Loretto, Pa. – The Saint Francis softball team, fresh off three consecutive NEC titles and NCAA appearances, were picked to finish second in the Northeast Conference's Preseason Coaches' Poll. The poll, which was released Friday, is voted on by the league's head coaches.

The Red Flash, led by head coach Jessica O'Donnell, received two first-place votes. 

"We graduated an amazing senior class that truly left its legacy at Saint Francis," said O'Donnell. "We feel honored to be picked second, but our expectations haven't changed. We strive to be the best team in the league, as does every other team in the NEC. What matters is where we finish come May."

The Red Flash set many team records last season, including hits (480) and doubles (97). The offense scored 348 runs, batted .287, and hit 66 home runs.

Junior MeKenzie Saban returns in 2020 after setting the single-season school record with 80 hits. She also led the league with 63 runs scored. Sophomore Christina Clark (Avon, Ohio/Avon High School) also returns after a strong close to her freshman campaign, which saw her land alongside Saban on the NEC All-Conference Second Team.

LIU, who the Red Flash defeated in last year's NEC Championship game, topped the poll with seven first-place votes.
 
The Red Flash open the season at the USC Upstate Spartan Classic in Spartansburg, S.C. from Friday, Feb. 7 - Feb. 9.
 
2020 Coach's Preseason Softball Poll:
1. LIU (7)
2. Saint Francis U (2)
3. Sacred Heart (1)
4. Mount St. Mary's
5. Bryant
6. Robert Morris
7. CCSU
8. Fairleigh Dickinson
9. Wagner
10. Merrimack