Aug. 8, 2011

CHICAGO - With a fresh coaching staff, 13 newcomers, and six returning starters, the Loyola University Chicago women’s soccer team has been tabbed to finish sixth in the 2011 Horizon League Preseason Coaches’ Poll.

After ending the 2010 season in fifth place with a conference record of 4-3-1, the Ramblers received 31 votes, sitting the program sixth among the Horizon League and only seven points behind Cleveland State.

Milwaukee and Butler, who both shared the 2010 Horizon League regular-season title, took the top spots. Milwaukee was chosen to take a fourth straight title, receiving seven first-place votes.

Wright State followed close behind in third with 49 points and one first-place vote, while Detroit nabbed 41 points and a first place vote.

Behind Loyola sits Valparaiso with 24 points. Green Bay and Youngstown State round out the conference poll with 18 and eight votes, respectively.

The Ramblers will begin regular-season action at home against Bowling Green on Aug. 19 at 7:00 p.m. CT.

 

2011 Horizon League Preseason Poll

Team (First-Place Votes) - Points

1. Milwaukee (7) - 63

2. Butler - 52

3. Wright State (1) - 49

4. Detroit (1) - 41

5. Cleveland State - 38

6. Loyola - 31

7. Valparaiso - 24

8. Green Bay - 18

9. Youngstown State - 8