2012 NECC Softball Preseason Poll

March 1, 2012

Lesley University was chosen by the conference coaches as the favorite for the upcoming NECC softball season. Lesley, who posted a perfect 16-0 mark in conference play in 2011, finished with 98 points and eight first place votes in a poll of the league's coaches. After winning their third consecutive league title last season, the Lynx bring back four of five All-NECC First Team selections, including Pitcher of the Year Cassandra Knox and Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year Jenn Dorval. 

Elms College was picked to finish second with 92 points and two first place votes. The Blazers return five and will need to replace three first team all-conference selections from last year's 14-2 squad.

Mitchell placed third in the poll with 76 points. First-year head coach Jillian Ortega will lead a veteran squad into the 2012 season as the Mariners return 10 letterwinners and all but one starter from a team that went 10-6 in NECC play a year ago. Leading the way will be senior pitcher Marissa Thomas, who went 8-2 in conference play with a 2.33 ERA last season.

The Conference welcomes a new member, Regis College, who will be one of the ten institutions that will compete for the NECC title.

2012 NECC Softball Preseason Poll

1. Lesley - 98 (8)
2. Elms - 92 (2)
3. Mitchell - 76
4. Becker - 57
5. Newbury - 54
6. Regis - 50
7. Bay Path - 46
8. Daniel Wesbter - 37
9. Wheelock - 21
10. Southern Vermont - 19