Villanova University

In only four years of existence, the Villanova women's water polo team, under the direction of head coach Allyson Gillespie, has developed itself into one of the nation's premier programs. In only their first three years of play, the Wildcats have ended each season nationally ranked, including back to back years at No. 19 in 1999 and 2000. Expectations are high for the upcoming season as Villanova will use the experience gained throughout last year's 7-17 season to make a run back into the national spotlight. With a strong core group returning, and perhaps the most talented freshmen class in the program's history, the 'Cats will look to tally one of their best seasons to date.

Villanova will face an early test as the Wildcats must fill the void left by the graduated Carrie Boyle, who led the team in scoring with 74 goals last season. Gillespie will look to her three captains, seniors Erin Agee and Gretchen Miller and junior Maria Greshock, to lead eight newcomers including six freshmen. Agee experienced a solid 2001 season, finishing second on the team with 62 goals while tallying 32 steals and 18 assists. Greshock will be asked to step up her offensive production after recording 17 goals and nine assists one year ago, while Miller will add depth to the two-meter defense.

The Wildcats will be extremely deep at the driver position in 2002, with a number of veterans returning in addition to some youthful talent. Joining Agee and Greshock at the two-meter primary offense will be sophomore Megan Leitch and freshmen Chesed Ceniseroz and Ellen Howe. Rookie Sarah Oberhauser is also an immediate threat as the team's lone southpaw. Sophomore Katherine Kidde and freshman Aimee Corsiglia will play key roles in Villanova's primary two-meter sets as well. Corsiglia will bring a great deal of experience to the position while Kidde will look to expand upon her successful rookie campaign.

Other newcomers to this year's squad include Denise Hanes and Jennifer Martens. Together, the Class of 2005 compiles the most talented freshmen class Villanova has ever had and brings a great deal of potential both offensively and defensively. Also challenging for position and adding depth to the line-up will be senior Deana Casale and junior Sarah Casey.

A highly potent offensive attack could mean trouble for Villanova opponents as the Wildcats already sport one of the more dominating defenses in the East. Leading the way for the 'Cats in the net entering her senior season is Carly Sproul. The veteran goalkeeper has had an impressive career on the Main Line registering a 44-37 overall record while compiling 460 saves and 172 steals. Sproul will lead a Villanova defense that will also include senior Janine Kuzsa and sophomores Whitney Mabry, Carli Pitchford and Jennifer Rosick. Backing up Sproul in the goal will be the rookie Hanes. The Chalfont, Pa. native and Central Bucks West graduate has shown continued improvement throughout the fall season and possesses a tremendous work-ethic.

If everything falls into place, look for the 'Cats to become one of the more exciting teams, not only in the highly competitive Mid-Atlantic Conference, but throughout the nation as well. "This year's team is the strongest group I have had at Villanova," Gillespie said. "I believe we can be extremely competitive and we look forward to making a run back to Easterns in the spring."