Women's Water Polo | February 16, 2018

PHILADELPHIA – The women's water polo team will look to build off of its inaugural season as the team's second official season in program history starts on Saturday. The Explorers recorded their first program win last season again Penn State Behrend as well as numerous wins against local club teams like Penn and Lindenwood.
 
Head coach Paul Macht returns with another year of experience under his belt. Macht has been stressing defense to his team so far this preseason.
 
"Defense is our starting point," said Macht.
 
Including games against club teams, the Explorers were 4-1 when their opponents scored less than 10 goals last year. Their only loss in that situation was a 7-6 defeat by Washington and Jefferson.
 
"Our strength is our quickness and our movements, but it's also our experience with certain players," said Macht.
 
The team returns notable players from last season. Stephanie Morales was the Explorers' leading goal scorer, finding the back of the net 16 times. As a sophomore, she'll be counted on to be one of the team's top offensive threats.
 
Katelynn Kubo (13) and Racquel Jimenez (11) will also return. Kubo and Kacie Cios each recorded 18 steals to lead the team defensively as well.
 
In net, Jenny Fermaintt took over the starting role last season and recorded 59 saves. She's expected to play a big role in net.
 
The team also added five freshmen to the mix. Notable newcomers include Madison Martinez  who was named the 2017 Broward County Water Polo Player of the Year and Jillian Delisle lead her team to a 31-0 record as a senior with 65 goals and 52 assists.
 
La Salle begins play on Saturday when the team faces off with four opponents in two days at the Laker Invitational in Erie. The season begins against host Gannon on Saturday at 2:30 PM.