that is upside potential. As for what all of this means for a Pool C bid I would have to consult my Magic 8 Ball. Too many AQs still undecided at this point it seems. If I had to guess I'd say 50 is not going to make it.
good game underway at Rowan, conference finals.
Rowan defeats a quality Stockton side 3-1 to win the NJAC tournament and the AQ. Stockton took the lead 1-0 into halftime. Rowan scored 3 in the second half for their first come from behind win of the season.
Montclair State going DII in soccer - sort of (https://montclairathletics.com/news/2024/12/13/general-montclair-state-university-to-launch-realigned-athletics-and-recreation-program-in-2025.aspx)
I haven't seen this kind of merger before, but the changing landscape demands new ideas. Bloomfield College, a historically black college in NJ, merged into Montclair State over the summer, while retaining a separate identity as Bloomfield College of Montclair State University. From an athletics perspective, the problem is Bloomfield has DII sports and Montclair State has DIII. Plus, they have a lot of duplicate teams. So, now they have announced that they are doing both in a few sports and closing others and increasing club sports.
The interesting twist to this is Bloomfield's soccer team was 1-12-2 in DII last season. I wonder if a Bloomfield player could shift over to Montclair State's roster in the offseason (and potentially upgrade the quality of their team). Would it require a transfer?
QuoteMontclair State University is pursuing a bold new vision for collegiate athletics designed to strengthen its commitment to student-athlete wellbeing and expand opportunities for participation while responding to emerging trends and opportunities.
This includes the incorporation of Bloomfield College of Montclair State University as part of a unified athletics and recreation program. Preserving the athletic traditions of New Jersey's only four-year Predominantly Black Institution was a priority in the design process.
The newly merged Athletic and Recreation Department will aim to foster a campuswide healthy lifestyle by providing comprehensive tools, programs, and activities throughout the year, ensuring all students have opportunities to engage and thrive.
Montclair will sponsor 21 intercollegiate athletics programs at the NCAA Division II and Division III level and increase recreational and club sports opportunities, offering what the University sees as a national model of a dynamic response to the changing landscape of college athletics. Subject to NCAA approval, the new approach will become effective for the fall 2025 semester.
QuoteFour Bloomfield programs – men's and women's basketball, men's soccer and softball – will continue to compete at the NCAA Division II level, with Bloomfield maintaining affiliate membership in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC).
The remaining Bloomfield sports, baseball and women's volleyball, will transition to club status to ensure more access to all students to participate in the sports at a competitive level.
"Preserving Bloomfield College's athletics program solidifies our commitment to honoring its rich history and unique identity," says Montclair Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life Dawn Meza Soufleris. "We are dedicated to upholding the mission of Bloomfield College and ensuring that students continue to have access to transformative opportunities both on and off the field.
Expanding Access to Athletics Opportunities
The new model will also significantly expand opportunities for all students to participate in club sports and recreation programs to help foster a collaborative, student-centered athletic environment and cross-campus participation.
In addition to the new club programs, the University will also seek to develop additional club and recreational programs based on student need and demand.
Bloomfield's successful ESports program will also remain a cornerstone of the Bloomfield experience, and Montclair will make additional investments into the program for future expansion to respond to growing student demand.
Student-athletes in all discontinued programs will have an opportunity to try out for existing NCAA teams or to participate in expanded club sports. The University will also review their individual situations to ensure they receive all financial aid for which they qualify.
Kuiper is an AI-Bot and not a real person ;)
So Montclair will compete in D2 in soccer, that is probably ok for them.
The bad news is that they are dropping Men's and Women's lacrosse. They were not great but they were not bad.
This is a school with 20,000 undergraduate students.
Quote from: SKUD on December 13, 2024, 09:37:43 PMKuiper is an AI-Bot and not a real person ;)
So Montclair will compete in D2 in soccer, that is probably ok for them.
The bad news is that they are dropping Men's and Women's lacrosse. They were not great but they were not bad.
