ANNVILLE, PA (August 18, 2025) - The DeSales University women's soccer team was picked to finish third in the MAC Freedom preseason poll, released by the conference office Monday morning. The poll was voted on by the eight head coaches in the conference.
The Bulldogs totaled 33 points, finishing just behind Stevens and Misericordia, who tied for first with 46 points each. Arcadia placed fourth with 32 points, just one behind DeSales.
DSU finished the 2024 season with an overall record of 6-12-2, including a 3-3-1 mark in MAC Freedom play. The Bulldogs earned the #3 seed in last year's MAC Freedom postseason tournament, falling to Stevens in the MAC Freedom semifinals.
Junior Madison O'Connor returns after starting all 20 games last season. She tallied four goals and two assists and was named to the All-MAC Freedom Second Team. Junior co-captain
Cathrine Crampton also returns to the field ranking third on the team in scoring last season with two goals and four assists for eight points.
Other top returnees include junior Jaden Cook and sophomore Saige Santa Cruz who reached Honorable-Mention All-MAC Freedom honors a year ago. Cook was fourth on the team in scoring with two goals and three assists, despite missing eight games due to injury and Santa Cruz started 19-of-20 games in goal recording 76 saves.
Head Coach Melina Couzis, is back on the sidelines for her second season leading the Bulldogs.
DeSales opens the 2025 season hosting William and Smith on August 29th. The Bulldogs homecoming game this year is September 27 versus Immaculata University at 4:00pm. MAC Freedom conference play will begin on October 4, with the Bulldogs hosting Delaware Valley University.
MAC Freedom Pre-Season Poll (first place votes)
T-1. Misericordia – 46 points (4)
T-1. Stevens – 46 points (4)
3. DeSales University – 33 points
4. Arcadia – 32 points
T-5. FDU-Florham – 23 points
T-5. Lebanon Valley – 23 points
7. King's - 14 points
8. Delaware Valley – 7 points
