A new season of water polo is starting the year strong. Not a lot of people know what water polo is. Senior Laurel Wilson defined water polo as “a competitive team sport” that has a competition between “two teams of seven players” while treading water to “score goals.” water polo is a combination of several other sports, such as soccer, basketball, and more but in the water. This year’s season has just begun and looks forward to all that will be accomplished.
The team is looking forward to making various improvements this year. Head coach Mrs.Gillis mentioned, “We added a lot of games to very challenging teams to try to improve our abilities, also we’re looking to participate in more tournaments.” Senior Jayson Monks commented on his personal goals, “ I’m going to try my absolute hardest to just push myself harder when we swim when we tread, when we shoot, everything.” Several players have their missions to achieve to get stronger for the success of this year. Another development being made by both teams is increasing communication to strengthen the bond between everyone. Some teamates are looking forward to potentially being named captain. Senior Mateo Ramos noted, “I have been working hard to earn the role of captain of the team this year, and if that does happen I’m hoping I can help improve the team in any way.”
Despite the improvements being made this year, there are a few upcoming challenges they expect to face. The biggest one is the struggle to get people out and watch the games. Everyone needs to be cheered on, as Mrs.Gillis explained, “We don’t have students come to watch the game.” Another challenge would be the immense amount of new players joining the team. Although this is great news, the team needs more freshmen to join so they can build up their strength throughout high school. Several individual players are facing some personal challenges. Laurel Wilson revealed, “This year being my senior year I’m facing some heartache knowing that it’s my last season.” While Jayson Monks discussed his conquest of mental barriers to push his limits. Another member, Sophomore Sophia Powell, is struggling with “only swimming my whole life so all the rules and plays are a lot to keep straight in my head.”
Water polo is closely associated with the swim team. Keeping your strength throughout the year is insanely important. Mrs.Gillis commented how one must “start thinking about water polo” around the time of swimming season, “if they can compete in the swim team that’s going to keep them fit” which makes aquatic programs work hand in hand so one’s strength can be maintained throughout the year.
Everyone is looking forward to every game that’s happening this year. According to Mrs.Gillis, the best place to participate is at Lake Brantley since it’s where practice is held. although, “we don’t have a lot of home games.” Mateo Ramos affirmed practice is from 7 pm – 9 pm which can be long including the drive, but hopes to see people out enjoying the school’s team. Student support is greatly appreciated. the games are fun and lively, and you are sure to have a great time.
