Aug. 10, 2006

Erie, Pa. - Another year older and another year wiser. After battling through a demanding 21 game schedule in 2005, Mercyhurst men's water polo coach Curtis Robinette will lean heavily on an experienced squad to improve on last year's 6-15 record.

Seven of the team's 21 games were decided in overtime or by one goal. But for a team that returns every starter from last year's squad, those games provide valuable experience looking forward to the 2006 season.

Kevin Riordan, a two year starter, would hold the school record for assists in a season, after posting 32 as a sophomore last year. However, sophomore teammate Oscar Calderon totaled 34 assists in his first season for the Lakers. Calderon also broke the school record for ejections drawn with 41, but he was not the only newcomer to contribute last year.

Sophomore Andrew Schonhoff finished with team highs in goals (45) and points (68) last year and sophomore Jorge Montero broke the school record for steals, with 40, and added 40 goals as well. Both athletes were honored as first team All-Division II East players.

As if that is not enough firepower, the Lakers return Trevor McIlwaine, a 2004 starter who missed the entire year with a knee injury.

Sophomores Zach Bell and Mihailo Jovanovic, along with junior Kyle Bogucki, will give the team more depth. Bell added excitement with his shooting a year ago, scoring 31 goals, while Jovanovic and Bogucki played in every game last year and brought energy on both ends of the pool.

Seniors Chad Ward and Kevin Weishaar round out the returners and will be important pieces as they are called upon for leadership and experience.

Two freshmen bring needed attributes to the squad and should compete for playing time. Kane Ashton has tremendous speed and Jarrett Pivarunas' defensive mindset will be welcome additions.

With only two seniors on this year's team, the Lakers are still a young squad. After learning a few lessons last year, Mercyhurst should be a solid contender in 2006.