Annapolis, MD - The Iona College men's water polo team opened the 2009 season with a setback against the No. 4 ranked Cal Bears, by a score of 26-1. Sophomore Ryan Oldendorf picked up the Gaels' initial 2009 goal with a first quarter shot.

"They are probably the best team in country," said coach Brian Kelly, "we are a young squad learning each time we get in the pool and taking on a stellar team like Cal will help us down the line."

Thirteen different players scored for Cal, who outscored Iona 9-1 in the first quarter and then posted a shutout to rest of the way, scoring seven goals in the second period and five goals in both the third and fourth periods.

The Gaels played a pair of exhibition matches as well, falling to Diablo Valley College in sudden death overtime and to Concordia (Calif.) 21-7 later in the evening.

The Gaels return to the water tomorrow to take on Gannon. Start time is scheduled for 7:30 am.