D3 Coaches Poll: Top 10 Programs in the Country for 2024 Revealed

As the 2024 season kicks off in Division III athletics, the latest D3 Coaches Poll has unveiled the top 10 programs in the country, showcasing the elite teams across a variety of sports. These rankings are based on the opinions of coaches from across the nation, who have weighed in on the strength, performance, and potential of their respective programs heading into the season. The D3 Coaches Poll highlights the depth of talent and the fierce competition that exists at the Division III level, where schools across the country battle for national prominence while maintaining a commitment to academic excellence.

The top 10 teams in the D3 Coaches Poll represent a wide range of sports, from football to basketball, soccer, and more. These programs have consistently demonstrated excellence in their respective fields and have been recognized for their ability to compete at the highest levels of Division III competition.

### 1. **Mount Union (Football)**
For the third consecutive year, Mount Union has earned the top spot in the D3 Coaches Poll. The Purple Raiders, led by head coach Vince Kehres, have established themselves as the premier football program in the country, with a storied history of success. They are known for their dominance in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) and their continued excellence in the NCAA Division III playoffs. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising underclassmen, Mount Union looks poised to continue its reign as the national powerhouse.

### 2. **North Central (Football)**
North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, has risen to become one of the top football programs in the nation. After a successful 2023 season, where they reached the NCAA championship game, North Central is once again a force to be reckoned with. Head coach Jeff Thorne has built a winning culture, and the Cardinals are ready to challenge for another national title in 2024.

### 3. **Wisconsin-Whitewater (Football)**
The Warhawks from UW-Whitewater have long been one of the most successful programs in Division III football, and this season is no different. Under head coach Kevin Bullis, the Warhawks consistently feature some of the best players in the country, and their strong defensive and offensive units make them a tough matchup for any opponent. Whitewater’s ability to reload year after year places them firmly in the top three.

### 4. **Emory (Basketball)**
In men’s basketball, Emory University has solidified itself as one of the top programs in Division III. The Eagles have been known for their disciplined approach to the game, mixing high-scoring offense with suffocating defense. With a roster full of skilled players, Emory is aiming for a deep run in the NCAA tournament and possibly a national title.

### 5. **Wheaton (Football)**
Another powerhouse from Illinois, Wheaton College continues to be a major contender in Division III football. Known for their strong academic reputation and solid athletic programs, Wheaton has consistently performed well in both regular-season play and postseason appearances. The Thunder will once again look to challenge for a national championship this season.

### 6. **Hope (Basketball)**
Hope College’s men’s basketball team has been a force in Division III for years, and this season, they remain firmly in the national title conversation. The Flying Dutchmen are known for their up-tempo, high-scoring style of play, and their ability to execute under pressure. With a roster that blends experience and youthful talent, Hope is poised for a run at a national championship.

### 7. **Christopher Newport (Football)**
Christopher Newport University has emerged as one of the rising stars in Division III football, and the team’s success has not gone unnoticed. With an impressive record over the past few years and a strong commitment to development, Christopher Newport is a team to watch as they aim for even greater heights in the 2024 season.

### 8. **University of St. Thomas (Football)**
The University of St. Thomas, in Minnesota, has made a major impact since transitioning into Division III football. With a strong mix of skill players and a top-tier defense, the Tommies have consistently competed for national titles and have become a fixture in the top rankings. As they look to improve on last season’s performance, St. Thomas remains a top contender.

### 9. **Johns Hopkins (Lacrosse)**
In lacrosse, Johns Hopkins has cemented itself as a perennial powerhouse. The Blue Jays have a rich history in the sport and remain one of the top teams in Division III each season. Their aggressive style of play, combined with a talent-rich roster, makes them one of the favorites to claim the national title in 2024.

10. **Tufts (Soccer)**
Tufts University’s men’s soccer team rounds out the top 10, consistently performing at a high level year after year. With a blend of technical skill, athleticism, and tactical awareness, the Jumbos are always a contender for the national championship. Tufts has been a top program in New England and beyond, and this season looks to continue that tradition.

The D3 Coaches Poll is an essential tool for fans and analysts alike to get a sense of where the top programs in the country stand as the season begins. As the year progresses, these rankings are expected to evolve as teams battle it out on the field, but for now, these programs are recognized for their excellence in Division III sports. Whether in football, basketball, soccer, or lacrosse, these schools have proven themselves to be among the best the country has to offer.