RiverHawks Enter 2010-11 Ranked No. 11

BEAVERTON, Ore. --- Northeastern State will enter this new season with lofty goals and a lofty national ranking.

The RiverHawks, a Sweet 16 team a year ago, are rated No. 11 in the Women's Division II Bulletin Preseason poll. It is the highest ranking ever achieved by Northeastern State since joining NCAA Division II in 1998.

Arkansas Tech begins the year as the No. 1 pick. West Texas A&M is the only other Lone Star Conference school ranked, at No. 5, while defending national champion Emporia State is No. 23.

Randy Gipson's squad features a host of talented veterans and a core of returnees from last year. The RiverHawks won the Lone Star North Division, were runners-up to West Texas A&M in the LSC Tournament and advanced to the regional championship game before bowing out to Emporia State.

Gone are a pair of seniors who had stellar four-year careers -- Jessica White and Sarah Millar. Megan Fraley will likely miss the year due to shoulder surgery, but the majority of the squad returns for Gipson, the 2010 LSC North Coach of the Year.

Preseason drills open Oct. 15 for the RiverHawks. Northeastern State will open the year on Nov. 13 at No. 15-ranked Drury. The first home game will be Nov. 18 against St. Mary's (Texas).

Women's Division II Bulletin Preseason Poll (Preseason)