BERKELEY – The California women’s water polo team continued its strong form, securing a decisive 10-8 victory over No. 5 Hawai’i at the Spieker Aquatics Complex on Saturday. The win marks the third of the season against the Rainbow Wahine and improves Cal’s overall record to 11-3, although Hawai’i falls to 11-4. This 2026 season has already proven competitive for the Golden Bears.
The match was a tightly contested affair for the first half, with both teams trading goals. However, a pivotal three-goal rally from Cal in the second quarter began to shift the momentum. Julia Bonaguidi’s assist to Eszter Varró put the Bears ahead 5-4, and Abbi Magee followed with a goal off a pass from Julianne Snyder, extending the lead to 6-4. Defensive pressure, including a steal by Despoine Drakotou, further solidified Cal’s advantage, culminating in another goal from Varró to craft it 7-4.
Cal continued to build on its lead in the third quarter, answering a Hawai’i push with another three-goal surge. Drakotou earned a penalty shot, which Bonaguidi converted for her third goal of the day. A counterattack featuring Maria Bonachenko and Feline Voordouw resulted in another Cal goal, bringing the score to 9-6. Drakotou then assisted Varró, pushing the lead to 10-6. While Hawai’i managed to score late in the third and fourth quarters, Cal maintained control and secured the win.
Game Highlights and Key Performances
Julia Bonaguidi led the Cal scoring with three goals, continuing a recent streak of multi-goal performances. Despoine Drakotou contributed two goals and continues to be Cal’s top scorer this season with 34 goals. Drakotou, Abbi Magee, and Feline Voordouw have each scored in 13 of Cal’s 14 games this season, demonstrating consistent offensive contributions. Talia Fonseca recorded 5 saves for Cal, while Daisy Logtens had 10 saves for Hawai’i.
Here’s a breakdown of the scoring:
| Team | Goals |
|---|---|
| Cal | 12 |
| Hawai’i | 8 |
What’s Next for the Golden Bears
Cal will conclude its three-game homestand with a matchup against Indiana at the Spieker Aquatics Complex on Saturday, March 21st, at 1 p.m. The team will also celebrate its graduating seniors in a Senior Day ceremony prior to the game. Fans can follow the Cal women’s water polo team on X (@calwwpolo), Instagram (@calwwpolo), and Facebook (@calwwpolo) for updates and coverage.
The upcoming match against Indiana presents an opportunity for Cal to continue its winning streak and build momentum as the season progresses. The Senior Day celebration will add an emotional element to the game, as the team honors its departing players. The Bears will look to maintain their strong offensive and defensive performance as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Share your thoughts on Cal’s victory and the upcoming match in the comments below!
