The Stags open their 2011 campaign with some tough competition as they head to the Cal Molten Classic, August 26-27, in Berkeley, Calif.

Fairfield opens the season against FIU on Friday at 5pm (PST). The Stags will take on host Cal on Saturday at 11am (PST). The Bears, who were the national runners-up last season, are ranked third in the nation in the AVCA 20111 Preseason Poll. Fairfield finishes the tournament against UC Riverside at 5pm (PST) on Saturday.

On The Web: Live stats and live video will be available for the tournament by visiting calbears.com.

Stags In Season Openers: Fairfield is 15-11 in season openers since 1985 and has captured five of its last seven including the 3-1 victory over Eastern Michigan to start 2009.

MAAC Preseason Poll:  Fairfield was picked to finish third in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) this season according to a poll of the league's coaches. The Stags received 73 points to finish behind Canisius College with 81 points. Two-time defending MAAC Champion Niagara University was picked to repeat as conference champion with 98 points.

Fresh Faces: Head Coach Alija Pittenger brought in five new players for the 2011 campaign in NC State transfer Carsen Mata, 6-foot middle blocker Lindsay Weaver, 5-foot-11 outside hitter Camille Coffey, 6-foot-2 right side Caitlin Stapleton, 5-foot-10 outside hitter Marilyn Peizer.