Cypress High School’s girls water polo team had a season filled with ups and downs. Despite facing numerous challenges, the team managed a record of 4-10. Even though the win-loss record might not fully reflect their efforts and potential.
The team’s first victories came from their hard-fought matches against Pacifica High School. These games were particularly significant as they demonstrated the team’s ability to strategize and execute plays effectively. The matches were intense and closely contested, the first match ended in 4-2 and the second ended with 5-3. The players showed remarkable teamwork and skill, which ultimately led them to their win over Pacifica.
Senior Team Captain, Mackenzie Romero, emphasized the importance of commitment and motivation. Although her team lost important seniors and starters last year, the girls were able to come together when it mattered the most. Romero acknowledged these challenges, and helped to solve them through team meetings, morning practices, and going over games. When asked how they can keep up their win momentum, Romero responded, “Bringing us closer together, team chemistry, having a lot more team bondings and knowing each other helps to make the game easier.”
The highlight of the season was undoubtedly their major win against Segerstrom High School. Coach Garret Potter stated, “We were really tired and we just came off a tough loss and we wanted to finish off the week with a high note.” In this match, Cypress dominated the pool, securing a resounding 14-2 victory. On the same day, Winter Formal pressured the players during the match, having an important team talk saying, “We play for formal.” Potter explained that the player’s ability to counter, defend and show off their amazing offense, contributed to their win. This match was a clear demonstration of the team’s capabilities when everyone made a positive commitment. The players exhibited excellent coordination, strong defense, and relentless offense.
Throughout the season, the team faced several tough opponents, which contributed to their overall record. “I think no matter what the result was, the most important thing was that we stayed a team, we were all there for each other,” said Potter. Despite the losses, each game provided valuable lessons and experiences that helped the players grow and improve. “Some losses were tougher than others but it only made the victories feel even better,” said Potter.
One of the standout players this season has been Mackenzie Romero. She’s made many strategic passes and, “made a great job committing to the team and making everyone accountable,” Potter said. Her ability to read the game and make smart decisions has been crucial in many of their matches. Freshman Gianna Nasser has also been a bright star for the team. Showing great potential, Nasser quickly made a name for herself. Sophomore Miley Main has also shown amazing talent in the water. Her performance this season has been outstanding. As a freshman, she has a lot of room to grow and develop, “I’m excited to see how she progresses in the coming years,” Coach Potter says.
The team has had a challenging season, but they’re not letting that dampen their spirits. With this season’s challenges, the promising postseason can bring in newer talent in the team. Romero said, “A lot of the girls who want to try out next year try to swim in the postseason,” hoping to improve the player’s fastness and confidence over the year. The team is looking forward to improving and coming back stronger next season.
“This season obviously didn’t go as well as we thought it would but I think it’s one of those seasons that we’re supposed to have, it’s a developmental season where everyone finds out what kinds of talent they have and what their role is on this team, and it’s only going to help us next year,” stated Potter.
