Water Polo Splits First Day of the Princeton Invite

PRINCETON, N.J. - The Bucknell Bison women's water polo team (1-1) opened the 2025 season by splitting two games at the Princeton Invitational on Saturday. The Bison fell 17-10 to No. 22 Wagner but rebounded for a 9-8 victory over Siena.

Wagner Recap

Olivia Hopper's three goals were not enough as the Bison could not retain its lead against the potent Seahawks. Wagner posted a 30-5 record in 2024 and made the NCAA First Round.

The Bison proved game against the eastern water polo powerhouse and even led 3-2 after the first quarter. Caitlin Stott's goal opened the scoring before Wagner grabbed a 2-1 lead. Bucknell used a 2-0 run on goals by Ashley Hopper and Bella Schraa to regain the lead.

Wagner used a decisive 7-1 second quarter to seize the advantage for good. Schraa's second goal was not enough to stem the Seahawk tide.

The Seahawks opened the second half with two more goals for the 11-4 lead. Bucknell counterattacked with a 3-0 run to close the quarter on a convenience store score of 11-7. Olivia Hopper scored twice and Campbell Collins added a tally.

Wagner prevented any rally by outscoring the Bison 6-3 in the final stanza. Izzy Lippolis joined Collins and Olivia Hopper by scoring a goal but it was not enough to overcome the deadly Seahawk offense.

Siena Recap

Nine different Bison scored the nine goals, showcasing an amazing amount of offensive depth and talent.

The game began inauspiciously for Bucknell as Siena jumped to a 3-0 lead before Caitlin Stott scored. A Gwen Kallmeyer goal cut the deficit to 4-2 but Siena scored once more before the first quarter ended.

The teams traded goals in the second quarter. Bucknell scored twice on Olivia Hopper and Anna Plante tallies before Siena returned the favor.

The Bison scored three times in the third period while holding Siena scoreless. Bella Schraa began the action, followed by Campbell Collins's goal, and Boati Motau completed the trifecta.

Bucknell proved clutch by jumping out to a 9-7 lead. Ashley Hopper's goal provided the Bison with its first lead and Izzy Lippolis's score added valuable insurance. The lead held up despite Siena's best efforts. The Saints could only manage one goal before time expired.

Up Next

The Bison conclude the Princeton Invite tomorrow with a 9:30 a.m. matchup versus La Salle.

Water Polo Splits First Day of the Princeton Invite

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Players Mentioned

Campbell Collins

Ashley Hopper

Olivia Hopper

Gwen Kallmeyer

Izzy Lippolis

Boati Motau

Anna Plante

Bella Schraa

Caitlin Stott