BRIDGEPORT, Pa. — Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) Commissioner Dan Sharadin announced the approval by the league’s Board of Directors and confirmation of Wheaton College (Mass.) women’s water polo as a member of the CWPA Division III women’s group starting during the 2023-24 academic year.
Led by head coach Alana Burgess, the Lyons will maintain the CWPA Division III membership at 10 programs as Wheaton joins Augustana College, Austin College, Carthage College, Connecticut College, Grove City College, Macalester College, Penn State Behrend, Utica University and Washington & Jefferson College. Wittenberg University is competing as a varsity program for the final time during the 2023 season prior to the elimination of the team at the conclusion of the current academic year.
The Lyons will compete in home games on campus at Balfour Natatorium.
Located in Haas Athletic Center, a moveable bulkhead in the Balfour Natatorium allows for the eight-lane, 40-meter pool to be prepared for 25-yard or 25-meter competitions. The natatorium, which opened in 1991, was named for Lloyd G. and Mildred Balfour, the founders of the Attleboro-originated Balfour Co., maker of class rings and long-time friends of the college.
