09/27/07 ~ B - Water Polo
Weekly Update - Coach Gabe Sclafani

The last few weeks I have seen the varsity team enjoy the blessings and lessons of an intense, competitive tournament (America’s Finest City), which has produced intrinsic rewards and added confidence. Also, the first varsity league game was played at Sacred Heart Prep, a top-ranked team in California. Although we did not win the game, the team has continued to bond and support each other in the pool. The competition has been fierce, but this team’s effort has not dwindled in the face of adversity. Nor has their God given determination and faith been reduced.

In the America’s Finest City tournament, 3 solid victories were enjoyed, as well as two defeats from difficult opponents Both the wins and loses have given this team a crucial level of added motivation. Both loses were eked out by the opposing teams, who were both known as high caliber squads for the tournament. The largest lesson learned may have been that both loses were to high caliber opponents, who are completely within our level of play. Victory was by no means out of reach, further encouraging the team to increase their level of play.

The junior varsity has continued to learn the basics of the game. They are making great strides and have also remained motivated. The first league game against Sacred Heart yielded great experience, but a lopsided loss as well. The opposing team simply had a great deal of more experience and familiarity with the game. However, our team has not lamented this outcome because the current seniors began their playing careers in the same way. Yet, our JV squad has been the beneficiary of lopsided victories as well. This juxtaposition of game results is inherent to the JV level of play. The coaching staff has steadily communicated that what matters most is what the team takes away from each game. The program will remain focused on the principles which produce successful players, and lives, with the grace of God.