Cobleskill, NY – The SUNY Cobleskill women's soccer team is set to open the 2025 season after being ranked ninth in the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Preseason Poll, as voted on by the league's coaches. The Fighting Tigers are looking to take strides forward after a rebuilding 2024 campaign.

Head Coach Lucia Liverio enters her second year leading the program and has been encouraged by what she's seen in preseason. With a mix of returning leaders and a large freshman class, Liverio sees plenty of potential for growth.

"There's a fresh energy with this group," said Liverio. "We're still building chemistry, but the foundation is there—communication, eagerness to learn, and a real drive to compete. I'm excited to see how we develop as the season goes on."

Cobleskill will lean on several key returners, including First-Team All-Conference selections Jessica Carney (Hopkinton, NH/Hopkinton) and Kayleigh Bryant (Schenevus, NY), along with Honorable Mention honoree Samantha Rotundo (New Egypt, NJ). Rotundo transitioned from the field to goalkeeper midway through last season and made an immediate impact, finishing second in the NAC with a .826 save percentage and ranking third in saves per game (7.13).

"Our veterans are crucial," Liverio added. "Kayleigh anchors the backline with her leadership, Jessie sets the tempo in the midfield, and Sam has proven she can make a difference in goal. They've set the tone for our younger players and really embraced guiding this team forward."

Among the newcomers, freshman defender Amanda Rice (Cobleskill, NY/Cobleskill-Richmondville) and goalkeeper Samantha Fausti (Clayton, WA/Deer Park) highlight a group expected to contribute this season.

"Our newcomers are just as important as our returners. Sammy and Sam push each other in goal every day, Amanda has brought a steadying presence at center back, and Alexa and Gabby Downey set the pace in the midfield. EmmaJo adds another dimension with her ability to strike the ball. Each of them brings something unique, and that depth makes us stronger."

The Fighting Tigers open their season on the road Friday, August 29, when they travel to face the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford in a non-conference matchup at 5:00 p.m.