UT Chosen to Finish Second in SSC Softball Poll

ORLANDO, Fla. - Defending champion Barry University has been chosen as the preseason favorite to again win the Sunshine State Conference title, with The University of Tampa tabbed second, Commissioner Michael J. Marcil announced Wednesday.

The Buccaneers received 127 points, including 15 of 16 possible first-place votes, in a poll conducted among the league's softball coaches and sports information directors. Voters do not rank their own teams.

Tampa collected 110 points to place second in the poll and garnered the other three first-place votes. Saint Leo was picked to finish third, tallying 92 points. The Lions were closely followed by Rollins, which received 89 points and the fourth-place nod.

Florida Southern was slated fifth with 69 points. Nova Southeastern was not far behind with 63 points. A slim margin also separated Florida Tech (41) and Lynn (39), which placed seventh and eighth, respectively . Eckerd (18) rounded out the poll.

The Spartans return a strong group of players, including seven starters and all three pitchers. Senior Ashley Arcuri will lead UT's offensive attack as the second baseman led the team with a .336 batting average last year. Deanna Henriott returns after setting a UT record with 251 strikeouts as a freshman.

Tampa and Saint Leo tied for second in the 2008 SSC standings, with each team posting a 14-7 record in league action. Both squads joined Barry in the DII South Regional.

2009 SUNSHINE STATE CONFERENCE PRESEASON SOFTBALL POLL
Place - Team, Points (1st Place Votes)
1. Barry, 127 (15)
2. Tampa, 110 (3)
3. Saint Leo, 92
4. Rollins, 89
5. Florida Southern, 69
6. Nova Southeastern, 63
7. Florida Tech, 41
8. Lynn, 39
9. Eckerd, 18