Lehigh softball tops PL preseason poll
Posted: February 13, 2008
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Winners of the last nine Patriot League regular season titles, Lehigh was picked to finish first in the league’s preseason poll announced Wednesday. The Mountain Hawks garnered 48 points and eight of 12 possible first place votes in the poll, which is voted upon by the league’s coaches and sports information directors.
Thirteenth year head coach Fran Troyan leads a club that went 35-18-1 a year ago, but was denied a fourth straight Patriot League tournament title and fourth straight NCAA tournament berth. The Mountain Hawks return the reigning Patriot League Player of the Year in senior center fielder Kate Marvel and the two-time reigning Pitcher of the Year in junior Lisa Sweeney. A strong class of five freshman joins a team that returns four all-league selections. Overall, Lehigh has won eight Patriot League tournament titles and 14 regular season crowns.
Defending tournament champion Colgate captured the remaining four first place votes, and was picked second. The Raiders are followed in order by Lafayette, Army, Bucknell and Holy Cross.
The Mountain Hawks will open their 2008 season on Friday February 22 when they take on Delaware State at the Seahawk Classic in Wilmington, N.C.
2007 Patriot League Softball Preseason Poll
|
Team (# First Place Votes) |
Points |
|
1. LEHIGH (8) |
48 |
|
2. Colgate (4) |
33 |
|
3. Lafayette |
30 |
|
4. Army |
29 |
|
5. Bucknell |
19 |
|
6. Holy Cross |
11 |