DALLAS (NCBWA) The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association
continues its tradition of NCAA Division I polls for the eighth year with
its 2005 weekly surveys. Weekly polls after the preseason survey will continue
from Feb. 7 to June 28, following the NCAA World Series in Omaha, Neb.
The Texas Longhorns top the initial poll of the 2005 season, which
has representation by eight different conferences and top independents among
the 284 baseball-playing schools in the NCAA Division I ranks. Texas, 58-15
last season and No. 2 in the final NCBWA poll, beat out Cal State Fullerton,
the defending national champion, which is ranked No. 2.
The SEC has eight teams in the poll to lead all conferences nationally,
while the ACC with new member Miami · boasts six. The Big 12 and Pac-10
each have four teams ranked.
Founded in 1962, the NCBWA is dedicated to the advancement of college
baseball. Membership is open to writers, broadcasters and publicists of
the sport. Members receive a membership card, directory, newsletter updates
and official votes in the Xanthus Dick Howser Trophy, Regional Players of
the Year and NCBWA All-America voting. The NCBWA also sponsors the Pro-Line
Cap Division I Players of the Week, the Stopper of the Year, and publication
and writing contests.