Golden Eagles Picked To Win 2010 American Division Title

Aug. 10, 2010

MILWAUKEE - The Marquette University women's soccer team was selected to finish first in the American Division of the BIG EAST Conference, league officials announced Tuesday. This marks the first time the Golden Eagles were picked to win their division since joining the BIG EAST in 2005.

Marquette received six first-place votes and garnered 108 points to claim the top spot in the American Division. West Virginia and Connecticut each received five first-place votes, however the Mountaineers edged the Huskies 106-103 in the points column.

Notre Dame was selected as the favorite once again this year in the National Division receiving 14 first-place votes. The Irish picked up 119 points, the highest total overall, while MU came second with its 108 points.

The Golden Eagles, led by 2009 BIG EAST Coach of the Year Markus Roeders, come into 2010 after winning the regular-season American Division crown for the first time in 2009. MU is anchored by Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year Natalie Kulla who registered a league best and program-record 16 shutouts in 2009. Kulla was also was named to the All-BIG EAST Preseason Team, along with junior teammate Rachael Sloan.

Sloan, one of Marquette's most dangerous forwards, was Marquette's first-ever All-BIG EAST First Team selection in 2009. She led the MU offense with 19 points on seven goals, five of which were game winners, and five assists.

Marquette welcomes Wisconsin Saturday, Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. for an exhibition match at Valley Fields. The Golden Eagles open the regular season against Idaho State at Valley Fields Friday, Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m. MU's fourth annual Fan Fest will be held prior to the game beginning at 5 p.m.

2010 Women's Soccer Preseason Poll

American Division
1. Marquette (6)
2. West Virginia (5)
3. Connecticut (5)
4. USF
5. St. John's
6. Pittsburgh
7. Syracuse
8. Providence

National Division
1. Notre Dame (14)
2. Rutgers (2)
3. Georgetown
4. Villanova
5. Louisville
6. DePaul
7. Cincinnati
8. Seton Hall