Slow start for the varsity water polo team but new and returning talent guarantee a promising season.

This year the Rio varsity team got to a slow start due to maintenance of the pool during their first few practices. Luckily, Jesuit offered their pool to practice for two nights per week. “We couldn’t play much water polo because all teams were there, but we got to get in swimming shape,” said junior Ben Baker.

Last season Rio’s varsity water polo team won section championships in addition to winning league. This year they predict to win league championships once again and make it far in sections.

Baker has been playing water polo for 5 years, three of which he has spent on Rio’s varsity playing 21 side. “Before a big game I can sit in complete silence and think, what am I going to do to change the outcome of this game,” said Baker.

New talent has also been added to the team this year, Angus More a junior who has recently transferred to Rio Americano has decided to continue playing water polo at Rio.

More is relatively new to the sport but has found a spot on the varsity squad. He looks to improve his game this year, “I’m looking to score six to ten goals on average,” said the junior.

“Before every game I have a peanut butter dark chocolate Kind bar,” said More when talking about his pregame rituals. His favorite song to play before a game also happens to be Trap by Rick Ross.

Aiden Jang is a four year varsity player although he has been playing for over 6 years. Over his high school career Jang has been first team All Section and first team All League over three years.

Jang has also been two time National Champ with the olympic development program (ODP). “Before games I usually listen to music and vibe with the boys,” says Jang later stating his favorite song on his pregame playlist is New Level by A$AP Ferg.

With such incredible returning players and growing new talent, the upcoming season looks promising. Watch out for the game against Jesuit in October and expect a winning season.