The Arcadia High School (AHS) Girls Varsity Water Polo team competed against Herbert Hoover High School (HHS) in the AHS Aquatic Center on Jan. 7; AHS won 19-0. This puts them at an overall record of 15-6, and at the top of the Pacific League. Prior to the start of the game, both teams were seen warming up and practicing in the pool, and the game started later than expected. According to Varsity Water Polo Coach, Janice Clark, this was due to a misreading of the schedule by the other team. 

“They asked for more time to get their full warm-ups in,” said Coach Clark, adding that the game would start at 3:45 instead of the scheduled 3:30 time. AHS started the game with the ball, immediately passing it deftly and scoring within the first minute. The offense led the team to continue scoring goals throughout the first quarter, and the excitement only increased with the enthusiastic cheers of parents and friends from the stands. 

In their first quarter alone, the Lady Apaches scored eight times and were able to hold off HHS from scoring. This trend was maintained throughout the first half of the game, due to AHS’ strategies; AHS ended the second quarter with a score of 15-0. 

“During the game I like to focus on where everyone is and make sure that the offense is covered, [as well as] see who is open to get a quick shot or ejection,” said junior Eva Hernandez. “I also like to focus on the positives because I don’t want the other team to get into our heads and to not let us focus on the negatives; that’s only going to mess up our game.”

The water polo team was supportive of each other throughout the duration of the game, something that likely contributed to their success. Before each quarter started, the team huddled together as they cheered; whenever a player made a good throw, the members would clap for him. When asked about the importance of teamwork and encouragement of team members to their victory, Hernandez was quick to agree that it was absolutely crucial. 

“Teamwork is very important because without it we would be lost on the field,”  said Hernandez. “It’s a one for all and all for one situation.”

The team will be looking forward to their next scheduled game on Feb.4 against Edison High School (EHS)