Princeton University Athletics
2006 Princeton Men's Water Polo Outlook
August 29, 2005 | Men's Water Polo
Aug. 29, 2005
Princeton, N.J. - The 2004 Princeton men's water polo team recorded one of the best years in program history, winning the Southern and Eastern Championships and making its first trip to the NCAA Tournament in more than 12 years. The 2005 edition of the Tigers will look to build upon a record-setting 2004 season with an even stronger season this year.
Recently, head coach Luis Nicolao sat down for a Q&A about the upcoming season. The Princeton men's water polo season kicks off on Sept. 9-11 with the Princeton Invitational at DeNunzio Pool.
The 2004 season was the culmination of several good years; how will the team continue its upward trend after such a strong season?
Every year is a new year and we know we have to work even harder this year to get back the NCAA championships. We hope the experience we gained last year will only make us better this year. Other than that we know we have to work hard, last year will not win us any games this year. We are excited about the challenges of this upcoming season.
What did the successes of the 2004 squad do for Princeton Water Polo?
It was very exciting for our alumni, I think it affected them the most, except for maybe our current parents. Anytime a team has success I think it helps recruiting, but at the same time we are very fortunate to have the great reputation of Princeton that is the biggest factor in our recruiting.
How will that success translate to the 2005 team?
Having been there should only make us want it more. The guys now know how great the experience is toget to NCAA's, which will only help motivate them this year. Our goal every year has been to win Easterns, and now that we have, we will only want it more.
Who are the key returnees?
We are fortunate to return all of our starting lineup except for Peter. The experience gained by everybody on the team last year should only make us stronger. What is the goalkeeping situation following the graduation of All-America Peter Sabbatini?
We have two goalies that we are excited about, senior Gant Morgner and sophomore Scott Syverson. Gant was out for most last year due to injury and Scott was able to get some valuable time as a freshman. Both guys will come into the season looking to start and both will play.
Who is your toughest competition?
Everybody. Having won Easterns there is not a team out there that would not love to beat us. We cannot take anybody lightly. There are six or seven teams this year that think they can win Easterns and they could all be right, we have to make sure we play our best and hope that is good enough.
What is this season's game plan?
Have fun with what we are doing. These past few years have been a great ride because of how well our team has come together. There is no doubt that we will win some games this year, we just want to make sure we work hard and enjoy ourselves while doing it.
What are the goals and expectations for this season?
To get back to the NCAA championships by winning Easterns.