In one of the closest votes in the history of the MIAA's pre-season poll of football coaches, Hope has been pegged as the team to beat in 1998.
In one of the closest votes in the history of the MIAA's pre-season poll of football coaches, Hope has been pegged as the team to beat in 1998.
The MIAA sponsored its 31st annual Fall Sports Press Day Thursday, August 6th at Adrian College. An annual highlight of the Press Day is the announcement of the coaches' pre-season poll.
Three teams received first place votes from the coaches. Hope was favored by three coaches while Adrian and Albion each received two first place votes. Coaches did not vote for their own team.
Hope led the field with 10 points followed by Adrian with 11, Albion 13, Alma 20, Kalamazoo 30, Defiance 31 and Olivet 32.
Hope and Adrian were the MIAA co-champions last fall ending Albion's seven-year reign. This is the first time since 1987 that Hope has been the pre-season favorite in the MIAA.
The Flying Dutchmen report to campus for pre-season drills on
August 24th. The season-opener will be September 12 at Augustana, Ill. The home opener
will be September 26th against Illinois Wesleyan.