BROOKVILLE, N.Y. — The LIU softball team begins NEC Tournament play on Thursday at 3 p.m. against Central Connecticut State in Loretto, Pa.

And seven members of the Sharks will have received a year-end conference honor on the eve of that postseason opener.

Catcher Sam Garcia was voted first-team All-NEC by the league's coaches, while right-hander Lindsey Cowans, first baseman Maya Avila, second baseman Mari Narvaiz, third baseman Gabby Padilla and outfielder Camryn Lyman claimed second-team honors.

Additionally, Narvaiz and shortstop Alexia Castro were selected to the NEC All-Rookie Team.

LIU enters the four-team, double-elimination NEC tourney as the No. 2 seed after producing a 28-23 overall and 14-7 conference record during the regular season.