July 12, 2006

DENVER, COLO. - Defending Western Athletic Conference volleyball champion Hawai`i has been selected in a poll by the league's coaches to defend its crown in 2006 and take home its 11th-straight regular-season title.

The Rainbow Wahine received eight of the nine first-place votes with New Mexico State earning the other first-place vote. Hawai`i earned 64 total points followed by New Mexico State with 57. Nevada finished third with 48 points, followed by Idaho with 43 points. San Jose State was picked fifth with 34, while Fresno State was picked sixth with 26. Boise State finished in seventh place with 22 points with Utah State earning 20 points, good for eighth after finishing the 2005 seson tied for second. Louisiana Tech was picked ninth with 10 points. This is the second season since 2001 that the WAC hasn't played in divisions.

Hawai`i is coming off a 27-7 season in 2005 that saw the Rainbow Wahine earn their 10th-consecutive WAC regular-season title with a 16-0 record. Hawai`i also captured its sixth WAC Tournament title. The Rainbow Wahine advanced to the NCAA Regional Semifinals before losing to Missouri, 3-1. Head coach Dave Shoji returns five starters, including All-American setter Kanoe Kamana`o.

Hawai`i, Nevada and Utah State all advanced to the NCAA Tournament in 2005. The 2006 WAC season begins August 25 with all nine teams in action.

2006 WAC Volleyball Coaches' Preseason Poll

Team                          Points
 1.	Hawai`i (8)		64
 2.	New Mexico State (1)	57
 3.	Nevada		        48
 4.	Idaho		        43
 5.	San Jose State		34
 6.	Fresno State		26
 7.	Boise State		22
 8.	Utah State		20
 9.	Louisiana Tech		10