2003 Women's Water Polo Outlook
2/10/2003 12:00:00 AM | Women's Water Polo
Feb. 10, 2003
The women's water polo program enters its fourth varsity season after a successful campaign in 2002. George Washington enjoyed their best season since the sport's addition as a varsity program notching a 17-10 record overall with a 7-2 mark in Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) play. The Colonials finished in fourth place in the Southern Championships, and eighth place in the Eastern Championships, matching their previous year's accomplishments.
The 2003 season promises to be another promising year for Coach Scott Reed's team, with junior Kira Canon and senior co-captain Ashley Pyka returning to lead a battle-tested squad.
Canon posted impressive numbers on both offense and defense with 42 total points and 47 steals despite suffering a nagging injury last season. The junior utility also led the team in sprints won with 35, and is perhaps the most balanced player on the team.
Pyka enters the season as the program's all-time leader in goals with 119 scores in her three-year career. She brings not only her explosive offensive attack, but a solid defensive game into each match.
Vanessa Fravel will lead the offense this season given her strong performance in 2002. The sophomore from Coral Gables, FL was third on the team in total points with 63 (37 goals, 26 assists) in her second season. Coach Reed will rely on Fravel to be a key on both the offensive and defensive ends of the pool.
Sophomore Kendra Shanley will be the team's primary driver in 2003 after scoring 18 goals and notching 14 assists last season and adding 40 steals. Adrienne Taylor will be a key reserve on offense. The co-captain saw extensive playing time last season totaling 99 quarters in the pool.
With the core of the team returning this season, GW will offer a difficult match-up for their opponents in 2003, as Coach Reed and the Colonials look to continue their strong play and tradition of success.
