Villanova, PA:  Traveling on the East Coast for the first time in the program’s history, Cal Maritime got its season started in a big way, defeating Lehigh University (PA) 19-7.  It was the most lopsided win in Keelhauler history.  The Keelhaulers scored early and often, taking a 6-1 lead at the end of the first quarter, and a 13-2 lead at the half.  And, it was a real team effort, as seven of the 12 field players figured in the scoring. 

Cal Maritime is in Philadelphia this week-end to participate at the 20^th Annual Villanova Wildcat Invitational.  “This was our first game of the season, and no one was really sure how we would fare today.  We have never faced any of these teams, and have no real way of preparing for them”, according to CMA coach Timm Torchiana (4^th year).  “Obviously, I’m thrilled at the outcome.  We have worked really hard to get ready, and everything came together today for us.  But, it’s only one game.” 

And the road gets a lot tougher tomorrow.  The Keelhaulers will play a tough Fordham University at 11:45am, and then come back to play host Villanova at 3:10pm.  After the round-robin, championship pool play begins on Saturday evening, with cross-bracket games.

“We can only guess at this point about tomorrow.  Fordham played Villanova tonight after our game, and seemed to be handling them fairly easily.  On the other hand, Villanova defeated Lehigh 12-5 earlier in the week.  I think we’ll have our hands full tomorrow,” said Coach Torchiana.

                                    1          2          3          4          F

Lehigh                          1          1          2          3          7

Cal Maritime                6          7          2          4          19   Overall record:  1 – 0

CMA Scoring:  Evan Markstrum:  6, Nic Beene 3, Jeff Balistreri 3, Cole Van Gundy 3, Kristen Swader 2, Megan Braun 1, Peter Gillette 1.

NOTES:  Villanova is currently nationally ranked #9 in the latest CWPA poll…..Villanova goalie Tom Hallett is a graduate of De La Salle HS in Concord….Hallett played for Coach Torchiana on the USA Water Polo National Youth Team in 2002, and traveled to Santos, Brazil to participate in the World Youth Championships; Team USA finished third…….Sr Jeff Balistreri recorded his first career hat trick…..CMA spent the afternoon sightseeing in Philadelphia, including trips to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall…….Fordham is coached by USA Water Polo Hall of Fame member Bill Harris.