With the spring semester underway, it is time for a new season of women’s water polo. After a 25-13 overall (11-1 MAAC) and going on to finish seventh overall in the NCAA Championship last season, expectations are pretty high for them as they approach the upcoming season.

With a majority of the team returning from back-to-back national appearing seasons, the team is counting on thier experience to help them continue their winning record, according to Head Coach Brian Kelly. “I expect us to be the better team in the conference, if not the best team in the conference,” Kelly said marking his expectations for the team. “It is definitely our conference to win again,” Kelly continued.

With many familiar faces returning for another season of women’s water polo, many new faces have arrived as well. The Gaels are welcoming seven freshmen to the team this season. They are expected to provide some serious impact right from the get-go according to Kelly.

“I’m hoping our freshman can provide us with eight minutes immediately,” said Kelly with confidence. “I am happy with what they are all doing. They are all very capable of playing solid minutes for us. They are all really good athletes.”

Alyssa Turza is the lone senior on the team this season and has had a great career as a Gael. This season is going to be her fourth year as a starter as she looks to finish her college career successfully. Although she did not make first or second team All-MAAC, Kelly believes she’s an asset to the team.

“She had proven everyone wrong by being named the MVP in the MAAC Championship,” said Kelly. “She is the reason why we made to the national championship last season.”

With hard work and effort, the Iona Gaels look to expand on their recent success. Coach Kelly is confident with his group this season and only good things can happen.

The Iona women’s water polo team will open their season on Feb. 2 against Harvard and Villanova at Harvard University.