Valparaiso University has been projected to finish in 10th place in the Pioneer Football League for the 2010 season according to the preseason balloting done by the league’s head coaches which was released Monday (Aug. 9).

Dayton was picked to win the title followed by Butler and Jacksonville.  Drake edged San Diego for fourth in the balloting, while Marist and Davidson were picked sixth and seventh respectively.  Campbell, Morehead State, and the Crusaders round out the poll.

Ballots were tabulated with nine points awarded for a first place vote, with one point less being awarded for each succeeding place.  Coaches were not allowed to vote for their own school.

The Crusaders will open up their 2010 season in Macomb, Ill. on Thursday evening, September 2, with a 6 p.m. kickoff against Western Illinois.  Head coach Dale Carlson’s squad began practice on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 8) with a successful first day.

“I was pleased with the conditioning and the attitude of the players as the reported,” Carlson said.  “It was evident that the players worked hard over the summer to come in prepared.  The first practice showed a lot of enthusiasm and the returning players showed they retained a great deal from spring practice.”

(First place votes in parentheses)