The girls’ varsity water polo team got blown out of the water in a crushing defeat against Drake High School late Tuesday night Oct. 23, as tensions and scores were high throughout the night. The game took place during an emotional Senior Night in the last game of the regular season.
Despite playing a solid game up until halftime, the Giants lost by a total score of 14-2, with the only hope coming from a pair of second-quarter scores. The first point came from lone varsity freshman Libby Hughes, who scored a goal from five meters out on a lob shot that went right over Drake’s goalie. Redwood’s second and final point came from from junior Caitlin Kawamura who lasered in a goal in from close range. After the second quarter, Redwood was unable to get within striking distance, as Drake’s offense and defense were unstoppable and left the Giants struggling to gain momentum.
Although their season ended on an unsuccessful note, Senior Night allowed for some positive moments as the team commemorated their graduating players with roses and posters.
Emotions were strong at the ceremony prior to the game, as all seniors were presented with a poster and a rose to signify the value they have added to the team over the past years. Most seniors seemed excited to make the most out of their last regular game of high school. However, they were unable to translate that electric energy into a Redwood victory.
Despite the loss, senior starting varsity water polo player Alex McGregor was not disappointed with the game’s outcome and stressed the successes they had in the game.
“I know the score may not seem like it but I actually think we played really well, especially because we won the second quarter… I’m really happy despite the outcome,” McGregor said.
McGregor expressed an idea she considers to be more important than any outcome of a game: the importance of team relationships and bonding. Senior captain Mackenzie Allen reiterated this.
“Before the game, we all huddled up and said no matter the score, we’re going to keep a positive energy. Being a senior, my main goal today was just to have fun and to make sure that we went out with a splash,” Allen said.Redwood steals ball from Drake and heads back on offense
Coach Kirsten Frazer had an important final message about her graduating players, especially mentioning their progression through their years on the team.
“Most of them have been with me all four years so watching them grow over all this time is kind of a bittersweet moment, where you are going to miss them next year because they are a big part of the team,” Frazer said. “But you also are really excited for the next phase of their life. It’s been a lot of fun this last year and it’s a great experience to send them off.”
The girls’ varsity water polo team will begin the MCAL playoffs on Oct. 25 against Tamalpais High School, and will proceed to play in the MCAL championships if they win.
