Salina, Kan. – The McPherson women’s soccer team was picked to finish second in a vote by the league’s coaches at the annual KCAC Sport Management Conference held on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina, Kan. It is the third consecutive season that the Bulldogs rank amongst the top three in the preseason poll.
“Our program is pleased with the second place ranking,” said McPherson College head soccer coach Robert Talley. “It (the second place ranking) speaks tremendously about how competitive the team has become since 2003. We realize this ranking puts a bigger target on our backs, but we feel we’re ready for the challenge.”
Kansas Wesleyan University was selected as the preseason favorite receiving 90 total points and 9-of-10 possible first-place votes. McPherson received 78 points for second place, while Ottawa University (76), Friends University (62) and Bethel College (51) round out the top five.
McPherson finished 2009 in third place with a 6-1-2 conference record and a 10-5-3 overall mark. The Bulldogs season ended in a 2-0 loss to Kansas Wesleyan in the tournament semifinals. McPherson opens its 2010 campaign on Wednesday, Sept. 1 against Concordia University (Neb.).
2010 KCAC Preseason Polls
Coaches Poll
1. Kansas Wesleyan University (9) – 90
2. McPherson College (1) – 78
3. Ottawa University – 76
4. Friends University – 62
5. Bethel College – 51
6. Southwestern College – 47
7. Bethany College – 40
8. Sterling College – 39
9. University of Saint Mary – 32
10. Tabor College - 25