RICE TOPS NCBWA TOP 30 POLL

DALLAS (NCBWA) The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association
continues its tradition of NCAA Division I polls for the ninth year with
its 2006 preseason predictions and weekly surveys. Weekly polls will continue
through June 27, following the NCAA World Series in Omaha, Neb.


A quiet week in college baseball saw the Rice Owls retain their hold
of the top spot in the poll. The Owls, along with No. 2 North Carolina and
No. 4 Clemson, did not play this week. Cal State Fullerton moved up to No.
3.


The ACC, with eight teams in the poll, has the most ranked teams of any
conference. Overall, this week's poll has representation by 11 different
conferences among the 284 baseball-playing schools in the NCAA Division
I ranks.


Founded in 1962, the NCBWA is dedicated to the advancement of college
baseball. Membership is open to writers, broadcasters and publicists of
the sport. Members receive a membership card, directory, newsletter updates
and official votes in the Dick Howser Trophy, Regional Players of the Year
and Pro-Line Cap/NCBWA All-America voting. The NCBWA also sponsors the Pro-Line
Cap Division I Players of the Week, the Stopper of the Year, and publication
and writing contests.