When Maynard Lee stepped onto the pool deck for his first Poly high school water polo practice this fall, his heart pounded with nervousness and excitement as he realized this was his chance to make the varsity team. He had worked hard all summer, always swimming his fastest and taking instruction from the coaches. When they announced the roster for the first game of the season, Lee smiled as he saw his name at the top of the list. This was no easy feat, as the Poly water polo team is renowned for being very competitive, with an overall record of 11-9 and an undefeated league record. This team consists of high-level players.
On Thursday, Oct. 9th, Poly defeated the Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits 7-4. Although Lee did not start in this game, he was the first one off the bench, playing at 4-5 side attacker. As soon as the whistle sounded, it was evident that Lee came prepared, making multiple key defensive plays and greatly assisting the offense in a counter-attack fashion. He proved his strengths by quickly getting back on defense and consistently driving to the goal, diverting defenders’ attention from his teammates and creating opportunities on the offensive side of the pool. Lee’s efforts were rewarded when he scored an incredible goal late in the game, contributing to another win for the Panthers.
Lee’s journey to the varsity roster started years ago. Originally a swimmer, Lee found his passion for the pool at a young age. However, Lee only started playing water polo as an 11-year-old, joining because his friends played and he thought it would be fun to play with them.
Varsity practices can be grueling, and as a freshman, Lee could feel extra pressure to prove himself in the pool. Lee says the adjustment hasn’t been that difficult, largely due to the team’s chemistry. He stated that everyone has been welcoming and encouraging. Being surrounded by a supportive team has made all the difference. One of the main challenges he faces as a freshman is the size and strength difference. To compete, he utilizes different strategies, such as staying mobile.
Poly has been playing remarkably well this season, with an undefeated league record of 3-0, and team morale is up. Lee shared, “The team is welcoming and everybody accepts me as a player.” Lee credits his improvement to his fellow teammates, stating, “They [the captains] promote excellence and always make me try my best.” One of Lee’s proudest moments came at the South Bay Tournament on September 27th. Outnumbered and outsized, Lee was guarded by three Division I defenders, yet still found a way to score.
The water polo team views Lee as more than just a newcomer; sophomore goalie Nicholas Grossi shared, “Maynard is an incredibly talented water polo player. Even as a freshman, he stands out as one of the best players on our team.”
Sophomore set guard Oliver Nelson added, “When he takes a shot, you can count on it going in. Just remember that.” Whether it’s a clutch goal to win the game or a big defensive play in the final moments, Lee’s contributions are never overlooked.
Now that he has secured a spot on the varsity roster, Lee has set his sights on more challenging accomplishments. He hopes to become a consistent starter, with his main goal—both personally and for the team—being to win a CIF Championship.
In addition to demonstrating strong skills, Lee has also demonstrated progress and growth during his time on the team so far, and we’re sure he will continue as a key player on the boys’ water polo team.
