Well the American Volleyball Coaches Association came out with it’s top 25 Division II preseason poll and there really are no surprises. The usual suspects top the list. Concordia-St. Paul heads it at No. 1, not a surprise since it is the regining national champion. Count me among those that think a team should remain there until it loses.

Cal State San Bernardino checks in at No. 4. The Coyotes, 27-3 in 2007, graduated just two players and have a talented freshman class to fill the few voids. They have advanced to the regional final nine straight years but have gotten over the hump to the Elite Elight only twice- 2003 and 2004.

In between Concordia and Cal State are No. 2 Washburn and No. 3 Truman. Washburn made it to the national semifinal last year and Truman returns all but one starter from a team that made its regional final.

The CCAA also has UC San Diego at No. 22 and Chico State at 25 with both Cal Poly Pomona and Cal State Los Angeles receiving votes. The Broncos could break into the rankings if some talented newcomers adapt to the high level of play in the conference.

Both locals will be tested early as the No. 1 team rolls into Coussoulis Arena on Aug. 28 to play the Coyotes. What a way to start the season.

Cal Poly will travel to Hawaii where it will play No. 14 Nebraska-Kearney, as well as three other foes.

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