NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -- In a vote of the eight league head coaches, Christopher Newport University was selected to finish third in the USA South Athletic Conference in 2010. At Tuesday's annual media day, the Captains earned one first place vote in the 2010 USA South Preseason Football poll, earning 40 total points for the third place finish.

Defending champion N.C. Wesleyan earned five first place votes and 45 total points to earn the preseason favorite position, while Averett followed with two first place votes and 41 total points. Head coaches do not vote for their own teams in balloting.

Christopher Newport, six-time USA South champions, were selected first in the preseason poll back-to-back years in 2008 and 2009. The Captains went 5-5 in 2009, including a 4-3 mark in conference play.

CNU kicks off the 2010 season, its tenth in program history, Saturday September 4 when the Captains host Wesley College.

2010 USA South Preseason Football Poll
1. N.C. Wesleyan (5)                45 pts
2. Averett (2)                               41 pts
3. Christopher Newport (1)     40 pts
4. Ferrum                                    28 pts
T5. Greensboro                         21 pts
T5. Maryville                                21 pts
7. Shenandoah                          20 pts
8. Methodist                                  8 pts