FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Consider it a challenge. The Cougars' softball team certainly does.
Averett lost just three starters from a 20-17 season a year ago, returns the core of the team — which includes four seniors — and brings in a solid freshmen class. Yet, the Cougars were voted ninth in the USA South Conference preseason coaches poll, which was announced Wednesday.
Christopher Newport University was the favorite, followed by Peace College, Shenandoah University, Methodist University and Greensboro College. Ferrum College, N.C. Wesleyan College and Meredith College were also voted ahead of Averett. Mary Baldwin College was selected 10th.
Averett, which was only one of four USA South teams to have an overall record above .500 last season, finished eighth in regular-season conference play but advanced deep into the conference tournament.
| Rank |
Institution (1st place Votes) |
Pts. |
| 1. |
Christopher Newport (9) |
81 |
| 2. |
Peace (1) |
62 |
| 3. |
Shenandoah |
58 |
| 4 |
Methodist |
50 |
| 5. |
Greensboro |
46 |
| 6. |
Ferrum |
41 |
| 7. |
N.C. Wesleyan |
39 |
| 8. |
Meredith |
34 |
| 9. |
Averett |
30 |
| 10. |
Mary Baldwin |
9 |