Water polo is much more than just throwing a ball into a net—it’s a sport that demands resilience, strategy and teamwork. This season, the Poly girls’ water polo team has exemplified these qualities, asserting their dominance in league play. With an overall record of 8-7 and an undefeated league record of 6-0, the team has shown unwavering determination. Ranked first in the Prep League, they concluded the season strong by advancing all the way to the CIF quarterfinals.
Despite bouncing back from major setbacks, including a three-week hiatus due to winter break and the recent wildfires, the team ultimately fell short in their CIF match against Elsinore High School, with a score of 10-22. This year’s playoff matchup was a significant step up from last year, however, as the team moved up two divisions, facing even tougher competition.
Sophomore Danica Hua said, “Despite only having a small team of nine, we made it the furthest we have ever been, playing in Division 3 this year compared to previous years (Division 5). Our team strived to do our best going into the CIF rounds, and we dedicated ourselves to putting our 100% into the games.”
The team’s focus on effective communication has been crucial to their success, especially on defense.
Reflecting on their defensive strategies, Hua said, “Even when facing formidable opponents, we communicated both in and out of the pool to create strategies that helped us push forward.”
Head coach Sean Grab also praised the Panthers’ teamwork.
“I think how cohesive we are is our biggest strength; everyone really cares about one another and genuinely likes each other, and so we played really really hard for each other,” he shared. “Also, the adaptability and the willingness to push through adversity with circumstances out of our control, they were still fighting and giving everything they had.”
Sophomore Samantha Golden emphasized the team’s defensive success during CIF: “Our team executed defense fairly well throughout CIF. The coaches always had a defense plan and could play out the defense well to force other teams to make mistakes.”
However, the team’s youth made it harder to progress deeper into CIF playoffs.
Grab commented, “I think the team’s greatest challenge was the lack of experience. I don’t think that was in our control—it was a product of circumstance.”
Despite the season-ending loss against Elsinore, the team excelled in many of their other games, outperforming tough opponents like La Salle High School with a 16-8 victory and Los Altos High School 10-7, showcasing their strong communication and teamwork.
As they prepare for next season, the team will bid farewell to three seniors, but they are excited to welcome new freshmen who are eager to contribute to the team’s continued success. Looking ahead, they are determined to maintain their high level of excellence.
Although the CIF semifinals didn’t end as hoped, the season was one of growth and achievement for the Poly girls’ water polo team. With valuable lessons learned and a strong foundation in place, they are committed to working hard and aiming even higher in their pursuit of a CIF championship.