College Rankings: Feb 2024
Voters: Alex Lipinski (Salisbury), Catherine Hay (TXST), Christian Barnes (NYC), Owen Weekley (FSU), Grant Himmelman & Lauren Smith (Mizzou), Jack Maldavir (UVM), Jackson Vaughn (Baylor), Lauren Curry (Creighton), Liam Zach (Ball State), Nivash Jayaram (Boom), Nojus Ausra (CCC), & Tanner Bonheimer (ASU).
TOP 10:
Creighton 116 (8)
Harvard 105 (1)
UT San Antonio 104 (3)
Mizzou 81
Rutgers 72
Sam Houston State 46
Virginia 39
Texas State 35
Arizona State 20
Brandeis 18
Others receiving votes: Blue Jay (15), Michigan (8), Columbia College Chicago (2)
1. Creighton
Creighton stands as the epitome of excellence in collegiate quadball, boasting the most complete team in the nation. Its roster comprises one of the most talented chasing cores across the country, coupled with a remarkably athletic beating core led by the formidable duo of TJ O’Connor and Madi Namanny. It's no wonder why Creighton holds the top spot in the rankings. While Harvard presents stiff competition, with recent victories over Creighton at the Blue Jay Classic, the parity between the two teams is evident, each having secured wins against the other. However, Creighton's schedule and string of dominant victories give them the slight edge.
Despite a recent loss to Harvard, Creighton showcased its resilience by taking the game to golden goal. The absence of Ryan Cleary, a key playmaker in the beating game, further underscores Creighton's potential when operating at full strength. With a deep bench, particularly in the beater position with talents like Max Chang and Ryan Cleary, Creighton enters each game with ample depth and energy, poised to make a statement on the pitch.
Creighton's journey towards success hasn't been without its challenges, including changes in coaching staff. Despite coming agonizingly close to a championship in recent years, Creighton remains undeterred in its pursuit of greatness. Its only loss this season was a closely contested affair, showcasing its ability to shut down even the most difficult opponents.
2. Harvard
Harvard emerges as an extremely strong contender for the number two spot in collegiate quadball, boasting a history of finding a way to win. Last season, Harvard’s offense was centered around Leo Fried, a prolific goal scorer, but this year's roster presents a more well-rounded chasing core with additions like Andrew Steinberg and the return of Ana-Luiza Nicolai. The beating game is anchored by the punishing duo of David Chen and Jess Lee, arguably the best pair in the country, though concerns linger regarding beating depth.
With aspirations of claiming the national title, Harvard showcases dominance in the beating game, led by Lee and Chen, who have proven their mettle both in the northeast and beyond. However, the team’s reliance on Fried during the FROP period raises questions about its depth and adaptability against top competition.
Despite splitting games with Creighton, Harvard's near undefeated record positions them as formidable adversaries. Its victory over Creighton stands as one of the season's best wins, underscoring Harvard’s potential to compete at the highest level. However, concerns about depth and discipline compared to Creighton temper its ranking slightly.
3. UT San Antonio
UTSA presents a compelling case for being ranked as the number one or two team in the country, boasting an undefeated record and notable victories over teams like Mizzou and Texas State. However, despite its undefeated status, a few close games have prevented them from securing a higher ranking.
Led by standout talents like Jay Stewart and Milena Sousa in the chasing game, UTSA showcases one of the most skillful chasing cores in the nation. Meanwhile, Javi Tijerina and Kyle Bryant lead the beating game with their physical presence, honed during a successful summer with the San Antonio Soldados. Additionally, Emmie Gouveia and Alyssa Villalba emerged as key off-ball threats, crucial to UTSA's success in its2023 finals win.
With many key pieces from its championship-winning roster returning, UTSA aims to replicate its success, fueled by offensive threats like Matthew Blackwood and David Rodriguez. The dominance of Tijerina and Bryant as the starting beater pair provides UTSA's chasers with ample opportunities, while Sousa's versatility adds multiple dimensions to its gameplay.
Despite its impressive record, concerns linger regarding UTSA's depth beyond male players and its limited exposure to teams outside the southwest region. While they reign as kings of the southwest, its body of work falls slightly short of the more impressive performances by Creighton and Harvard thus far. Furthermore, questions remain about its beaters' ability to outperform other top teams.
