After having three consecutive losing seasons, preseason exceptions are higher for the Ball State University women's volleyball team this year.
The Cardinals were predicted to finish in second place in the Mid-American Conference West Division in the preseason conference poll released Monday afternoon.
Finishing last season in fourth place in the MAC West Division, Ball State was eliminated in the conference tournament quarterfinals by eventual MAC Tournament champion Ohio University. The Cardinals return all but three players from the 2008 team, including 2008 freshman all-conference setter Brittany McGinnis and middle attacker Jennifer Boyd.
Western Michigan University, which received votes in the top-25 preseason coaches poll, was projected to finish in first place in the MAC West. The Broncos return all their starters from a team last season that advanced to the NCAA Tournament.
Ball State will open its season against No. 19 Purdue University at 7 p.m. Friday in West Lafayette.
2009 MAC Volleyball Preseason Poll
East Division1. Ohio2. Miami3. Bowling Green4. Akron5. Kent State6. Buffalo
West Division1. Western Michigan2. Ball State3. Northern Illinois4. Central Michigan5. Eastern Michigan6. Toledo
Regular Season Champions - Western MichiganTournament Champions - Western Michigan
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
