Huge games at CdM

Starting today, Corona del Mar High will be the spot for the best international women’s water polo. Five of the top 10-ranked nations will be competing in the 10th annual Holiday Cup through Sunday at the Marian Bergeson Aquatics Center.

In addition to Team USA, the reigning world champion, Canada, Russia, the Netherlands, Italy and Australia will also be in competition at CdM.

Canada was the silver medalist at the 2009 World Championships, while Russia was the bronze medalist. The Netherlands won gold at the Olympics in Beijing. Italy was the Olympic champ in 2004. Australia won gold at the 2000 Olympics.

A rematch of the protested gold-medal match between the United States and Canada highlights five days of water polo action that will see the best in the world mix it up.

Three matches per day begin today with the final two days of the event to be webcast live through usawaterpolo.org.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased at the gate or on the website.

 Today

4 p.m. – Australia vs Italy

5:20 p.m. – Russia vs Canada

8 p.m. – USA vs the Netherlands

 Thursday

5:20 p.m. – Australia vs Canada

6:40 p.m. – Russia vs the Netherlands

8 p.m. – USA vs Italy

 Friday

5:20 p.m. – Australia vs the Netherlands

6:40 p.m. – Canada vs Italy

8 p.m. – USA vs Russia

 Saturday

2:20 p.m. – Canada vs the Netherlands

3:40 p.m. – Italy vs Russia

5 p.m. – USA vs Australia

 Sunday

12:50 p.m. – Italy vs the Netherlands

2:10 p.m. – Russia vs Australia

3:30 p.m. – USA vs Canada