NEW YORK | Following strong performances at the 2025 Skyline Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships, Farmingdale State has been selected as the preseason favorite on both the men’s and women’s sides for the 2026 season, according to the league’s annual coaches’ polls.
On the men’s side, the Rams earned the top spot with 8 points after capturing the 2025 Skyline Championship with 279 points, ahead of United States Merchant Marine Academy (160 points) and Manhattanville University (68 points).
Farmingdale State’s title run was highlighted by dominant performances across both track and field events, including victories in the 4x100 and 4x400 relays, as well as multiple individual event wins in the sprints, jumps, and throws.
Merchant Marine, which placed second at last year’s championship, returns a strong core after posting key performances in distance events and relays, while Manhattanville University showed strength in the sprints and middle-distance events en route to a third-place finish. Mount Saint Mary (16 points) rounded out the standings.
On the women’s side, Farmingdale State enters 2026 as the preseason favorite after finishing second at last year’s championship with 192 points, just behind team champion Merchant Marine (217 points).
Merchant Marine’s title was fueled by standout performances in distance events, hurdles, and relays, while Farmingdale State showcased strength in sprint and field events, including wins in the 4x100 relay and multiple jumping events.
Mount Saint Mary (83 points) placed third in the 2025 standings, followed by Manhattanville University (43 points), as both programs demonstrated depth across multiple event groups.
The 2026 Skyline Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships are scheduled for April 26 at Farmingdale State, with all four programs competing for the conference crowns.
2026 Skyline Conference Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Preseason Poll
Rank School, Points (First-place votes)
1. Farmingdale State, 8(2)
2. Manhattanville University, 7(1)
3. Merchant Marine, 6(1)
4. Mount Saint Mary, 3
2026 Skyline Conference Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Preseason Poll
Rank School, Points (First-place votes)
1. Farmingdale State, 8(2)
T2. Manhattanville University, 6(1)
T2. Merchant Marine, 6(1)
4. Mount Saint Mary, 4