The annual pre-season Heartland Conference volleyball poll is out and Incarnate Word's Cardinals are predicted to finish third in the league trophy chase.

A year ago UIW ended in a three-way tie after the regular season to advance to the Heartland's championship tournament.  The Cardinals then won their way to the final match before falling to Texas / Permian Basin.

Based on that finish the Falcons are now favored to make it two titles in a row.  St. Edward's which lost to UIW in the 2008 semi-finals has been predicted to finish second by the conference coaches and sports information directors.

If the poll holds up through the season then Dallas Baptist, at fourth, would be the final post-season tournament qualifier.

Incarnate Word opens its season with four matches over August 28 and 29 at the Angelo State Classic.  The Cardinals might have added incentive this fall as it will be the final tour as a member of the Heartland.  On July 1, 2010, Incarnate Word officially moves to the Lone Star Conference.  UIW last won the Heartland title in 2007.

2009 PRE-SEASON POLL

1)         Texas / Permian Basin, 7 first place votes

2)         St. Edward's, 2 votes

3)         Incarnate Word, 1 vote

4)         Dallas Baptist, 2 votes

5)         St. Mary's

6)         Newman

7)         Texas A&M International

8)         Oklahoma Panhandle