ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The William Woods University softball team was picked to finish third in the American Midwest Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, announce the conference office Tuesday. The Owls earned 53 votes behind Columbia and Central Baptist.
 
"The pre-season poll is a nice nod to what our team did last year, commented Head Coach Tracy Gastineau. "We have the bulk of our lineup returning with a good mix of newcomers so we are excited about what this season will bring." 
 
The Owls finished last season with a 21-22 overall record and 10-8 in AMC.
 
The team returns 16 players including Emma Taylor who was selected to the NFCA All-Region II First Team last season, Mallory Feldewerth and Celeste Sermeno that earned NFCA All-Region II Second Team honors last season as well. They welcome four newcomers.
 
The Owls open their season at home on Sunday, Feb. 13, versus Briar-Cliff University. Their schedule features 51 games with 16 at home. They begin AMC play on Tuesday, Mar. 15 at Stephens College.
 
 
2022 Softball Preseason Coaches' Poll
Columbia College                               70                    
Central Baptist College                       65                    
William Woods University                 53                    
Missouri Baptist University                52                    
Williams Baptist University               44                    
Lyon College                                      38                    
Hannibal-LaGrange University          32                    
Stephens College                                22                    
U. Health Sciences & Pharmacy         19                    
Harris-Stowe State University            10