Women’s Water Polo’s Road to Placing First in the Nation

By Sydney Scovic and Samantha Swift, Print Sports Beat Editor and Print Arts Copy Editor 

   This fall, the Acalanes Women’s Water Polo team has achieved success, ranking first in their league and the nation due to hours put in both in and out of the pool and the support they have received throughout the season. 

   "We’ve worked really hard every day to get to where we are, and our coach has guided us every step of the way,” senior Sadie Hendrickson said. “Their feedback and support have been crucial in helping us improve and stay motivated." 

   Women’s Water Polo Head Coach Misha Buchel’s knowledge and this year’s experienced roster factored into the team's accomplishments.

   “We have really good senior leadership,” Buchel said. “We have a high talent level. And so all that put together has, you know, given us a chance to compete at the highest level this year.”

    The team has gotten stronger both mentally and physically. The work they put in during practice often pays off when it is time to compete. 

   "We’ve had more morning practices this year and done a lot of conditioning, which has really helped us improve our stamina and focus,” Hendrickson said. “Putting in that extra work every day has made a noticeable difference." 

    The hard work both in and out of the pool has paid off, along with team trips and bonding that created a tight-knit team. 

    “Starting the season going to the Delta, doing hot-seat introductions, and even going to Tahoe helped everyone get to know each other and build strong connections,” captain and senior Sara Williams said.

   Chemistry between teammates can be a vital part of playing well in games. Some players feel that this year’s bond has contributed to their success. 

   “All the support from everyone, from the parents to the coaches and all my teammates, is so amazing," junior Adelyn Horciza said. “Everyone supports everyone in and out of the water, and our team bond has definitely set us [apart] from other teams.”    

    Competing against local teams, the Dons fought for a place at the top, followed by Carondelet and Sacred Heart Prep.

   “It's a special team that I hope ends up with something to show for it at the end, because they're worthy of it,” Buchel said.