The UC High Girls Water Polo Team is back in the pool and looking forward to an amazing season. 

   Despite keeping high spirits, the Girls Water Polo Team always knows when it’s time to get down to business. Senior Captain Erika Johnson said, “We are friends with a lot of the girls that we play against throughout the season through our clubs. It’s easy to not take the game so seriously when playing against your friends. We have to block it all out and remember that we’re out there to win.” 

   “Our coaches and players take our practices and games very seriously, because it is a time where we can improve our skills and get ready for our next game,” said Senior Captain Olivia Klapperich. “Every time we get in the pool we have an opportunity to improve ourselves,” added Johnson.

   So far, the team has faced some big challenges. Johnson said, “This year is definitely a rebuilding year due to the loss of some key players on our team from the previous year, but we are still having lots of fun.” Klapperich added, “We are in a tough division this year, but we are trying our best to work as a team and push through the season.”  

  Water Polo is a highly competitive and athletic sport. “Games are about an hour long and consist of seven minute quarters,” said Goalie Alexandra Lapikova.

   Captains Klapperich and Johnson revealed that being captains requires being a role model to their teammates. Being a captain taught them discipline as well as how to communicate and how to be determined to keep everyone on track. “During a game, I try my best to be the voice of the team and lead when it is needed,” said Klapperich.

   Johnson shared, “What I do as captain is restate what the coach wants done during a practice or game, lead cleanup at the pool, and bring positive energy to every practice and game.”

   Since there is no pool at UC High, the Girls Water Polo Team has to take transportation to practice at the Clairemont Recreation Center. They practice everyday from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. in order to maintain and improve their skills. “Previous years practices were held at the UCSD Canyonview Aquatic Center. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Clairemont Recreation Center is now our home pool,” said Johnson. 

   Having high hopes for the season comes with personal goals. “My goal is to do everything I can to help them team win as many games as possible, and then make it out of the first round of CIF,” said Klapperich. Johnson shared her sentiment, and looks forward to finishing her senior season strong.