This is a school with 20,000 undergraduate students.
AI bot? I don't even like auto-correct on my phone.
Montclair State men's soccer is still DIII, but Bloomfield College at Montclair State men's soccer is DII and they will both be run by the same athletic department.
I feel like there is a synergy there waiting to be exploited
That is crazy and Kuiper it was a compliment as I don't know how you have all the info without it being your job
Interesting. This sounds like a reverse merger in corporate speak.
I found out about this on social media, from women upset that their lax program was going away. Pretty brutal to announce this with zero chance for those students to find a place to play.
For spring it is 2026 not this spring. Tough on the Cabrini players who transferred to Montclair
Did the Cabrini players improve Montclair?
Quote from: SKUD on December 13, 2024, 09:37:43 PMKuiper is an AI-Bot and not a real person ;)
So Montclair will compete in D2 in soccer, that is probably ok for them.
The bad news is that they are dropping Men's and Women's lacrosse. They were not great but they were not bad.
This is a school with 20,000 undergraduate students.
That is really too bad. MSU obviously was a very competitive program plus an affordable college. Also, D2 is probably has more int'l players right now than D1. Sad to see them go.
As to lax, they definitely were decent at one point, but not too recently.
You all missed the LEAD (or I did not see anyone mention in the thread)!! MSU is starting a women's flag football program to offset the loss of lax!! From this and obv. in its press release - https://www.nj.com/education/2024/12/nj-university-faces-backlash-for-cutting-lacrosse-adding-ncaa-womens-flag-football-team.html -
As part of a unified athletics and recreation program for the merged schools, Montclair State is starting an NCAA Division III women's flag football program to create more access to sports for more students, school officials said.
Flag football is one of the fastest growing in college athletics.Now we all have learned something. You're welcome. 60-40 women to men ratio.
Why flag, why not ultimate frisbee!! Now that is a real sport and not some activity that seemed to replicate some other. That was awesome and I played that as a club sport every spring after soccer. Plus between halves we used to get the hackey sack out while the others discussed which shows they would make on the Deadhead tour. FYI, I was ROTC and could not partake as it paid for my college if you were wondering.
FWIW, flag football is low-key a lot lot kickball in that participation has sky-rocketed... You just have to know where to look to find it.
Shows up on The Ocho from time to time, just like kickball. And spikeball. And cornhole (well, cornhole shows up on the mother ship at this point.)
New Jersey City University, with declining enrollment, to merge with Kean University
https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/education/2025/03/06/new-jersey-city-university-merge-kean-university/81806915007/
Rowan brings in six D1 transfers.
Quote from: BigSoccerFan on March 22, 2025, 11:37:54 AMRowan brings in six D1 transfers.
Well - their coach said that's where they were going to heavily leverage during his Simple Coach interview.....Prob be a few more years of this across the board as the D1 rosters get used to the player restrictions.....Doesn't necessarily feel like that promotes the D3 "philosophy" but that's one man's opinion.....
"D1 transfer" carries a lot of connotations, but in soccer this really does not mean a whole lot unless they are scholarship players from a power conference team.
Not to threadjack, but Hopkins is one of the teams that embraced this approach 3 or 4 years ago (At least that's when I starting noticing) with Grad Transfers from D1 schools and while not everyone of those have hit... Many of those guys have played important roles.
I know it's not a like-for-like situation, but even non-scholarship D1 players are going to be pretty darn good players.
It's not to say they won't make your team worse, you're most likely better off with than without. But it can create significantly unrealistic expectations.
Quote from: stlawus on March 24, 2025, 04:04:33 PMIt's not to say they won't make your team worse, you're most likely better off with than without. But it can create significantly unrealistic expectations.
What expectations? Many played and contributed. Does this make the team better?
