CEDAR CITY, Utah - Feb. 2 - Southern Utah University softball has been picked fourth in the annual Summit League preseason coaches' poll as released by the conference offices on Thursday.
The Thunderbirds return talent at several positions, including second-team all-Summit League pitcher Heather Black and designated player Madison Resley, a member of the 2011 Summit League all-tournament team. SUU will open conference play on March 9, hosting Oakland University.
UMKC was named the top team in the league, garnering 61 points and five first-place votes. The Kangaroos narrowly edged North Dakota State as the Bison earned 60 points and four first-place votes. IPFW was only two points ahead of Southern Utah with 46 points as Western Illinois (38), IUPUI (22), South Dakota State (22), Oakland (18) and South Dakota (13) rounded out the poll.
Southern Utah will open its 2012 season on Feb. 11 when the Thunderbirds host Utah Valley University in St. George.
2012 Summit League Preseason Softball Poll
1. UMKC 61(5)
2. North Dakota State 60 (4)
3. IPFW 46
4. Southern Utah 44
5. Western Illinois 38
6. IUPUI 22
South Dakota State 22
8. Oakland 18
9. South Dakota 13
