On Tuesday, the boys’ varsity water polo team defeated Justin Siena, 12-7. The game remained tight through the first and second quarter, but then the Giants pulled away in the third and brought home the victory.
This win put the Giant’s in fourth place in MCALs, recording 2-1 in league play. The Giant’s started off the first quarter with a quick two goals by senior captain Cale Tippett and one by sophomore Holden Cooper. They also were strong defensively and only allowed in three goals throughout the first three quarters.
Despite not being able to find the net, junior captain Ely Selden had a strong defensive game, locking down opponents and blocking several shots. Even though the Giant’s easily surpassed the Braves, the team could have played better, according to Selden.
“Our passing was a little bit off tonight and our defense was discombobulated, confused,” Selden said.
Selden also stated that in order for them to grow and play better in the future, they need to have a lot more awareness of the game and work together more.
Selden’s role this year has definitely changed from being one of the younger players on the varsityteam last year and only averaging around 0.8 goals per game to now being a captain. He is second behind Tippet for the most goals on the team, averaging over a goal per game, according to MaxPreps.
Varsity Coach Rudy Kardos seemed to believe one of the reasons Selden was voted captain is because of the respect he shows towards his teammates.
“He has gotten stronger and he has much more respect from the whole team. He still has one more year with us so we will be relying on him heavily for this and the next season, ” Kardos said.
The Giant’s are looking forward to the rest of the season and getting back to the MCAL championship game. Next, they face off against San Marin at home on Thursday, Oct. 5.
