The Cypress High School Girls Water Polo team is pushing towards a successful season with a current record of 10-8, sharing a strong goal of qualifying for CIF. 

The varsity team has remained competitive throughout the season while continuing to improve game by game. Varsity player Ava Soliai (11) credits the success of this season to the team’s chemistry. “Teamwork is having the same goal and putting personal issues aside to reach it,” Soliai said. She noted that the team has been very “locked in” this year, which helped show positive results. 

Team captains Judith Pedroza (12) and Nayeli Munoz (12) have helped guide the team through a competitive season. Pedroza describes the difference between last year and this year. “Most of us are seniors, so we’re really determined to win as many games as possible,” she said. “Last year, we weren’t as focused, but this season we’re much more driven.” 

Munoz, who has been playing water polo since eighth grade, encourages her teammates to push each other towards success. “Everyone’s pushing each other to improve,” she said, “That’s what makes us better.” 

By introducing new athletes to the sport, junior varsity has also helped the program grow. Junior varsity player Hannah Hwang (9), who had no prior experience in water polo, found it exciting to be a part of the team. “ I saw some videos of girls doing water polo and it looked really fun,” Hwang said, “So I tried out and I met many new people who were also motivated.” 

According to head coach Jim Armstrong, effort is built with the sport. “I don’t really have to push them to try their hardest,” he stated, “The training they do is really hard as is, so just by being on the team they have already made a commitment to do their best.” The challenging exercises require athletes to give their maximum effort and show dedication to the team. 

The team continues to progress with a strong mindset. Through the difficult exercises and competitions, the girls strengthen their commitment to the goals of the team.