The CCAA claimed two of the top 5 spots on the United Soccer Coaches preseason poll, with Cal State LA beginning the year ranked No. 1 and Cal Poly Poly Pomona coming in at No. 5.
 
Cal State LA is the reigning NCAA Division II National Champions after securing a 1-0 win over Charleston. The Golden Eagles went unbeaten in its final 18 matches and finished the season with an 18-2-3 record. During the 2021 campaign, Cal State LA hung its hat in its defense, one of the country's best units. The Golden Eagles ranked second in Division II in goals against average (0.54) and third in shutout percentage (.565). They also led the nation in save percentage (.879). During its run to the national championship, the Cal State LA defense allowed just two goals in five playoff matches, including zero in the semifinals or championship matches.
 
Cal Poly Pomona had a great postseason run in 2021, going from the No. 7 seed to the Super Regional Championship match. The Broncos went 14-5-4 last season and were the last team to defeat Cal State LA (Sept. 25). They won their first three playoff matches, including knocking off the No. 8 and No. 17 teams in the country. Cal Poly Pomona paced the CCAA and ranked 15th in the NCAA with 53 goals while giving up the lowest shots on goal per game in the league. It will bring back 2021 CCAA Newcomer of the Year and second-leading goal scorer Paul Henschke.
 
The Golden Eagles will open their season on Aug. 25 against Saint Martin's in Burnaby, British Columbia. The Broncos will kick off their season the same day against Point Loma in San Diego. 

United Soccer Coaches Preseason Rankings