Aug. 1, 2002

The Atlantic 10 Conference held its annual football media day on Thursday, August 1 in Philadelphia. In addition to the two-hour media session, the pre-season predicted order of finish and the pre-season All-Conference teams were announced.

Villanova was selected to finish sixth in the pre-season poll as voted on by both the league coaches and media members. The Wildcats return 12 starters and 23 letterwinners from last year's squad that finished in a four-way tie for the league title with a 7-2 conference mark. William & Mary was picked to win the league followed by Maine, Massachusetts, Hofstra and Delaware.

Four Wildcats earned pre-season All-Conference accolades highlighted by junior tight end Matt Chila who was named to the first team. Senior quarterback Brett Gordon was a pre-season second team All-Conference selection as were senior defensive back Gary Johnson and senior linebacker Jamison Young.

Villanova opens the 2002 campaign on Saturday, August 31 when the 'Cats travel to Rutgers for a 7 p.m. kickoff.

2002 Atlantic 10 Pre-Season Poll1. William & Mary2. Maine3. Massachusetts4. Hofstra5. Delaware6. VILLANOVA7. Richmond8. New Hampshire9. Rhode Island10. Northeastern11. James Madison