LOCAL TEAMS MAKING AN IMPACT ON 2025 PRESEASON POLLS

Following a strong performance last year, all of Southern Oregon University’s (SOU) fall athletic programs have been ranked in the top five of their respective conferences in preseason polls. These rankings further prove that Southern Oregon can’t go unnoticed in the world of sports at any level. Here are the rankings: 

The Raiders have been ranked 5th in the preseason Cascade Conference polls this year among a very competitive group of teams. With a predominately veteran squad returning, the program is set for yet another great year of soccer.

SOU’s men's soccer team was ranked 2nd in the Cascade Conference preseason poll. Following an impressive last season, the roster boasts a strong mix of returning players and exciting new talent.

Following a conference title and a historic semifinal appearance in the national tournament last year, SOU volleyball has been ranked 3rd in the Cascade Conference preseason poll. Despite graduating their entire starting lineup, the team was also voted 6th in the NAIA polls, promising another great season from the Raiders.

After finishing second in the conference last year and top 20 at the national tournament, the Raiders’ women’s cross country team have been ranked 4th in this year’s preseason polls. The team has some strong returning talent who performed extremely well during the spring track season.

The men’s cross country team is holding strong at 5th place in the Cascade Conference preseason polls after securing the spot last season. The team performed well in the spring and is looking competitive for the season ahead.

Raider football was selected to finish 2nd in the Frontier Conference’s West division, also receiving one first place vote. This ranking is an improvement from last year where they were ranked third, following a near miss to qualify for the national tournament. As the forward momentum continues, it is sure to be another great season for the program.

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The Rogue Community College Ospreys Men's soccer team was ranked 8th in the preseason coaches poll for the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC). The team is looking toward another competitive season after making it to the quarterfinal round of the playoffs last season.