As the Boy’s Water Polo season comes to an exciting end, many fans and players can say it was definitely one to remember. With a current record of 8-10, many of the players feel as though this was one of their top years.
“Out of my three years on this team, this year has been the best,” explained senior Leo Renteria. “We’ve won more than double the amount we have in prior years.”
Although this season has been one to celebrate, senior Shawn Valdez decided to comment more deeply on his experience.
“This season has been wonderful, as we were able to play as a proper team with good coordination,” Shawn said, “but there’s still errors to fix.”
Both seniors stated Merced College was one of their top choices to continue with their water polo journey.
Upon being asked to reflect on the beginning of the season, Coach Marcus Valdez explained how he saw the team grow through a mentor’s perspective, pinpointing their growth outside of just teamwork as well.
“From when I got here, most of the guys were already in their own groups,” Coach Marcus reminisced, “but now they’re more of a developed team together. A lot of them are a lot better, in swimming and the knowledge of the sport.”
Coach Valdez elaborated how he wanted to help his athletes train hard not only for the sport, but for their futures as well.
“I just want to prepare them for what their future’s going to be like if they do want to continue sports or even just give them life lessons, and try to instill those into practices and games,” described Valdez.
Both senior players decided to share advice they felt new incoming players could benefit from before starting next year’s water polo season.
“Something to be aware of before joining water polo is that it’s a physical sport and playing as a team is crucial.” Shawn Valdez advised.
Leo Renteria also agreed, choosing to add in his own hindsight. “The sport is physically demanding. You need to be accustomed to playing in a new environment that can be replicated by none other,” Renteria continued. “It’s really team oriented and games cannot be won alone. Attending practice is necessary as there is always room for improvement.”
Finally, Coach Marcus Valdez also chose to share some guidance alongside his players. “To be part of this team is to be there for your teammates when they need you and doing anything you can just to help your team have the best outcome during a game.”