As reigning, undefeated champions, UTSA's status remains daunting, yet its ranking is tempered by the need for more substantial victories against higher-level competition. The upcoming regionals will serve as a crucial litmus test for UTSA's championship aspirations, offering an opportunity to solidify its standing amongst the nation's elite quadball teams.
4. Mizzou
Mizzou emerges as the clear candidate for the number four spot in collegiate quadball, boasting athletic chasers and an adept beater pair capable of competing with any duo in the country. Its solid defense and consistent performances against top teams like Creighton and Harvard showcase its potential as perennial contenders, though they have yet to secure a signature victory against these elite opponents.
Historically, Mizzou has consistently ranked among the top five teams alongside Rutgers, often falling just short of the top three. With key players like Keighlyn Johnson, Vincent Reyes, and Grant Himmelmann, Mizzou possesses the talent necessary to compete at the highest level. However, its success hinges on its ability to utilize its depth effectively, particularly in crucial matchups during nationals.
Despite possessing depth and talent reminiscent of MLQ standards, Mizzou has struggled to translate potential into consistent success, evidenced by missed opportunities against UTSA and a near victory against Creighton. Its offensive strategy, often reliant on Reyes and Himmelmann, may benefit from diversification, with players like Jackson Herdade and Miles Himmelmann stepping up as scoring threats. Additionally, incorporating Lauren Smith into a more prominent ball carrier role could enhance offensive dynamics.
Mizzou's breakout performances this season, including dominant wins over solid teams like Columbia and Illinois, underscore its potential as dark horse contenders. Despite setbacks against Texas State and UTSA, Mizzou remains a threat capable of upsetting higher-ranked opponents, as demonstrated by its victory over Creighton last year.
As they continue to refine their gameplay and address strategic shortcomings, Mizzou stands poised to make a deep bracket run at nationals. With its combination of athleticism, depth, and potential for tactical adjustments, Mizzou remains a formidable force in the college game, capable of surprising even the most established contenders.
5. Rutgers
Rutgers stands as a punishing contender for the number five spot in collegiate quadball, showcasing a blend of talent and potential tempered by inconsistency in key matchups. While its performance against top teams like Harvard and Creighton hasn't matched that of Mizzou, Rutgers possesses the capability to compete at a high level, evident in its notable victories over Brandeis and others.
With a desire to redeem themselves after a quarterfinal loss to SHSU last season, Rutgers enters the current season with a sense of determination. Led by talents like Annika Kim and Byron Ng, Rutgers thrives when playing fast and aggressive, capable of going toe-to-toe with any opponent. Its proficiency in the fastbreak is unrivaled, though success in half-court schemes hinges on the leadership of Kim and Ng.
The Rutgers program boasts a dynamic roster centered around standout players like Jahved Cole and Jason Ng, the latter being regarded as one of the nation's top college beaters. Employing a high 2-2 half-court press, Rutgers aims to run opponents off the pitch, utilizing dynamic cuts and athletic finishes around the hoops. However, inconsistencies in offensive execution have occasionally hindered the team’s performance, necessitating a focus on maintaining aggression and consistency to make a deep nationals run.
While Rutgers shares a similar position with Mizzou in the rankings, concerns linger regarding depth and a tendency to falter in high-pressure situations. The Ng brothers remain a gifted pair, yet their inconsistency poses challenges in predicting their performance at nationals.
6. Sam Houston
Sam Houston State, possibly the hardest hitting team in quadball, emerges as a maybe surprising contender for the number six spot in collegiate quadball, boasting a generally well-rounded team with a powerful chasing game led by top players like Mallory Hughes and Great Usiaphre. However, its reliance on elite chasers like Hayden Boyes for offensive firepower underscores a weakness in the beating game, where improvements are evident but still necessary for consistent success against higher-level opponents.
While playing second fiddle to UTSA in the Southwest region, Sam Houston State remains a formidable presence, with performances often overshadowed by the dominance of their regional counterpart. Hayden Boyes' return from injury and the addition of freshman Andrew Acosta inject new dimensions into their chasing game, potentially surprising opponents at nationals. However, concerns about beating depth temper expectations for their overall performance. The continued development and ability for beaters Conner Mason and Gabi Lopez to compete at the highest level may be a ceiling limiter for this squad.
Despite setbacks against Mizzou and Texas, Sam Houston State's resume is bolstered by victories over teams like Texas State, showcasing its ability to compete with top-tier opponents. The Bearkats’ success hinges on the strength of their chaser corps, capable of carrying the team into the latter stages of nationals and potentially returning to the final four.
