Selma High’s varsity boys’ water polo team is off to a strong start to their season, earning key wins in games as well as weekend tournaments. With a record of 7-3, the team has been setting its sights on advancing to playoffs later in the season.
Last year, marking the first time in Selma High history for the boys team to make it to the postseason, has the team eager to make it back once again.
“Our goal as a team this season is to make it back to the playoffs,” Coach Marcus Valdez commented. “I couldn’t be more proud seeing my student athletes grow not only as individuals, but as a team.”
Junior and co-team captain Andrew Bustinza, who’s been on the team for three years, shed some light on his team’s dedication this season. while also making room for adjustments.
“Our season this year has gone out to a great season, probably the best it’s ever been. But I would like our team to improve their intensity to really want to win, even when we’re losing,” Andrew shared.
Being only a junior, Andrew also shared his agenda for making his next season his best one yet.
“My plans for senior season are to just improve, not only individually but as a team, and to also make it to the playoffs [again],” Andrew said.
Coming close to the end of his last high school season on the team, senior Irving Vejar shared his personal insight on the team.
“We have guys that will try to push you to do your best,” Irving explained, “we still have things to improve on, of course, but the chemistry with each other is there.”
Both players shared advice they felt could be useful for incoming players and even students who’ve never heard of the sport before.
“Water Polo is really hard, but it’s infinite times more fun than you may think. If you [the students] want to come, it’s not going to be easy, but you will have fun,” Andrew shared.
Irving Vejar then followed, “Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Also, play with all your heart.”
