Harrison Lilley – Photographer

hjl5363@psu.edu

The Penn State Behrend women’s water polo team had an eventful weekend at the 2023 Collegiate Water Polo Association, CWPA, Championships hosted by Macalester in St. Paul, Minnesota.

On Friday afternoon, the Lions faced Carthage in their opening game of the tournament, and after a tight game, they were defeated 9-8. The Firebirds’ starting goalie Ella Selman made a game-winning save on the Lions final shot with one second remaining, denying Penn State Behrend the opportunity to send the game into overtime.

Despite the loss, the Lions put up an impressive performance, holding the Firebirds scoreless in the fourth quarter while scoring five goals. Marley Persch led the Lions with three goals, followed by Nic Darrell with two goals, and Shannon Young with one.

Penn State Behrend’s goalkeeper, Julie de Deus, made six saves in the game, while Selman made 13, securing the win for Carthage. Faith Harris started in goal for Carthage in the final quarter, but Selman came in after the Lions’ eighth goal to preserve the win.

On Saturday, the Lions took on Grove City in their first game and lost 18-14. The Wolverines had a strong start, leading 6-0 after the first quarter. However, Penn State Behrend made a comeback in the second and third quarters, outscoring Grove City 11-8. Marley Persch led the team with four goals, while Emily McNaughton added three goals.

Despite a hard-fought effort, Penn State Behrend fell short, entering the ninth-place game against Utica. In their final game of the tournament, the Lions defeated Utica 17-7, securing the ninth-place finish.

Behrend dominated the game from the beginning, grabbing a 4-0 lead in the first quarter, never trailing. In the final quarter, they outscored the Pioneers 7-1. Shannon Young led the Lions with five goals, scoring three in the fourth period. Olivia Wright had a hat trick, and Nic Darrell netted a pair of goals.

Overall, the tournament was a mix of ups and downs for the Lions, finishing ninth, but showcasing the team’s potential throughout the games. The tournament’s concluding game against Utica showed the team’s determination and effort, securing them the ninth-place finish.

Despite tough losses, Penn State Behrend demonstrated an impressive level of skill throughout the tournament, with strong performances from players such as Marley Persch, Nic Darrell, and Shannon Young. The team’s goalkeeper, Julie de Deus, also displayed impressive talent, making crucial saves in each game.

The Lions will be looking to build on their performances in the CWPA Championships as they move forward in the season. Head coach Jen McIntyre and her team will be aiming to improve their game and work towards achieving their goals for the remainder of the season.

The Penn State Behrend women’s water polo team will return to the pool on April 9 when they take on Allegheny at home. There is no doubt that they will be determined to continue showcasing their skills and make a strong push towards finishing the season on a high note.