Quote from: Kuiper on December 13, 2024, 05:47:35 PMMontclair State going DII in soccer - sort of (https://montclairathletics.com/news/2024/12/13/general-montclair-state-university-to-launch-realigned-athletics-and-recreation-program-in-2025.aspx)
I haven't seen this kind of merger before, but the changing landscape demands new ideas. Bloomfield College, a historically black college in NJ, merged into Montclair State over the summer, while retaining a separate identity as Bloomfield College of Montclair State University. From an athletics perspective, the problem is Bloomfield has DII sports and Montclair State has DIII. Plus, they have a lot of duplicate teams. So, now they have announced that they are doing both in a few sports and closing others and increasing club sports.
The interesting twist to this is Bloomfield's soccer team was 1-12-2 in DII last season. I wonder if a Bloomfield player could shift over to Montclair State's roster in the offseason (and potentially upgrade the quality of their team). Would it require a transfer?
QuoteMontclair State University is pursuing a bold new vision for collegiate athletics designed to strengthen its commitment to student-athlete wellbeing and expand opportunities for participation while responding to emerging trends and opportunities.
This includes the incorporation of Bloomfield College of Montclair State University as part of a unified athletics and recreation program. Preserving the athletic traditions of New Jersey's only four-year Predominantly Black Institution was a priority in the design process.
The newly merged Athletic and Recreation Department will aim to foster a campuswide healthy lifestyle by providing comprehensive tools, programs, and activities throughout the year, ensuring all students have opportunities to engage and thrive.
Montclair will sponsor 21 intercollegiate athletics programs at the NCAA Division II and Division III level and increase recreational and club sports opportunities, offering what the University sees as a national model of a dynamic response to the changing landscape of college athletics. Subject to NCAA approval, the new approach will become effective for the fall 2025 semester.
QuoteFour Bloomfield programs – men's and women's basketball, men's soccer and softball – will continue to compete at the NCAA Division II level, with Bloomfield maintaining affiliate membership in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC).
The remaining Bloomfield sports, baseball and women's volleyball, will transition to club status to ensure more access to all students to participate in the sports at a competitive level.
"Preserving Bloomfield College's athletics program solidifies our commitment to honoring its rich history and unique identity," says Montclair Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life Dawn Meza Soufleris. "We are dedicated to upholding the mission of Bloomfield College and ensuring that students continue to have access to transformative opportunities both on and off the field.
Expanding Access to Athletics Opportunities
The new model will also significantly expand opportunities for all students to participate in club sports and recreation programs to help foster a collaborative, student-centered athletic environment and cross-campus participation.
In addition to the new club programs, the University will also seek to develop additional club and recreational programs based on student need and demand.
Bloomfield's successful ESports program will also remain a cornerstone of the Bloomfield experience, and Montclair will make additional investments into the program for future expansion to respond to growing student demand.
Student-athletes in all discontinued programs will have an opportunity to try out for existing NCAA teams or to participate in expanded club sports. The University will also review their individual situations to ensure they receive all financial aid for which they qualify.
To update the end result of the Montclair acquisition of Bloomfield college, it now appears that Bloomfield is cutting women's volleyball and baseball and moving the rest of its athletic department from DII to USCCA for 2025-2026
https://bcbearsathletics.com/news/2025/7/15/general-bloomfield-college-of-montclair-state-university-athletics-to-transition-to-uscaa-affiliation.aspx
QuoteServing as the latest development in Montclair State University's vision for the future of athletics and recreation in higher education, Bloomfield College of Montclair State University will transition four of its intercollegiate athletics programs from NCAA Division II to the United States Collegiate Athletics Association (USCAA) for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Bloomfield's men's and women's basketball, men's soccer and softball teams will move to the USCAA, which creates national competition for small colleges of similar size to develop the minds, bodies and spirits of student-athletes.
Bloomfield's USCAA sports will be scholarship eligible, continuing the institution's sports tradition as part of Montclair's reimagined athletics and recreation model designed to create more opportunities for competition at all levels.
