The defending MIAA champion Flying Dutch are ranked among the nation's top NCAA Division III teams in the pre-season poll of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA).

Coached by Becky Schmidt, the Flying Dutch are ranked 22nd. Defending national champion Emory, Ga. is the top-ranked team. MIAA rival Calvin is ranked 16th.

The 2008 Flying Dutch posted a 26-7 record, won 15-of-16 conference matches and were ranked 19th in final NCAA Division III poll of the AVCA.

The Flying Dutch open their season on Labor Day weekend (Sept. 4-5) in a tournament at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.  Washington is ranked fifth in the pre-season poll.

The home opener will be a conference match against Alma on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

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