The women’s water polo team will open its season on Feb. 6 against Mount Saint Mary’s.
“I wish we were in better shape, but that’s no different than any other year,” said head coach Jay O’Neil. “We have four new players this semester. They came in and they’re adjusting to the team really well.
“They bring great energy.”
The team is aiming to exceed expectations this season, focusing on team and individual goals, especially regarding defense and strategy.
The Red Flash program is in its final season of Division I competition. In 2026-27, all of SFU’s athletic teams will begin competing at the Division III level.
“Through this transition, everyone is like ‘we’re just getting through the season.’ I think we’re good enough and have the drive to definitely beat some teams that people think we aren’t capable of beating.”
The team is relying on a new defensive system this season, aimed at creating more scoring opportunities through counterattacks.
“Hopefully it’s going to give some teams problems,” said O’Neil. “Defense has always been our focus.
“There’s a lot of moving pieces and a lot of communication (required), so we’ve been focusing on that.”
Headlining the list of returning players is senior Caylah Olay. Last season, she scored 77 goals on 171 shots, recorded 24 assists, drew 64 ejections, and earned 21 steals.
SFU posted a 14-18 record last season.
“As a utility player, I pride myself on contributing wherever the team needs me most,” said Olay, who earned all-conference honors in 2025.
“It may sound cliché, but I truly believe defense is the best offense,” said Olay. “Coach Jay’s zone defense requires a high level of communication and trust between teammates.”
Olay is one of six seniors on this year’s team.
“As a senior, I have taken on a more intentional leadership role,” she said. “I’m actively working with my coach to be more vocal and engaging.
“During practices, I like to work one-on-one with the younger players, sharing strategies that have worked well for me and pushing them during drills.”
Senior center back Megan Marlin said decision-making and defense will be critical this season.
“Decision making is the most important thing,” said the native of Flower Mound, Texas. “You can clean up passing. It’s really hard to clean up decision making,
Marlin scored 12 goals on 33 shots last season. She also tallied 20 assists, 13 steals and five field blocks.
Marlin is looking forward to contributing at center back, which is a new position for her this year.
“I’ve always loved playing defense. I love trying to read what the offense is doing,” said Marlin. “It’s my favorite part of the game.”
Olay said she hopes this year’s team can influence others to consider continuing their careers at SFU.
“I want to inspire the next generation of players to choose Saint Francis and continue building this program for years to come,” said Olay.
