Seasoned water polo squad laps early season opponents

The women's water polo team at Penn State is making this season look like the average nine to five job. It is showing up and doing the dirty work during the week and reaping the rewards when weekend matches arrive.

The team's season consists of various invitational tournaments, as well as matches against nearby counterparts. The team competes in the Mid-Atlantic Conference in the College Water Polo Association and plays local teams such as Bucknell, a school the team scrimmaged against to start the season. Penn State won both matches to get its season off on the right foot.

"This was a great victory for the team, as we prepare for our upcoming matches," driver Erika McElroy said.

The team is anxiously awaiting its biggest tournament, the Big Ten club tournament held at Northwestern, for bragging rights among the conference.

"We are looking to improve upon last year's performance," Maczees said, "one that was a middle-of-the-pack season."

That shouldn't be hard considering the number of returning players slated on this year's team. The team is led by Maczees, the captain, as well as the returning leading scorer from last year's team, Gretchen Keisling.

Keisling will be aided on offense by Katie Gaber, Marnie Weber and an offensive squad that likes to move the ball skillfully along the wings during 6-on-5 advantages. Also, Rebecca Stelly and Jen Parker are expected to make contributions from their drive positions.

On the defensive side of the ball, senior goalie Eve Koopmann anchors the defense. Defensive specialists include Shannon Yott, who maintains the "hole-d" position, as well as Erin Zay and Courtney Gilles.

"This team is a nice blend of offensive specialists and defensive players, which works well," driver Marnie Weber said.

Everything about this team is volunteer, from its 10 p.m. to midnight practices, to their coach, Richard Graw, who donates his time and effort to help the team.

"You can tell he really cares about the team and also the sport," Weber said. "His encouragement is really bringing the team to another level."

Due to scheduling problems, the team doesn't get play at home, but its next two seasons the players can showcase their talent on campus.

Players are encouraged to join the club next year, hoping to improve an already impressive squad. But don't mention plans about next season yet to this team, it still has a big statement to make at the tournament.