STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Host Wagner College claimed a 19-7 victory over Mercyhurst University in both teams’ final 2025 Mid-Atlantic Water Polo Conference (MAWPC) regular season game.
The Seahawks took control early and never looked back, putting together one of their most complete performances of the season.
Wagner opened the match with an explosive first quarter, racing out to a 5-3 lead behind a balanced offensive attack. Senior captain Laszlo Strasser led the charge with three goals in the opening frame, while sophomore Matan Friedenberg and senior Ryan Kerry each added tallies. The Seahawks’ defense, anchored by sophomore goalkeeper Filip Petrovic, kept the Lakers off balance from the start.
The momentum continued into the second quarter, as Wagner extended its lead to 14-4 by halftime. Freshmen Landon Castillo, Smith Connors and Toby Zeeck found the back of the net twice, while Strasser contributed with another key goal. Wagner’s depth was on full display, with nearly every player making an impact on both ends of the pool.
In the third quarter, the Seahawks stayed relentless, outscoring Mercyhurst 3-2. Friedenberg, Zeeck and junior Gabe Johnson converted on the power play to push the lead to 14-6 heading into the final eight minutes of regulation.
Wagner closed the game with five more goals in the fourth quarter, highlighted by back-to-back strikes from senior Eliot Alvarez, senior Ryan Kerry, sophomore Patrick Ray and Strasser to seal the 19-7 win.
The victory showcased Wagner’s offensive depth and defensive discipline, as Petrovic and sophomore Ian Conway each recorded multiple key saves.
Release courtesy Wagner College Athletics Communications
