Penn, who was 44-13 last year (16-6 MCC, 2nd), is projected first in the league with 68 points. The program is unofficially ranked 30th in the NAIA's preseason rating.

The league's coaches tabbed the next three schools within three points of each other. Grand View came in a distant second with 55 points, followed by Waldorf with 54 points and Mount Mercy with 52 points.

Iowa Wesleyan is in the middle of the pack with 37 points, while St. Ambrose (33 points), Clarke (28 points), Ashford (16 points), and Viterbo (12 points) round out the poll.

The Lady Statesmen open the 2011 season next Friday and Saturday by traveling to Ridgeland, Miss. for the Belhaven Sweet 16 Tournament.

MCC Softball Coaches Preseason Poll--February 1, 2011
1. William Penn - 68 points
2. Grand View - 55 points
3. Waldorf - 54 points
4. Mount Mercy - 52 points
5. Iowa Wesleyan - 37 points
6. St. Ambrose - 33 points
7. Clarke - 28 points
8. Ashford - 16 points
9. Viterbo - 12 points