May 2, 2010
WWPA Photo Gallery
WWPA Championship
Box Score in PDF Format 
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The eighth-ranked LMU women's water polo team used offense to lead it to its eighth Western Water Polo Association Championship in 10 years, defeating UC San Diego 13-10 in the title game of the 2010 WWPA Championship at Hillman Aquatics Center Sunday afternoon.
The Lions finished the tournament with 41 goals in three games, setting the all-time school record and in the process, the 24 goals scored between UCSD and LMU set the all-time WWPA record for goals in a title game. The Lions defend their 2009 title and are now the winningest program in LMU history.
"We knew that if we stayed aggressive and really pushed the tempo offensively, teams would have a hard time outscoring us," said Head Coach Kyle Witt, who wins a title in his first season at the helm of the Lions. "I am really proud of this team. We really hit our stride at the tournament and I am looking forward to us continuing that in the NCAA tournament."
The Lions earn the WWPA's automatic bid to National Collegiate Women's Water Polo Championship hosted by San Diego State at Aztec Aquaplex, May 14-16, 2010. It will be the Lions eighth trip to the NCAA tournament.
Mary Ann Campos led the Lions offensive attack with a season-best five goals, helping the Lions establish a 7-3 lead at the break. Kimberly Benedetti added two goals, giving her 10 in the tournament. Anne Scott also had a pair in the win.
It was a typical championship game, played very aggressive and tight. The two teams combined for 21 exclusions and three five-meter penalties. LMU went 7-for-11 on the 6-on-5, including Erin Manke's goal with just two seconds to go in the first quarter to snap a 2-2 tie.
The Lions actually trailed for the first-time all tournament, as UCSD scored first. However, with a one-goal lead heading into the second quarter, the Lions outscored UCSD 4-1 to take control of the game.
The two teams played even in the third and after UCSD cut the lead to three with 5:52 to play, Casey Flacks put in the dagger on a 6-on-5 to give LMU a 13-9 lead with 4:45 to play.
Flacks was named tournament MVP and was on the All-Tournament first-team with Benedetti and goalie Kristine Cato, who had six saves in the title game. Daisy Carrillo and Diana Romero was named second-team All-Tournament.
The 2010 National Collegiate Women's Water Polo Championships bracket will be released live via a webcast selection show on NCAA.com Monday, May 3 at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. ET
