Driver Melissa Collins was one of two late additions to the Olympic team after the International Olympic Committee granted two more spots to each country in women's water polo. Collins had been training with the Olympic squad anyways in case the rule change would happen.

 "I had almost lost all hope to go to Sydney," said Collins, a Montreal-based physiotherapist.

  "When the rumours started that the number of players would increase, I tried not to pay attention. I only believed it when the coach told me. I can't wait to get there."

  Collins graduated from McGill University in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy. She was a national junior team member in 1994-95 and made her debut with the senior squad at the FINA Cup held in France in September 1997.

2000 Games
Sept. 22: Canada def. Kazakhstan 9-8 in overtime to finish fifth in standings.
Sept. 20: Canada lost 7-4 to Australia, dropping to 1-2-2 in round-robin play.
Sept. 19: Women: Canada lost 7-4 to the Netherlands, dropping to 1-1-2 in round-robin play.
Sept. 18: Canada def. Kazakhstan 10-3 in round-robin play for one win and two ties in three games. Sept. 17: Canada tied U.S. 8-8 in second preliminary game.

Photos
The Canadians listen during a time out


2000 Games Water Polo Coverage