The Valparaiso University men’s soccer team has been picked to finish in second place in the Horizon League in 2015, according to preseason polling of the league’s head coaches.

The Crusaders totaled 64 points in the polling and received two first-place votes to earn the second spot in the preseason rankings, trailing only Oakland, which picked up five first-place nods and 75 points. Valpo edged out Wright State (63 points, two first-place votes) for the second spot, while Milwaukee was picked fourth and received the remaining vote for the top spot.

Valparaiso opens the season Friday evening at Top Drawer Soccer #14 Kentucky.