While questions linger about its consistency and beating game, Sam Houston State's explosive offensive capabilities and defensive prowess make them a force to be reckoned with in collegiate quadball. With aspirations of bouncing back after a successful yet ultimately disappointing season, Sam Houston State is aimed to make a deep run at nationals.
7. Virginia
Virginia emerges as an untested contender for the number seven spot in collegiate quadball, showcasing athleticism capable of overwhelming lower-level teams, but lacking the beater experience necessary to compete with the top contenders. While its 12-1 record reflects success against expected opponents like Salisbury, Pittsburgh, and Virginia Reunited, questions linger regarding their ability to perform against higher-caliber teams.
With a young and untested roster, Virginia's potential and talent are evident, but a lack of experience against top-tier opponents leaves uncertainty about its true capabilities. However, recent matchups against Rutgers have provided insight into the team’s ability to compete at a higher level, demonstrating resilience and determination against seasoned adversaries.
Led by stars like Zan Siddiqui and Emma Rollins, Virginia employs an aggressive defensive strategy and hustling offense aimed at creating scoring opportunities. Despite Virginia’s relative inexperience, players like Joey Beh showcase breakneck speed and potential, adding depth to Virginia's roster.
While its successes are commendable, Virginia's resume lacks notable victories against top teams, leaving questions about its ability to contend with the top contenders. Nonetheless, the potential ceiling and recent performances against higher-caliber opponents warrant Virginia’s consideration in the top 10 rankings, with players like Siddiqui and Rollins poised to make an impact at the upcoming USQ Cup. As they continue to refine gameplay and gain experience against stronger competition, Virginia remains a team to watch out for as the competition intensifies.
8. Texas State
Texas State emerges as a strong contender for the number eight spot in collegiate quadball, showcasing notable performances in the Southwest region, including victories over formidable opponents like Mizzou and Sam Houston State. While the Bobcats’ resume mirrors that of Sam Houston State, with both teams having similar results against common opponents, Texas State's loss to Sam Houston State in the most recent clash at Brooms on the Brazos gives them a slight drop in the rankings.
After a successful D2 finals appearance last year, Texas State aims to transition its talents to the first division in Round Rock. Key to the Bobcats’ success is the standout performance of David Avila, a primary threat in the chaser game whose talents are complemented by players like Catherine Hay. With a significant size advantage over other teams, Texas State's chaser corps poses a cruel threat, while their veteran beater trio of Brandy Gomez, Julie Picasso, and Nicodemus Robles ensures competitiveness in the beating game.
Despite improvements, Texas State's aggressive style of play may lack the strategic depth necessary to overcome the diverse styles of teams they will encounter at nationals. Injuries and foul trouble plague the young roster, holding them back from their potential. Nonetheless, a victory over Mizzou demonstrates Texas State’s ability to compete with top-tier opponents, placing them in a tier just below UTSA and Sam Houston State.
While the offense heavily relies on Avila, Texas State has consistently hung with top teams like UTSA and Sam Houston State, showcasing commendable resilience and competitiveness on the quadball field. As both a D2 finalist last year and now a D1 top 10 contender, Texas State continues to defy expectations, evolving and improving with each match as they aim to make a statement at nationals.
9. Arizona State
Arizona State emerges as a novel candidate for the number nine spot in collegiate quadball, boasting a team that, while not yet having had the chance to prove themselves against top-tier teams, showcases advanced beaters compared to teams of similar level. Key players like Bryanna McLaughlin, Ninadh Ivaturi, Austin Cruz, and Alberto Morales play pivotal roles in the team's dynamics and success.
McLaughlin, a valuable presence both on and off the field, brings exceptional communication skills and prowess as a female beater. Ivaturi, a versatile two-way threat, excels with elite shot-blocking abilities and fast-break skills honed from cross-country experience. Cruz, known for his imposing physicality and willingness to improve, contributes as a chaser and seeker, displaying adaptability and connective passing abilities. Morales, equally valuable, demonstrates versatility across various roles on the field, embodying the team's spirit and adaptability.
