Jan. 27, 2010

CHICAGO - The UIC softball squad was selected to finish second in the 2010 Horizon League coaches poll, the league announced on Wednesday.

The reigning regular-season champion Flames received one first-place vote and finished second in voting with 57 points. Cleveland State, who claimed the league tournament title last season, finished first in the poll with seven first-place votes and 63 points.

Voting was solely comprised of the nine Horizon League head coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their own team.

UIC returns all but two starters from last season's squad, including All-League first team selections Brooke Frydendall and Ashley Hewett.

The Flames are a mere two weeks away from kicking off the 2010 season, opening the campaign with the Combat Classic in Miami, Fla. on February 12.

2010 Horizon League Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Cleveland State (7) 63
2. UIC (1) 57
3. Wright State (1) 46
4. Butler 38
4. Loyola 38
6. Valparaiso 37
7. Green Bay 22
8. Youngstown State 15
9. Detroit 8

Fans can listen to podcasts featuring exclusive interviews with UIC head coaches, staff and student-athletes in two ways:

1. Download the free UIC Athletics Widget and click on the "UIC Flames Podcasts" link

2. Download podcasts for free on iTunes by searching "UIC Flames."

Fans wishing to learn more about affordable and flexible UIC ticket plans are encouraged to call 312-413-UIC1 or visit www.uicflames.com and click on the "Tickets" tab on the Flames home page.