SALT LAKE CITY – The University of Hawai'i football team was picked fifth in the preseason Western Athletic Conference coaches' poll and seventh in the media poll, which were announced at the conference's Football Media Preview at the Hilton Salt Lake City Airport, Monday.

 

The Warriors received 39 votes in the coaches' poll and 166 votes in the media poll. Defending WAC champion Boise State was the preseason favorite in both polls.

 

Last season, UH was picked fifth in both preseason polls and finished in a three-way tie for fifth with a 3-5 league mark. Overall, the Warriors posted a 6-7 record and was one win shy of securing their fourth consecutive bowl invitation.

 

In the coaches' poll, Boise State was a unanimous selection to repeat as WAC champion, receiving eight first-place votes (Nevada received one first-place vote, but coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team). Nevada was second followed by Fresno State, Utah State, UH, Idaho, Louisiana Tech, New Mexico State, and San Jose State.

 

In the media poll, Boise State received 42 of 43 first-place votes followed by Nevada, Fresno State, Idaho, Louisiana Tech, Utah State, UH, New Mexico State, and San Jose State. Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore was voted the Offensive Player of the Year, while Nevada defensive end Dontay Moch was picked as the Defensive Player of the Year.

The annual WAC Football Preview attracted more than 50 media members who cover the WAC. Along with head coach Greg McMackin, wide receiver Greg Salas and defensive tackle Vaughn Meatoga attended the event and each were interviewed by various print and broadcast journalists. In addition, McMackin taped a public service announcement which will air at all UH home games.

 

The Warriors open fall camp, Wednesday, Aug. 4 in preparation for the 2010 season opener against USC on Thursday, Sept. 2, at Aloha Stadium. Kickoff is 5:00 p.m.

 

   1.      Boise State (8)                                64

   2.      Nevada (1)                                       55

   3.      Fresno State                                    50

   4.      Utah State                                        37

   6.      Idaho                                                33

   7.      Louisiana Tech                              26

   8.      New Mexico State                           14

   9.      San Jose State                                9

 

   1.      Boise State (42)                             386

   2.      Nevada (1)                                      333

   3.      Fresno State                                   300

   4.      Idaho                                                207

   5.      Louisiana Tech                              200

   6.      Utah State                                       196

   8.      New Mexico State                           81

   9.      San Jose State                               66