WOMEN
US peaks in time for medal

Compiled by Globe Staff, 09/15/2000

WHEN: Sept. 16 (vs. Netherlands), Sept. 17 (vs. Canada), Sept. 18 (vs. Russia), Sept. 20 (vs. Kazakstan), Sept. 23 (medals).

US ENTRIES: Robin Beauregard, Ellen Estes, Courtney Johnson, Ericka Lorenz, Maureen O'Toole, Heather Moody, Bernice Orwig, Nicolle Payne, Heather Petrie, Kathy Sheehy, Coralie Simmons, Julie Swail, Brenda Villa

FAVORITES: 1. Netherlands; 2. Australia; 3. US.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: After dominating the sport for a quarter of a century, the Dutch finally get to cash in at Olympus, especially since world champion Italy failed to qualify. The Americans, who barely made it, have been gangbusters ever since. If they stay hot, they're on the stand.

MEN
Hungary is back in role of favorite

WHEN: Sept. 23 (vs. Croatia), Sept. 24 (vs. Netherlands), Sept. 25 (vs. Hungary), Sept. 27 (vs. Greece), Oct. 1 (medals).

US ENTRIES: Gavin Arroyo, Tony Azevedo, Ryan Bailey, Dan Hackett, Chris Humbert, Sean Kern, Kyle Kopp, Chi Kridell, Robert Lynn, Sean Nolan, Chris Oeding, Brad Schumacher, Wolf Wigo.

FAVORITES: 1. Hungary; 2. Italy; 3. Spain

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: The Hungarians, who used to rule the sport but haven't made the podium in two decades, should win their first gold medal since 1976, with a wild scramble behind them. The Americans, who sagged to seventh last time, after being pegged for a medal, could finish anywhere from third to sixth.