PRINCETON, N.J. — Bucknell University tasted defeat for the first time in 2026 with a 14-8 loss to No. 24-ranked Wagner College during the second day of the 2026 Princeton Invitational hosted by Princeton University in DeNunzio Pool. The Bison kept pace with the Seahawks before an extended 8-2 run separated Wagner from Bucknell..
The Bison posted double-digit efforts in their first two games in dispatching Long Island University (13-9 W) and Iona University (12-9 W), but Wagner’s defensive formation proved a tougher nut to crack. Britta Coultas and Olivia Hopper led the Bucknell attack with two goals each. Hopper finished the weekend with seven goals in three goals. She scored 89 last year as part of her Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches (ACWPC) All-America Honorable Mention freshman season.
Olivia Hopper scored both of her goals in the first quarter for a 2-1 Bison lead. Wagner reclaimed the advantage before Gwen Kallmeyer tied the contest at three-all. The Seahawks tallied again before the quarter ended to restore their previous situation.
Wagner scored three more times before Kenzi Shaw’s goal ended their streak. The Seahawks got the goal back and Ashley Hopper found the net with 11 seconds before halftime.
Wagner essentially iced the game in the third quarter with three straight goals.
The Bison cut the deficit to 12-8 with 2:28 left but two insurance goals sealed Wagner’s win.
Information courtesy Bucknell University Athletics Communications
