Bernadette Doyle Shines Again: A Big Weekend for the Rainbow Wahine
HONOLULU — In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, University of Hawai’i senior attacker Bernadette Doyle has again claimed the spotlight. After an electrifying weekend, Doyle has been named the Big West Women’s Water Polo Player of the Week for the second time this season, showcasing her undeniable prowess in the water.
Breaking Records and Expectations
Doyle’s phenomenal performance helped the Rainbow Wahine (18-4, 7-0 Big West) secure an outright Big West regular-season title, extending their conference winning streak to an impressive 15 consecutive victories—a program record! Over a three-match road trip, Doyle lit up the scoreboard with eight goals, achieved through an eye-popping 51.7% shooting accuracy, along with contributing six assists and seven steals.
A Hat Trick Sensation
The standout attacker kicked off her road trip with a strong showing against No. 11 UC San Diego, where she netted two goals, delivered three assists, and made three crucial steals in a commanding 12-7 victory. Not stopping there, Doyle faced monumental competition in a non-conference battle against fourth-ranked UCLA, where she scored an astonishing three goals, marking the 10th hat trick of her season. Defensive prowess accompanied her offensive flair, as she secured three steals amidst the challenge of the Bruins.
Wrapping up her regular season, Doyle added another three-goal masterpiece in a dominant 14-4 win over Cal State Fullerton, achieving her 21st career hat trick—further solidifying her status as a key player on the squad.
Season Highlights and Achievements
Doyle closed the regular season perched at the top of her team in assists (34) and steals (40), while also ranking second in points with 80 and third in goals with 46. As she approaches the end of her collegiate career, Doyle boasts impressive lifetime statistics of 122 goals, 99 assists, and 118 steals—just one assist shy of becoming the second player in UH history to achieve triple digits in all three categories.
With her remarkable achievements, Doyle is not alone in her success. Fellow senior Jordan Wedderburn also contributed to the team’s accolades, with UH accumulating six Player of the Week awards this season—a program record surpassing the previous high of five established last year.
Looking Ahead: Big West Championship Awaits
Currently, the Rainbow Wahine are recognized as the fourth-ranked team in both the Collegiate Water Polo Association Women’s Varsity poll and the ACWPC National Top 25. After a brief hiatus, they are set to return to action at the Big West Championship, scheduled from April 25 to April 27. As the tournament’s No. 1 seed, the ‘Bows will kick off their title defense in the quarterfinals on April 25 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time (7 a.m. Hawai’i Time)—all eyes will be on them as they aim to fend off fierce competition in Irvine, California.
In conclusion, Doyle’s sensational talents and the team’s collective efforts have painted a promising picture for the upcoming championship, fueling hopes for a historic finish to the season. Fans can keep track of the Rainbow Wahine’s journey as they delve deeper into postseason action.
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For more information on the Rainbow Wahine, visit their official website at Hawaii Athletics.
