Wild Turkeys go 2-2 at 2002 U of Iowa Tournament

With only three practices following the swim season Grinnell waterpolo had a respectable 5^th place showing (2-2) in the University of Iowa Invitational. On Friday, February 22^nd the tournament kicked off in impressive fashion for the Turkeys as they defeated the home standing U of Iowa Men’s team by the score line 12-9. The leading scorer for the game was senior and player-coach Jake Pollack ‘02.

The Turkey’s had two games slated for Saturday. They first faced-off with the eventual tournament champions Notre Dame. In a lopsided defeat of 17-3 the Turkey’s were clearly hurt by a lack of game sharpness as many shots went close, but failed to find the back of the net. In the second game of the day Grinnell faced off against the Des Moines Water Polo club. Again defeat followed 11-3 as the Turkey’s failed to capitalize on their superior swimming ability as Des Moines was able to control to flow of the game.

Sunday provided a chance for redemption as Grinnell challenged Iowa State University for the 5^th place spot. In a 17-2 victory the Turkey’s shutout State in the first half. The tournament allowed playing time for new players and those who had been away for the Fall semester. These players include Justin Wallace ‘05, who ran cross country, and Joe Benson ‘03, who was in Budapest.