SouthtownStar’s girls water polo notes

Andrew is a team on the rise.

The Thunderbolts should be a major player in the area this season with plenty of returning firepower from a team that was 15-13 in 2013.

Megan Hofer, who led the team in goals (93), assists (53) and steals (59), is back along with goalie Anna Tamulonis, who set a team record with 361 saves last season. Hofer is committed to play water polo at Iona.

“Most of our team is made up of juniors and seniors who have now played together for us for two years,” Andrew coach Mike Kuziel said. “We expect that this experience should pay off in the pool.”

Genny McCarthy, Allison Sifuentes and Courtney Carter are among other returnees for Andrew, which has high expectations.

“We should contend for the (SouthWest Suburban Red) title,” Kuziel said. “We also have our sights set high for sectionals and a possible first state appearance.”

Andrew opened the season March 10, rolling to a 20-1 win over Stagg.