GLEN ALLEN, Va. – The University of Delaware field hockey team received votes in the first national preseason poll conducted by the STX/National Field Hockey Coaches Association.

The Blue Hens, who were one of six teams from the Colonial Athletic Association to receive votes in this week’s poll, earned 19 points. The team was the third highest ranked squad from the CAA and the 27th best in the country.

Delaware is led by senior captain Casey Howard, who enters her final year as one of the most accomplished players in the conference. A member of the 2008 Preseason All-CAA squad, she has been a first-team All-Region selection during each of the past two years.

Last season, Howard led the team with 13 goals and 29 points while she ranked second in the conference with a 1.53 points-per-game average.

Along with Howard, the Hens will be led by a strong corps of veteran leadership. Four other seniors highlight the roster, including goalie Nikki Rhoades (at right). The team’s starting netminder in 34 of her 39 career games, she has posted five shutouts including three last season.

Senior Amy Brewer, who tied for second on the squad last season with four assists, will be joined on the team’s forward line by fellow seniors Jessica Cortellino and Erin Marihugh.

Juniors Tori Karsten and Kimmy Schlezes also are expected to continue their solid careers and help bolster Delaware’s potent attack. Fellow junior Rae Everson as well as sophomore backs Florence Sijbrandij and Missy Woodie will serve as key contributors on the team’s defensive unit.

Along with Delaware, five other CAA teams made the preseason NFHCA poll. James Madison and Old Dominion both earned top-10 rankings, placing seventh and eighth, respectively.

Following the Blue Hens, Northeastern, Hofstra, and William & Mary also received votes in the poll.

Delaware will open up the 2008 campaign on Saturday when the team battles Michigan State in the first round of the Champions Challenge in Louisville, Ky.