Valdosta State’s softball team has been picked to finish second in the Gulf South Conference this season in the preseason coaches’ poll, behind perennial power Alabama-Huntsville.

Also, four Lady Blazers made the preseason All-GSC team and three others were listed among the top newcomers in the conference.

Valdosta State, the three-time defending GSC tournament champion, received two first place votes and five second place votes from the coaches, for a total of 44 points. Alabama-Huntsville received six first place votes and one second place vote for a conference-leading 48 points. West Alabama received 34 points, with five third place votes, for the third spot on the list. Rounding out the group is West Florida (31 points), North Alabama (22), Delta State (20), West Georgia (13) and Christian Brothers (12).

Valdosta State and Alabama-Huntsville placed a conference-best four players on the preseason All-GSC team.

VSU’s four preseason all-conference selections were their four infielders — first baseman Natalia Morozova, second baseman April Hutchens, All-American shortstop Marti Littlefield and third baseman Samantha Posey. Littlefield is a three-time first team all-conference selection (one of only two in the GSC this year, along with UAH outfielder Kelli Long). Posey was a first team selection in 2011. Morozova and Hutchens were All-GSC second team selections last year.

Valdosta State catcher/outfielder Courtney Albritton, pitcher Courtney Gunby and pitcher/first baseman Abigayle Kohler made the list of the GSC’s top newcomers. Gunby is a junior transfer from Stetson, while Albritton and Kohler are freshmen.

Valdosta State’s season kicks off on Feb. 4, when the Blazers compete in the West Florida Regional Crossover Tournament in Pensacola, Fla. The Blazers will open their season with a doubleheader against Barry, followed by another doubleheader against Nova Southeastern the next day in Pensacola. The Blazers’ home opener is Feb. 22 against Georgia Southwestern at 2 p.m.

Fans have an opportunity to meet the Blazer softball team, along with the VSU baseball team, this Sunday at the Blazer Blast, which will take place at 2 p.m. at the VSU baseball and softball fields. For more information on the event, visit the VSU athletic department’s website (www.vstateblazers.com).