While Arizona State has faced challenges against Southwest teams, the Devils’ dominance since returning to the West and recent performances hint at the team’s potential for growth and success. As reigning D2, West, and HVI champions, Arizona State has shown resilience and determination, though they have yet to surpass the strength of Southwest teams this year. However, the continued improvement and the young nature of their team suggest a promising future as they aim to make a mark on the national stage.
10. Brandeis
Brandeis emerges as a compelling candidate for the last top 10 spot in collegiate quadball, dominating the Northeast region outside of Harvard and Rutgers. While blowout victories against mid to lower-tier teams showcase the Judges’ prowess, it's clear that more is needed to solidify a standing among the nation's elite.
After a breakout MQC season in 2023, Brandeis enters the current season with a determination to prove themselves following a Day 2 blowout loss to UTSA in Philadelphia. Led by veterans like Emily Braun and Ben Lambright in the beating core, and Eli Fighter in the chasing game, Brandeis boasts a physical and experienced lineup capable of contending with top-tier opponents. Brandeis’s dominant transition defense sets them apart, providing a formidable barrier to opponents' scoring efforts.
While losses to Harvard, Creighton, and Rutgers highlight the challenges they face against the nation's top teams, close matchups like a 130-125 loss to Rutgers demonstrate immense resilience and potential. Brandeis has steadily risen to become one of the top teams in the nation, with a chasing corps led by Fighter offering a myriad of scoring threats. Players like Shakti Kodeswaran and Caitlyn Pennie further bolster the offensive capabilities, while Rowan Scassellati and Fighter provide solid options at the seeker position.
Despite questions about beater depth, Brandeis relies on Lambright and Alex Gornish to occupy opposing beaters, allowing the chasers to excel. Their multifaceted offensive power earns them a place in the top 10, with close losses against top teams like Rutgers and impressive performances against Harvard and Creighton solidifying this standing.
Overall, Brandeis's unexpected rise from last year's performance underscores the team’s remarkable progress, positioning them as a fresh threat in collegiate quadball. With a combination of experience, physicality, and offensive prowess, Brandeis remains a team to watch out for as they continue to assert their dominance on the quadball field.
HM: Blue Jay
Blue Jay emerges as a compelling honorable mention for the top 10 college quadball teams in the nation, consistently posing a threat to secure significant victories against tough opponents. Known for their athleticism and speed, Blue Jay remains a strong contender on the quadball field, with a resume bolstered by wins over teams like Columbia, Illinois, and Texas.
Despite losses to top-tier teams like Creighton, Harvard, and Mizzou, Blue Jay's competitive performances and victories against notable opponents reflect their potential to contend with the best. A standout rookie beater in Derek Dearking has impressed throughout the season, challenging strong beaters and contributing to Blue Jay's success.
While the lack of communication between beaters and chaser lines may present challenges in close games, Blue Jay's overall athletic prowess and dramatic improvements in the beating game underscore their competitive spirit and potential for success. Often overshadowed by top-tier teams like Mizzou and Rutgers, Blue Jay and teams like them are underrated but deserving of recognition for their consistent performance and ability to shine against formidable competition.
In summary, Blue Jay's strong performances against top teams and improvement throughout the season position them as an honorable mention for the top 10 college quadball teams, highlighting their potential and competitive edge on the quadball field.
HM: Michigan
Michigan emerges as a notable honorable mention for the top 10 college quadball teams in the nation, showcasing a squad that has undergone significant changes from the previous season. Despite hard-hitting departures, including star players like Jack Levy and Ryan Hsu, Michigan retains a strong core led by Amanda Margolis and Rei Brodeur, with the potential return of Julien Theuerkauf adding further depth and talent to the roster.
Michigan has demonstrated an ability to compete and secure victories against difficult opponents. The leadership of Rei Brodeur in the beating game has been instrumental in the team’s success, while MLQ talents like Margolis and Nick Love contribute significantly to the chasing game.
While Michigan's squad may look different from the team that made the final four at nationals last year, the potential return of Theuerkauf and a solid performance at Champaign Qualifiers elevate their status as a top contender. However, inconsistencies in their chasing depth and cohesiveness with their beaters, as highlighted by their loss to CCC, currently place them outside the top 10.
Nonetheless, Michigan remains a proven and storied contender with the potential to make a significant impact once Theuerkauf makes his return. As they continue to refine their gameplay and integrate key players, Michigan stands poised to challenge the top teams and potentially secure a spot among the nation's elite quadball programs.
Editor: Tanner Bonheimer