"This transition represents a significant step forward for our athletic program, allowing us to better align with our mission and values," says Deputy Director of Athletics Sheila Wooten. "Our student-athletes will benefit from increased opportunities for competition and growth, and we are excited to build new rivalries and traditions within the USCAA. We believe this change will enhance the overall experience for our athletes, coaches, and fans. We look forward to this new chapter in our athletic journey."
The Bears will compete in the North American Conference for Intercollegiate Athletics (NACIA) against schools including Bryant and Stratton College (Syracuse, Buffalo, Albany, Ohio and Rochester campuses), Berkeley College, Five Towns College and Villa Maria College.
Bloomfield's women's volleyball and baseball programs will be discontinued. All Bloomfield students interested in playing these sports will have the opportunity to try out for Montclair State University NCAA Division III programs or participate in club sports offerings.
"This move allows us to preserve and reimagine Bloomfield's athletics legacy in a way that reflects both our commitment to student opportunity and our responsibility to sustainability," says Montclair Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life Dawn Soufleris. "Competing in the USCAA ensures that our student-athletes continue to grow, thrive, and represent Bloomfield College of Montclair State University with pride. We're excited about this next chapter and the new pathways it opens for athletic excellence and engagement."
Rowan picked to win the NJAC (https://njacsports.com/news/2025/8/27/rowan-picked-as-2025-njac-mens-soccer-preseason-favorite.aspx). The NJAC also picks some team to be the "dark horse" and they chose TCNJ this season. After only winning two games last season with an assistant basketball coach running the team, it's hard to believe they can get much worse now that they have hired a soccer coach.
2025 NJAC Men's Soccer Preseason Poll
(first place votes in parentheses)
1. Rowan (8)
2. Montclair State (1)
3. Stockton
4. Rutgers-Camden
5. Ramapo
6. Rutgers-Newark
7. Kean (1)
8. TCNJ (dark horse)
9. William Paterson
10. NJCU
The individual team previews are worth reading. Rowan has 7 DI transfers, plus an All Region V and Centennial Conference 2nd team centerback from Muhlenberg, Evan Schlotterbeck, who started 52 of 59 games over three years (including 2g/4a in 2024) as a grad transfer?! If their GK, Dylan Aportela left (he only played 3 years, but he was listed as a senior), GK would be one of their only holes to fill.
QuoteROWAN
Rowan enters 2025 as both the preseason favorite and a team recognized nationally, earning votes in the United Soccer Coaches preseason poll. The Profs bring back reigning NJAC Offensive Player of the Year and All-American Johnny Troiano, who led the league in goals (16) and points (39), as well as three-time all-conference forward Ryan Cleary, who added nine goals. On the defensive side, Greg Ferreira and Aiden McGuigan return after logging heavy minutes for one of the NJAC's top back lines. Rowan also adds significant depth with several Division I transfers, including players from Monmouth and La Salle. With a potent mix of proven scorers and experienced defenders, the Profs are built for another title run.
Newcomers to Watch: Evan Schlotterbeck (B; Cherry Hill, NJ/Muhlenberg College), Luke McNamee (F; Pearl River, NY/Monmouth University), Christian McGillen (M; Pennsburg, PA/La Salle University)
Head Coach Scott Baker: "The program returns the core of our team and adds in seven Division I transfers and one graduate transfer."
MONTCLAIR STATE
Montclair State will look to retool after graduating two of the program's most decorated players in recent memory, NJAC Midfielder of the Year Osbin Mendez and two-time NJAC Defensive Player of the Year Ian Chesney. Midfielder Diego Flores is among the returners expected to step into a bigger role, while defender Sebastian Lapczynski brings stability to the backline after starting 17 matches last fall. The Red Hawks also welcome a talented incoming class highlighted by midfielder John Carey and forward Danny Tobon, both of whom are expected to compete immediately. With a blend of new talent and experienced returners, Montclair State will aim to stay near the top of the standings.
