LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) announced the results of its preseason volleyball coaches' poll today, with Clarion predicted to win the PSAC Southwest division in 2017.  The Golden Eagles received seven first-place votes in the poll.
 
Last year the Southwest division was arguably the best in the entire conference, with all four teams posting 10 or more wins in PSAC play.  Clarion tied for third with a 10-8 mark last year as part of a 16-14 overall season.
 
The Golden Eagles return most starters and key contributors from last year, including Second Team All-PSAC outside hitter Taylor Braunagel, who led Clarion with 359 total kills and a 3.42 kills per set average in 2016.  Five other starters from a year ago return, including senior libero Catherine Ferragonio, junior setter Leah Vensel, junior middles Lauryn Driscoll and Olivia Olson, and junior outside hitter Marissa Robertson.
 
The volleyball season starts a week from today as the Golden Eagles head to Indiana, Pa. for a three-day tournament.  They open against Palm Beach Atlantic on Aug. 31 at 7 p.m.
 
Central
1) Pitt-Johnstown (13)
2) Shippensburg (3)
3) Millersville
4) Lock Haven
 
Northwest
1) Gannon (13)
2) Edinboro (3)
3) Mercyhurst
4) Slippery Rock
 
Southwest
1) Clarion (7)
2) California (4)
3) IUP (3)
4) Seton Hill (2)
 
Southeast
1) WCU (16)
2) Kutztown
3) East Stroudsburg 
4) Cheyney