ERIE, Pa.- The Mercyhurst women's water polo team begins its season at the Princeton Invitational Saturday, February 11. The Lakers face Villanova at 1:30 p.m. and then take on Princeton at 7:30 p.m. Hurst closes its weekend with a 12:15 p.m. match against Bucknell on Sunday, February 12. All three contests will be played in DeNunzio Pool on the campus of Princeton University.
 
Coach Curtis Robinette's squad went 16-10 last season, but will need to replace several key players from 2011. Top returners this year include Lisett Calderon, Laura Perez, and Hope Rozelle. Calderon totaled 38 goals and 31 assists, while Perez had 25 goals and 28 helpers. Rozelle made 252 saves and posted 49 steals in net.
 
Villanova opened its season last weekend, falling to Iona, Harvard, and New York Athletic Club. Hannah Ishida recorded a goal in each matchup for the Wildcats. Princeton went 18-11 in 2011, as freshman Katie Rigler scored a team-high 56 goals. Bucknell had a 13-18 record last season. Hallie Kennan is back for her senior year after scoring 55 goals in 2011.