The girls water polo team played in an at-home tournament on Saturday, April 25. The team won against Northside College Prep but fell short against St. Charles and Maine South.
With a 0-2 record, the team worked hard and still had some victories despite the loss. Coach Mikaela Jopes explains how the tournament went and what the girls did well.
“I would say we have seen St. Charles quite a lot before that,” Jopes said. “And I think they fought really hard that game. The final score was 7 to 8, which is closer than it was the last time that we saw them. So it shows us how much the girls were improving… They never lose their energy.”
She also explains how the girls have been working hard and do not get down on themselves even when the score is not what they hoped for, while also explaining her goals for the rest of the season.
“From the very last minute of every game, they are always thinking of the next thing to do, how they can keep the lead or how they can gain the lead, trying new offensive plays and working on new defensive tactics throughout the entire game,” Jopes said. “A lot of teams don’t think like that. A lot of teams lose their steam by halftime, but I feel like that’s when we really come into our game…Playing-wise though, one of our main goals is shooting more and making more opportunities for us to shoot because our defense is very good. I’m not worried about our defense at all.”
Senior Elyse Tregoning explains what she accomplished throughout the game as well as what she believes she needs to work on. She also explains how she couldn’t ask for a better senior year.
“I had a great tournament, I averaged six steals and two assists, which was a strong performance,” Tregoning said. “However I can definitely improve on my offensive performance. Overall the team did amazing, We’ve had a big focus on communication and movement which we executed both of those things really well. As for my season, it’s been amazing. I love my teammates like family, and they have truly made this season perfect.”
Senior and team manager Brigid Mate explains how the team has been working for this season and how they handle each game before they get in the water.
“The team has been doing really well with communication and calling plays,” Mate said. “Sometimes the first play they try doesn’t work out, but they continue to think throughout the games. They are able to find the other teams strengths and weaknesses, and use them to our advantage.”
She also explains how her senior year has been going. Despite being out for an injury, Mate is still out supporting her teammates.
“Senior year season has been filled with ups and downs,” Mate said. “I am simply happy to be with my teammates and help in any way I can.
Junior Jacinda Cruz also explains how well the game was, despite having a long week.
“The tournament went really well,” Cruz said.”We played our best even after being tired from several games before. I’m very proud of our team because we worked so hard all season and it shows.”
