The Girls water polo team lost at home against Rowland HS by a score of 3-20 on Jan. 18.
Despite the discouraging score, member Emily Axelrod (11) does not feel bad about the game, noting the incredible amount of effort and preparation they put in throughout the week.
“We might have lost by a lot, but we prepared extra hard for this game and we did pretty good, regardless of the score,” Axelrod said. “We practiced more throwing and shooting skills, as well as techniques for defense. This is only our third game this season and we were really working together in the pool.”
Additionally, Axelrod acknowledges the many new players that were admitted on to the team this year. She applauds them for their effort, as well as praises her whole team’s vast improvement from the beginning of the year.
“Our first couple of games were a disaster, but we have improved dramatically in just a couple of games,” Axelrod said. “Our new members learned fast as well. In general, I got faster as well as learned more skills, and our drivers have also shown more aggression. These factors led us to a good fight.”
Moreover, player Jessica Stanek (11) discusses how being an upperclassman comes with different responsibilities, as well as how she is able to help her team.
“As an upperclassman, it is my responsibility to help the newer players excel during practice and games,” Stanek said. “During practice I give my teammates advice on how to correct their forms, and during the last game I directed players on which positions to take so they would be open to receiving the ball.”
Finally, first-year player Samantha Wu (11) reflects on the challenge of joining the team in her junior year.
“One big difficulty that I have faced is keeping up with the other girls,” Wu said. “I do see improvements in myself but I hope to become even better in the future.”
All in all, however, Wu is grateful she joined the team, as the experience has taught her many valuable lessons.
“One important thing that I have learned from being on the team is to rely on your teammates and coaches to help you get out of tough situations,” Wu said. “I am grateful to have found such wonderful teammates.”
Girls’ water polo will face off against Upland HS in an away game on Jan. 27.
