Cobleskill, N.Y. – The SUNY Cobleskill women's soccer team is set to open the 2026 season as the Fighting Tigers begin their first year of competition in the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC).

Cobleskill enters the fall looking to take another step forward following a rebuilding 2025 campaign where they finished 1-11 overall and 1-8 in the conference. With a mix of experienced returners and a large freshman class, interim head coach William Bogue has been encouraged by the progress and energy he has seen throughout preseason.

"There has been a great energy and sense of purpose throughout preseason, and the team has embraced the challenge of building something special together," said Bogue. "As we head into SUNYAC play, our mindset is to compete every day, continue growing as a team and establish a standard of work ethic, accountability and belief that will define Cobleskill women's soccer moving forward."

The Fighting Tigers will lean on several key returners, led by senior and former All-Conference selection Kayleigh Bryant (Schenevus, N.Y.), along with sophomores Amanda Rice (Cobleskill, N.Y.), Sammy Fausti (Clayton, Wash./Deer Park) and Alexa Siegel (Cornwall, N.Y.).

Bryant and Rice will provide experience along the back line, while Fausti returns between the posts after a strong first collegiate season. Fausti averaged 8.4 saves per game and recorded one shutout victory during her freshman campaign.

Bryant will also play an important role going forward after leading Cobleskill with three assists while adding three goals last season. Gabby Downey (Carthage, N.Y.) and Seigal will provide additional options in the attack after each finding the back of the net during the 2025 season.

"Our returning players have been instrumental in setting the tone and establishing our expectations from day one," Bogue said. "Players like Kayleigh, Sammy, Amanda and Alex bring valuable experience, leadership and consistency, while our returning group as a whole provides the foundation and competitive mentality we need as we enter a challenging SUNYAC schedule."

Cobleskill also welcomes a large freshman class, with nine newcomers joining the program and competing for opportunities to make an immediate impact.

"Our newcomers have brought tremendous energy, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, and they have quickly become an important part of our team," said Bogue. "They add athleticism, competition and new perspectives to the group, and we are excited about the depth and potential they bring as we continue to develop our identity. We are especially excited about what Colette, Kayla, Kailin and Liana can bring to the team."

With a blend of returning leadership and new talent, the Fighting Tigers will look to establish their identity while competing through their first SUNYAC schedule.
Cobleskill opens the 2026 season on the road on Sunday, September 6, when the Fighting Tigers travel to face Russell Sage College in a non-conference matchup at 2 p.m.
 
 
2026 SUNYAC Women's Soccer Preseason Poll
1. Cortland, 121
2. Plattsburgh, 109
3. Fredonia, 95
4. Oswego, 88
5. Buffalo State, 81
5. Oneonta, 81
7. Potsdam, 56
8. Alfred State, 47
9. Delhi, 44
10. Morrisville, 33
11. Canton, 25
12. Cobleskill, 12