Moon Township, Pa. - The Robert Morris University field hockey team was picked to finish seventh in the Northeast Conference coaches poll released Monday.  The Colonials finished 3-15 in 2007, but will return four starters in the 2008 season.  Robert Morris added eight incoming freshmen to the roster and will return one sophomore, five juniors and five seniors.

Last year's conference champion, Lock Haven, was picked to win conference honors for the third straight season.  Lock Haven picked up six first-place votes, followed by Quinnipiac and Rider, who each received one first-place vote.  Sacred Heart was fourth, Saint Francis (Pa.) fifth and Monmouth sixth.  Siena was placed in the eighth spot behind Robert Morris.

The Colonials, under the direction of second year head coach Olivia Netzler, will look to capitalize with a strong offense that will feature six returnees.  Forwards Sam Lawless (St. Louis, Mo. / Lafayette), Stacie Woodle (Boalsburg, Pa. / State College), Mary Kate Egan (Lynch, Md. / Kent County), Maddy Carroll (Birdsboro, Pa. / Twin Valley), Jillian Howley (East Northport, N.Y. / Northport)  and Kayliegh Campbell (Dauphin, Pa. / Central Dauphin) all bring a wealth of experience to the young team. Lawless, a senior, is the top point getter returning for the 2008 season. 

The Colonials will open their season Friday, August 29, at 1:00 p.m. when they will host Towson at Joe Walton Stadium.