The University of Michigan water polo team, currently ranked No. 17, is set to continue its 2026 season this weekend in Tempe, Arizona, at the Arizona State Invitational. The Wolverines will compete at the Mona Plummer Aquatic Center, starting with a matchup against No. 7-ranked Loyola Marymount on Saturday, January 24, at 10 a.m. MT. The following day, Michigan will take on the tournament host, No. 11-ranked Arizona State, at 9:45 a.m. MT.
Michigan is looking to bounce back after a challenging start to the season at Fresno State’s Polopalooza, where they suffered three losses. However, the games were closely contested, notably a narrow one-goal defeat against Hawaii. In the early stages of the season, sophomore Ari Karampetsou has emerged as a strong offensive player, leading the Wolverines with seven goals, along with one assist. She is closely followed by senior Riley Chapple, who has contributed five goals and three assists, and junior Emma Gustafsson, with six goals and two assists, highlighting a competitive scoring dynamic within the team.
Another standout player, Harriet Dickens, has made her mark with a team-leading four assists in the opening matches, adding three goals to her tally for a total of seven points. Senior captain Brooke Ingram showcased her prowess with two impressive multi-goal games, including a hat trick in the season opener against Fresno State, also scoring twice against Cal. In addition, Emilia Mladjan contributed dramatically by drawing a team-high nine exclusions, a crucial aspect of the game strategy.
Transfer goalkeeper Victoria Ridhalgh made her debut for Michigan, starting against Hawaii and managing seven saves along with two steals, illustrating her readiness to contribute significantly to the team’s defensive efforts. Freshman Maya Mladjan also made her first appearance for the Wolverines during the weekend, adding depth to the roster.
As Michigan prepares to face Arizona State for the first time since 2024, where they secured a narrow victory of 9-8, the team hopes to capitalize on their early experiences and build momentum in their upcoming matches, demonstrating resilience and growth as the season progresses.