Story courtesy of the USA South Conference
Photo courtesy of Christopher Newport Athletics
DANVILLE, Va. - Christopher Newport University, under the direction of 12-year Head Coach Matt Kelchner, was picked in the preseason coaches' poll to defend its USA South Athletic Conference football title in 2012. The preseason poll was released at the annual USA South Football Media Day. The Captains posted an undefeated league record last season and claimed their eighth-ever USA South title.
CNU received six of eight first place votes (48 points) as head coaches do not vote for their own teams in the balloting. Last season's second-place team, Ferrum College, finished second in the voting with the remaining two first place votes and 43 total points. N.C. Wesleyan College placed third in the poll with 29 points while USA South newcomer, LaGrange College, was fourth with 27 points. The bottom half of the preseason poll featured Averett University with 26 points, Methodist University with 23 points, Maryville College with 21 points and Greensboro College with seven points.
The 2012 USA South football schedule kicks-off on Saturday, September 1 as all eight teams begin their seasons with non-conference action.
2012 USA South Coaches Preseason Poll
Rank Institution (1st Place Votes) Pts.
1. Christopher Newport (6) 48
2. Ferrum (2) 43
3. N.C. Wesleyan 29
4. LaGrange 27
5. Averett 26
6. Methodist 23
7. Maryville 21
8. Greensboro 7