PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Vermont State University Castleton was picked as the favorite to win the Little East Conference (LEC) title in 2025, according to the results of the annual preseason coaches’ poll. The Spartans totaled 34 points and four first-place votes to edge out Keene State College’s 33 points and three first-place votes.
 
Castleton posted an overall record of 16-5 last season and won the 2024 LEC regular season title with an undefeated record in league play, while Keene State went 16-7 overall and finished second in the LEC standings at 5-1. Both team won their respective conference semifinal matches before the Owls topped the host Spartans 3-2 to secure the LEC tournament title and the league’s automatic berth in the NCAA tournament.
 
University of Southern Maine was picked to finish third in the preseason poll, clearing fourth-place Plymouth State University by a single point. The complete 2025 LEC Field Hockey Preseason Coaches’ Poll is as follows. 
 
Institution - Points (First Place Votes)
1. Vermont State Castleton - 34 (4)
2. Keene State - 33 (3)
3. Southern Maine - 22
4. Plymouth State - 21
5. Western Connecticut - 16
6. Eastern Connecticut - 13
7. UMass Dartmouth - 8
 
NOTE: Head coaches are not permitted to vote for their own team.