PRINCETON, W.Va. -- Fairmont State's softball team was picked to finish fourth in the WVIAC Preseason Coach's poll, the league announced on Tuesday.

Defending WVIAC champion West Virginia Wesleyan has been selected to win the league title, as voted on by the conference coaches. The Bobcats, with 184 total points, edged out Shepherd, which racked up 180 points and two first-place nods. West Virginia State was picked third followed by Fairmont State.

The Falcons have a core group returning from a solid 2011 squad. Pitcher Chelsea Cobb (11 wins, 2.45 ERA) and infielders Abbey Wilson (.315) and Brittany Tallhamer (.295 BA) should help FSU have another strong season.

2012 Softball Preseason Poll
1. WV Wesleyan (7) 184
2. Shepherd (2) 180
3. WV State (4) 176
4. Fairmont State 134
5. Alderson-Broaddus (1) 123
6. Glenville State 114
7. Charleston 112
8. Davis & Elkins 106
9. Seton Hill 100
10. Wheeling Jesuit 73
11. Concord 64
12. West Liberty 50
13. Ohio Valley 38
14. Bluefield State 16
(First place votes in parentheses)