1/3/2026
As voted by the GNAC coaches
The GNAC preseason men’s volleyball poll reflects a clear hierarchy at the top, followed by a competitive middle tier and programs focused on rebuilding momentum. Using the 2024–25 season as the foundation, the rankings align closely with conference results while still leaving room for movement once the 2026 season begins.
1. Wentworth Leopards
2025 Conference: 13–1
2025 Overall: 26–7
Wentworth enters the season as the unanimous favorite after a dominant 13–1 conference campaign and a 26–7 overall record. The Leopards separated themselves from the field last season with consistent execution and depth across the lineup. Until proven otherwise, Wentworth remains the program everyone else is chasing in the GNAC.
2. Lasell Lasers
2025 Conference: 12–2
2025 Overall: 23–8
Lasell once again sits firmly in the title conversation after finishing just one match behind Wentworth in conference play. The Lasers’ 23–8 overall record reinforces their standing as a complete and reliable contender capable of pressuring the league’s top team throughout the season.
3. Emmanuel Saints
2025 Conference: 10–4
2025 Overall: 19–12
Emmanuel takes the third spot after posting a strong 10–4 conference mark. The Saints proved they could consistently win within the GNAC and finished with a winning overall record. Their ability to compete week to week keeps them positioned solidly in the upper tier entering 2026.
4. Regis Pride
2025 Conference: 7–7
2025 Overall: 20–12
Regis lands just behind Emmanuel despite finishing .500 in conference play. A 20–12 overall record suggests the Pride were competitive beyond league action, and coaches appear confident that experience and non-conference success can translate into upward movement within the GNAC standings.
5. Rivier Raiders
2025 Conference: 6–8
2025 Overall: 11–17
Rivier slots in at No. 5 after a challenging season that included a sub-.500 conference finish. The Raiders showed flashes but struggled with consistency. Improvement in close matches will be key if Rivier hopes to climb the standings in 2026.
6. Emerson Lions
2025 Conference: 5–9
2025 Overall: 9–17
Emerson follows closely behind Rivier after a 5–9 conference season. The Lions remain competitive in stretches but will need greater stability across the schedule to push into the top half of the league.
7. Elms Blazers
2025 Conference: 3–11
2025 Overall: 6–23
Elms endured a difficult season in 2025, finishing near the bottom of the standings. The Blazers will look to reset and focus on development, with progress measured by competitiveness and growth rather than immediate results.
8. Dean Bulldogs
2025 Conference: 0–14
2025 Overall: 3–23
Dean rounds out the preseason rankings after a winless conference season. The Bulldogs enter 2026 focused on rebuilding and incremental improvement, with an emphasis on closing gaps and gaining experience against conference opponents.
GNAC 2026 Preseason Rankings (Top to Bottom)
- Wentworth
- Lasell
- Emmanuel
- Regis
- Rivier
- Emerson
- Elms
- Dean