For the girls water polo team, Gerogie Collister is much more than just a standout player; they’re the backbone of the defense, a motivator and an overall force in the pool. A shutdown goalie who has played since freshman year and earned multiple Prep League honors, Collister emerges as a guiding force for the team, as they hold an 8-3 record on the season, with three wins and one loss in league play.
A great goalie needs to have both lightning-quick reflexes and stellar athleticism, and Collister excels at both. “Even when we lose possession and suddenly shift to defense, Georgie is already alert and prepared to protect the goal,” says teammate and fellow senior captain Mikayla Chan.
Another skill of Colllister’s that does not necessarily show up on the stat sheet is their mentality. As a senior leader on the team, Collister is constantly working to ensure their teammates are at their best, both physically and mentally.
“Georgie is a motivating and thoughtful teammate. It never fails to impress me when they always stay composed, keep a smile on their face, and consistently encourage us in the pool so we can set up an effective defense,” Chan said.
Another teammate, junior utility Samantha Golden, said, “When Georgie works hard to hold down the fort, it motivates the rest of our team to work just as hard. When we are having a rough game, you can count on Georgie to lighten the mood and hype everybody up to continue pushing,” adding, “Georgie brings a positive and motivating energy that rubs off on everyone!”
Collister not only reflects their skills in the pool, but also the core principles of Poly’s program. Poly water polo has always valued hard work and effort. However, team morale and bonding are cornerstones of the program itself. “Georgie represents our values perfectly. They’re not only one of the players who puts in the most effort and always works hard, but is also always making sure everybody is included and having a good time,” Golden commented.
Sophomore Lauren Poplock noted, “Georgie is truly an amazing person both in and out of the pool. They’re an incredible role model, especially to the underclassmen.”
As Collister looks to their last season in the Poly pool, there’s no doubt that their impact in the pool, through communication, leadership, and talent have not gone unnoticed. Collister has been more than just a standout goalie; they’re a competitive spirit and emotional anchor.
With CIF playoffs around the corner, it’s a guarantee that the team will look to Collister for confidence and leadership. No matter the outcome of CIF, Collister will not just be remembered for their amazing saves and reflexes, but for the motivation, enthusiasm, and drive they have instilled in the program.
