The Selma Boys Varsity Water Polo team has an overall current record of 3-4. So far they’ve played Sunnyside, Sanger West, Dinuba, Hanford West, Mission Oak, Reedley, and Kingsburg, where they won against the first three. Reflecting upon these games, the team hopes for an improvement within this season.
“Our goals for this year are to adjust to the new league and improve our understanding and execution of the sport,” Coach Marcus Valdez states.
Coach Valdez is a Selma high alumni, who has played varsity water polo for 3 years. This year he has stepped up for the opportunity to coach for both JV and Varsity water polo teams.
“Water polo requires a lot of endurance and that’s definitely my biggest challenge. I try to give it my all in practice so I can build up as much endurance as I can for our games.” expresses Senior Nico Colado.
“Learning the game and all its rules can be tricky but solid effort and obedience makes it a lot easier.” This is Colado’s first year participating in the Varsity Water Polo team.
Waterpolo is a complex sport that requires attention in all aspects. Being that a lot of these student athletes are new to the sport, it is hard to adjust to the competitive environment.
“Not only are you constantly staying on top of water, but you have to compete with your defender which is very tiring,” Colado shares.
“I hope to improve on getting mentally and physically stronger,” shares senior Matthew Mora. This is his second year playing for the sport.
Coach Valdez recognizes that waterpolo is a very interactive, team dependent sport. The team ensures to be willing to work together to improve their game and skills.
“Teamwork is extremely important in this sport so at practice we make sure everyone works together and improves each day. Many of the athletes are friends outside of the pool. I’m proud of the acceptance the older athletes have shown to their incoming teammates as well,” Coach Valdez states.
The strategy going into games is to play strong defensively with as little fouls as possible.
“I strive to learn and improve every day. I want to be a leader and be there for my team when they need me. As a team, we’re working hard to make playoffs and we’re currently on the right track. The main goal is to improve as a team, not just myself,” Colado expresses.
Looking into the future, the team is excited to play on their Senior Night against Reedley. They faced many setbacks, but “When we competed against them in our fourth game, we didn’t play to the best of our abilities. Minor errors and fatigue really affected us. I truly believe by the next time we face them we can really compete and potentially come out with a win,” Colado shares.
If you are interested in playing water polo, or wanting to know if you are a good fit, reach out to Mrs. Sultenfuss or Coach Valdez.
