NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - The University of Dayton softball team was picked to finish fourth in Atlantic 10 standings for the 2021 season. The outcome of the preseason poll, based on voting among the league's head coaches, was announced by the A-10 Friday afternoon.

"Our team is grateful for the many individuals working tirelessly on current preparations for a safe 2021 season," reflected head coach Cara LaPlaca. "We look forward to the opportunity to compete for an A-10 Championship this year."

George Washington narrowly claimed the top spot with 93 points, including four first-place votes, while Fordham came in second with 92 total points (five first-place votes).

Fordham advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the seventh-consecutive time in 2019. The 2020 A-10 Championship was canceled due to COVID-19.

Dayton is set to open its 2021 schedule Feb. 12-13 at the Upstate Classic hosted by USC Upstate in Spartanburg, S.C.

This year's championship will take place May 13-15 at a campus site. The top-seeded team at the end of regular-season conference play will serve as host of the tournament.