Home tournament attracts crowds, talent
NU gears up for Big 10 championship

Hundreds of students watched real water polo games Oct 19-20 to support the Northwestern's men's team a week before its championship.

Northwestern went to overtime against Indiana. Indiana won 9-8in the sudden death period during a 2-on-1 counter-attack.

Northwestern kept Illinois close, losing only 9-6.

"Some may think this season has been tough, but I say we have never been so competitive or close in so many games," said Northwestern coach Brian Begeman. "We never had chances to win games last year. And this year we have been close many times."

Northwestern has lost three overtime games this season.

Northwestern will rematch both Illinois and Indiana during the Big 10 championships Oct. 26-28 at Michigan State. Northwestern is also scheduled to play against Michigan during pool play.

The top two teams from each pool advance to the semi-finals. The top two overall teams advance to the national water polo championship. Michigan State won the title two years ago and is a favorite to win again. Purdue and Michigan are expected to be in the top four at the Big 10 championships as well.

"I'm so excited," Begeman said. "Saturday (against Illinois and Indiana) will be our day."

Over the weekend, Northwestern also lost to Purdue, and a Chicago competitive men's club Northern Illinois Polo Club (NIPC).

Michigan and the Apostles, a Chicago competitive men's club, also played at Northwestern's home tournament.

Northwestern Water Polo T-shirts are still available for only $5. Contact Dmitry Lubensky to order.

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