Villanova women's soccer is gaining recognition with three players honored in the Preseason All-BIG EAST list, led by graduate goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson, who was named Goalkeeper of the Year. The Wildcats are projected to finish fifth in the conference, marking the highest preseason ranking since 2013. Alongside Dickinson, sophomore forward Avrie Nelsen and senior midfielder Gabby Koluch earned their first preseason accolades after solid performances last season. Villanova concluded its 2025 season with a commendable overall record and is aiming to build on that success in the upcoming campaign.

By the Numbers
  • Villanova finished the 2025 season with a 4-5-1 conference record, and 9-8-1 overall.
  • Hannah Dickinson ended the season with 69 saves, ranking second in the BIG EAST.
Yes, But

Despite the positive outlook, the Wildcats face pressure to improve on a fifth-place conference finish from the prior season. The team's strong preseason recognition must translate into consistent in-game performance to avoid stagnation.

State of Play
  • The team is set to kick off its 2026 season against Syracuse on August 13.
  • Villanova's current standings in the BIG EAST show a competitive landscape, with strong contenders like Georgetown and UConn leading the pack.
What's Next

If the Wildcats capitalize on their strong preseason accolades, they could potentially improve their standings in the BIG EAST. Success in upcoming matches will be crucial for establishing momentum and validating their preseason recognition.

Bottom Line

Villanova's recognition in the Preseason All-BIG EAST showcases their rising profile in women's soccer, but they must convert this recognition into tangible success on the field to realize their potential.