COLLEGE STATION, Texas - The Texas A&M softball team was picked fifth in the Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll, the conference office announced today.
Coming off of its 10th straight and 22nd-overall NCAA Tournament appearance, A&M received 37 points and finished behind Missouri (59) - the preseason favorite who ousted Oklahoma (56) from the top spot after three consecutive years, Texas (50), and Baylor (45).
The Aggies were chosen to finish fourth in the Big 12 in 2011, and ended the season at third in the conference.
Texas A&M returns 14 letterwinners from last year's 44-15 squad, including 2011 All-American Mel Dumezich. Joining her in the circle are senior Lindsey Sisk and three freshmen. Two-time Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Natalie Villarreal returns to the diamond for her senior season, and All-American Meagan May will join the Aggies again this year.
Oklahoma State placed sixth with 32 points, followed by Texas Tech (22), Kansas (13), and Iowa State (10).
Texas A&M softball kicks off the 2012 season on Friday, Feb. 10 at the Kajikawa Classic in Tempe, Ariz. The Aggies' home opener is Feb. 15 against Sam Houston State.
2012 PRESEASON COACHES' POLL
Team (first-place votes) Points
1. Missouri (3)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 59
2. Oklahoma (4)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 56
3. Texas (1)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 50
4. Baylor                           45
5. Texas A&MÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 37
6. Oklahoma State            32
7. Texas Tech                    22
8. Kansas                          13
9.  Iowa State                   10
**Points were awarded eight for first, seven for second, etc. Coaches were not allowed to vote for their teams.