The Santa Clara University women’s water polo team began its 2026 season with a split at the Sullivan Aquatic Center on Saturday. The Broncos secured a 19-7 win over Fresno Pacific in the afternoon after losing to No. 17 UC Davis, 22-3, earlier in the day.
In the matchup against Fresno Pacific, Khloe Tarbet achieved a career-high by scoring three goals, while Megan Chambliss also recorded a hat trick. The Broncos had contributions from 12 different players who scored during the game. After conceding the first goal to Fresno Pacific, Santa Clara responded with five consecutive goals and maintained control for the remainder of the match. By halftime, Santa Clara led 11-5 and extended their advantage by outscoring Fresno Pacific 7-1 in the third period.
Five Broncos scored multiple times, including Reese Artura, who netted her first two career goals. Evelyn McLaughlin and Calla Troxel each scored twice, matching their career highs. Hailey Romano led all players with four steals, and five Broncos—Mia Barkett, Mikayla Crowe, Sydney Maccabe, Haley Tassell, and Avary Torres—each provided multiple assists. Goalkeeper Haley Tassell made nine saves for Santa Clara.
For Fresno Pacific, Frances Benson, Sierra Coyne, and Sofia DeRollo each scored two goals. Evalena Filippi made ten saves in goal for the Sunbirds.
Earlier in the day against UC Davis, three different Broncos found the back of the net. Evelyn McLaughlin scored Santa Clara’s first goal of the season in response to an early run by UC Davis. Chloe Rizof added another goal early in the fourth period before Hailey Romano registered her first career goal late in the game with an assist from Avary Torres. Mia Barkett and Makenna Genco also contributed assists.
Goalkeeper Haley Tassell recorded six saves and one steal against UC Davis. Khloe Tarbet drew three exclusions during play.
UC Davis saw offensive output from 13 players; Bridget Miller and Margo Tempel each scored three goals. Eva Stein made eleven saves over three periods while allowing only one goal and providing an assist. Ashley Wallin led all players with four assists alongside two goals.
Santa Clara will travel to Seaside next Saturday to face Cal State Monterey Bay for their first road game of 2026. Fans can find live coverage links on SantaClaraBroncos.com.
