DALLAS (NCBWA) The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association continues its tradition of NCAA Division I polls for the ninth year with its 2007 preseason predictions and weekly surveys. Weekly polls will continue from Feb. 5 to June 26, following the NCAA World Series in Omaha, Neb.
The Rice Owls top the initial poll of the 2007 season, which has representation by 11 different conferences among the 284 baseball-playing schools in the NCAA Division I ranks. The SEC boasts ten teams in the preseason poll to lead all conferences.
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 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.