Newcomers to Watch: John Carey (M; Norwood, NJ/St. Peter's Prep), Danny Tobon (F; Clifton, NJ/Clifton)
Head Coach Todd Tumelty: "We are excited to get the new season started. This year's team is a mix of returners and a big group of new faces. I'm looking forward to seeing the vets step up as leaders and help guide the newcomers in the Montclair way."
STOCKTON
Stockton brings back an experienced lineup that reached the NJAC Finals last season, including offensive leaders Aiden Hoenisch and Ernst Louisius. Louisius ranked among the league's top scorers with eight goals and led the NJAC in game-winners (5), while Hoenisch, a two-time all-conference midfielder, returns after missing most of 2024. Defensively, the Ospreys return Nicolas Calambas and Noah Jones, both of whom started every match and logged over 1,600 minutes while leading the Ospreys to nine shutouts. Two-time all-conference honoree Uche Wokocha also returns to anchor the midfield. With just two seniors graduated, Stockton combines veteran leadership with a strong group of first-year players ready to contribute.
Newcomers to Watch: Will Lynch (M; Bensalem, PA/Notre Dame HS), Christian Pereira (F; Jersey City, NJ/St. Peter's Prep), Alexander Zuniga (M; Pompton Lakes, NJ/Pompton Lakes)
Head Coach Greg Ruttler: "Having only graduated two seniors, we have an experienced returning group that made it to the NJAC Finals last season. In addition to the experience of our returners, we have also added a very talented group of first-year players."
RUTGERS-CAMDEN
Rutgers-Camden returns four all-conference players, highlighted by defender Eric Swen, a three-time honoree and the 2023 NJAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year. Midfielders Brandon Valeri and Joseph Lodise and defender Jason Garwood round out a strong veteran core that will anchor the Scarlet Raptors on both sides of the field. While scoring punch will need to be developed, Camden's proven defensive unit and talented recruiting class provide a solid foundation for another postseason push.
Newcomers to Watch: Declan Capps (M/B; Moorestown, NJ/Moorestown), Judah Cooper (M; Essington, PA/Delaware County Christian), Antonio Yantas (M; Hopewell, NJ/Hopewell Valley)
Head Coach Tim Oswald: "We have a young talented team that's looking to build upon previous success after NJAC semifinal appearances in two of the last three seasons. With a tough out-of-conference schedule, we are looking to use that experience to prepare for the NJAC."
RAMAPO
Ramapo boasts one of the league's most dangerous duos in midfielder Kyle Allen and forward Gianfranco Ponce, who combined for 19 goals and 46 points last fall. Allen earned Second Team NJAC honors after ranking among the league leaders in goals and game-winners, while Ponce was named NJAC Rookie of the Year after a breakout 10-goal campaign. With that tandem returning to lead the offense and a solid nucleus of starters back across the field, the Roadrunners have the pieces in place to contend.
Newcomers to Watch: Dylan Perez (M; Clifton, NJ/Clifton), David Oh (F; Northvale, NJ/Northern Valley Old Tappan)
Head Coach DJ Pinton: "Ramapo returns a good nucleus of returning starters from last season."
RUTGERS-NEWARK
Rutgers-Newark returns one of the NJAC's most prolific scorers in forward Erick Cortes, who finished tied for second in the conference with 13 goals and ranked third with 28 points. Midfielder Edgar Silva adds balance with six goals and five assists, while defender Michael Reis brings stability to the backline after logging over 1,000 minutes last year. The Scarlet Raiders also welcome a deep recruiting class highlighted by Gabe Gomez, Chihiro Suenaga, and goalkeeper David Bejarano, each of whom is expected to push for playing time. With a core of all-conference returners, Rutgers-Newark has the firepower to stay in the mix.
Newcomers to Watch: Gabe Gomez (F/M; Kearny, NJ/Kearny), Chihiro Suenaga (M; Hasbrouck Heights, NJ/Hasbrouck Heights), David Bejarano (GK; Old Bridge, NJ/FDU-Teaneck)
Head Coach Kevin East: "We brought in a number of players that will add depth to the squad in all positions. Several should push for immediate playing time and increase overall competitiveness."
