The preseason USCHO Division III Men’s Poll, released on October 12, captured the national outlook heading into the upcoming season. Following a strong 2025-26 campaign, the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA) enters the season with four programs featured inside the national top 15, headlined by Aurora coming in at No. 3.

Aurora leads the conference ranked No. 3 in the nation after earning 246 points. Coming off a historic 25-6-1 record last season, the Spartans enter the year as the highest-ranked team in the West, positioned directly behind Hamilton (293 points) and Hobart (287 points). Aurora aims to leverage its returning core to build on last year's deep postseason run and maintain its spot near the top of the national rankings.

St. Norbert opens the season at No. 4 in the country, receiving 223 points in the poll. The Green Knights posted a 22-7-2 record last winter and start the new year right behind their conference rivals from Aurora. With a strong defensive foundation and proven playoff experience, St. Norbert enters the year positioned as a prime contender both within the NCHA and on the national stage.

Adrian holds down the No. 8 position nationally after collecting 156 points in the preseason poll. The Bulldogs, who finished 20-7-1 last season, remain a perennial force in Division III hockey. Looking to climb back into the top-5 as the season unfolds, Adrian brings a dangerous offense into non-conference and league play.

Trine rounds out the ranked NCHA contingent at No. 14 with 31 points. Coming off an 18-8-2 campaign, the Thunder continue to cement their position among the national elite. Trine provides the NCHA with a formidable fourth top-15 squad heading into opening weekend.

As the 2026-27 season gets underway, the NCHA continues to boast four ranked teams in the country, setting the stage for what promises to be another highly competitive campaign across the league.