VILLANOVA, Pa. -

The women's water polo team kicked off their 2015 season today at the Iona Mini Tournament in New Rochelle, N.Y. While the Wildcats didn't come away with a victory, the team remains hopeful and optimistic about what's next to come for them this season. Villanova played a game against Harvard and then against Iona.

Game 1 - Harvard 19, Villanova 8

Harvard was able to take an early lead in this one scoring three goals within the first few minutes. They never looked back. `Nova was down by a score of 10-5 at halftime with plenty of room to work in the second half but they weren't able to slow down Harvard's offensive attack.

Dominique Clark was the high scorer for Wildcats. She was able to find the net three times, which were her first three collegiate goals.

Other contributors to the scoring were Sarina Shabata with a goal, Sheila Gerrity scored twice, Sadie Dutcher had one and Naomi Ng had one as well.

Villanova will have a chance to play Harvard again this season on Feb. 8 in the Princeton Invitational.

Game 2 - Iona 10, Villanova 8

Game 2 was a much closer affair. The game was within reach right up until the end when the score stood at 9-8 with just under three minutes remaining in the game. However, Iona was able to extend the lead to two with 1:37 remaining, a lead that would hold up.

Naomi Ng was easily the leading scorer for the Wildcats with four goals. Sara Abele, Sadie Dutcher, Sheila Gerrity and Sabina Shabata were all able to get in on the action with a goal apiece.

Villanova will next compete in the Princeton Invitational in Princeton, N.J. on Feb. 7-8 with matches against Princeton, CAMO, Harvard and Indiana.