KEAN
Kean brings back two-time all-conference forward Donte East, the Cougars' leading scorer, along with veteran Marvin Munoz, who started 11 matches a year ago. On the backline, David Camargo and Daniel Nigro return as reliable defensive anchors, with Camargo earning all-conference recognition after starting every game. The Cougars also add young talent in forward Matthew Sarfo and midfielder Matthew Moya, providing energy to complement the experienced group. With a strong blend of returners and newcomers, Kean looks to be competitive across the conference slate.
Newcomers to Watch: Matthew Sarfo (F; Little Egg Harbor, NJ/Pinelands Regional), Matthew Moya (M; Oradell, NJ/Bergen Catholic)
Head Coach Jairo Munoz: "We have a solid team with a good combination of experience and young players."
TCNJ
TCNJ will rely on a pair of forwards to lead the attack in junior Matias Hornos, a Second Team All-NJAC honoree who paced the Lions with 14 points, and Chris Meder, who added two goals and three assists. In the midfield, seniors JJ Zaun and John Ramos return after combining for nearly 40 appearances and will provide leadership for a young roster. With several talented newcomers ready to contribute, including defender Lawrence Mancino and forward/midfielder Matthew Will, the Lions are a team to watch.
Newcomers to Watch: Lawrence Mancino (B; Holmdel, NJ/Christian Brothers Academy), Matthew Will (F/M; Collingswood, NJ/Moorestown Friends), Aidan Grund (M; West Windsor, NJ/West Windsor-Plainsboro South)
Head Coach Steven DeMatteo: "We're excited for the season to start and to continue building on where we left off this past spring. There's a great energy and motivation within the team right now as we get ready to compete. We're looking forward to blending what we feel is a strong incoming class with an experienced and driven group of returning players to make for a competitive and dynamic squad."
WILLIAM PATERSON
William Paterson will look to replace the scoring production of Diego Navas, who tallied 34 points last fall, but the Pioneers return a strong supporting cast. Midfielder Matthew Escobar, a Second Team All-NJAC honoree, tied for fourth in the league with six assists, while forward Davide Zamuner is the team's leading returning scorer with six goals. Defensively, Jimmy Bruno and Delvin Nketia return after logging more than 1,000 minutes apiece, bringing experience to the backline. The Pioneers also add international talent in goalkeeper Riccardo Prati from Italy and several promising freshmen.
Newcomers to Watch: Adrian Qira (F; Paramus, NJ/Paramus), Niko Pierce (M; Westfield, NJ/Westfield), Riccardo Prati (GK; Settimo Milanese, Italy)
Head Coach Matt Heitmann: "We're excited about the leadership group we have this season. We're impressed with the performance and potential of our incoming recruiting class. This group is motivated and focused on building on the progress we made last season."
NJCU
NJCU enters 2025 looking to rebuild with a mix of returners and transfers. Forward Kevin Alves started all 17 matches last season and will be a key piece offensively, while Dominic Celi will look to step into a bigger role after earning minutes in reserve. Defensively, Jonathan Cabellero returns with experience, and goalkeeper Dominic Cunha anchors the back after logging nearly 1,500 minutes with four shutouts. The Gothic Knights also welcome an international recruiting class, including Jose Orozco from South Africa and goalkeeper Camilo Pascual from Spain, both of whom bring college experience.
Newcomers to Watch: Augusto Viera (M; Kearny, NJ/Kearny), Jose Orozco (M; Johannesburg, South Africa/West Virginia Tech), Camilo Pascual (GK; Alcog, Spain/Felician University)
Head Coach Brendan Guzman: "This year's squad will be a rebuild using a great foundation. We were able to put a competitive team together amidst being in such a transitional period for the University and team. We look forward to creating some chaos in the NJAC standings."
Montclair State's roster is up. Looks like they have a few D1 transfers also. NJIT, Rider, and Jasksonville University. The rest looks like a younger roster.