PITMAN, N.J. – William Paterson was predicted to finish fourth in the 2010 New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Field Hockey Preseason Coaches' Poll released Aug. 18.

Rowan received five first-place votes and was the favorite to win the NJAC title, followed by The College of New Jersey (one first-place vote) and Montclair State (one). William Paterson was trailed by Kean, Richard Stockton (dark horse) and Ramapo.

The Pioneers were 9-9 overall and 2-4 in NJAC play last fall under the direction of sixth-year head coach Lindsay Bard. WP will return 11 letterwinners this season, including five starters.

William Paterson will begin the 2010 campaign Wednesday, Sept. 1, at home against FDU-Florham at 7:00 p.m.

2010 New Jersey Athletic Conference Field Hockey Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Rowan (5)
2. The College of New Jersey (1)
3. Montclair State (1)
4. William Paterson
5. Kean
6. Richard Stockton (dark horse)
7. Ramapo
( ) indicates first-place votes