Two-time defending national champion Stanford starts the season in the top spot in the Collegiate Water Polo Association Preseason Poll. Last year's national runner-up USC comes in at No. 2.

• Poll: Coaches' 2012 Championship: Recap Photos Highlights

Maggie Steffens, an incoming freshman at Stanford, raised eyebrows Monday when she scored seven goals  -- including six in the first half -- for the U.S. as the Americans defeated Hungary 14-13.

• More Olympics: McCrory wins bronze | Duke diver wins silver  NCAA Olympians: By School | By Sport

Four members of the USA Women's National Water Polo team share a special bond -- they are the squad's only current student-athletes. Find out what the women expect in London and beyond.

• More Olympics: Duke's McCrory diving for gold | Ipsen's eyes on Olympic prize 50 Athletes to Watch

Tournament MVP Kate Baldoni anchored the defense with 15 saves as Stanford won its second consecutive national title 6-4 against USC. The win gives the Cardinal three total water polo titles.

• Feinswog: Stanford talent pool getting deeper More: Recap | Bracket: Interactive  Printable  Photos