One of the many things Corona del Mar is known for is its girls’ water polo team, and this season they’re keeping the momentum going. With a strong mix of experienced seniors and determined younger players, the team continues to build on its tradition of dedication, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Early mornings, intense practices, and a shared commitment to each other have helped shape a season filled with growth both in and out of the pool.
The Sea Queens have had a very successful season so far, with both teams having a winning record. This year, most of the senior class are transfers, making their season different from others. “We have to try and build a new team, which is difficult, but can also be fun,” senior Emma Armen commented.
Sophomore Sawyer Johnson, the temporary goalie for the Sea Queens, described her team this year as “unique due to gaining a lot of new people, not just from freshmen but transfers as well.” She also added her feelings on being the goalie for CdM, as of now, “I like the feeling of having a good block, especially during a closer game. It’s also nice because I don’t have to swim as much.” Johnson is described by many as committed to her sport. She explained one thing that most people don’t realize about water polo, “I think most people don’t realize how much of a commitment it actually is. We never get much of a break because before and after the high school season, we transition into club season.” Johnson, this season, is most proud of what her team has accomplished: “We’ve put in a lot of work, and in the season it has definitely paid off.”
Freshman Ava Shackleford, known for her wicked shots from the eight-meter mark as an attacker for the junior varsity team, says her favorite memory, so far, as a freshman was “the alumni game, it gives all of us, especially underclassmen, the ability to learn from the best of the best and have fun while doing it.” Shackleford also commented on her experience with the Sea Queens thus far, “This year’s team is amazing, while also unique. What sets us apart from others is our bond; as a team, we treat each other like family.”
Senior Emma Armen, a stellar right-handed attacker (usually where left-handed play) for the varsity team, says the most important lesson that water polo has taught her is, “that it’s okay if your journey is different than others, everyone goes about it a different way, and you have to do what’s best for yourself.” Armen has been most inspired by her mom, she stated: “My mom has inspired me the most throughout my water polo journey because she’s always been there to help and support me with whatever I needed and has always provided me with extra training when I needed it, or has gone out of her way to do whatever is best for me.” She later added, “the biggest way I’ve grown throughout my years in this sport is finding confidence in myself, leading me to be the player I am now.”
This season’s group of girls are all proud of what they’ve achieved this season. They continue to impress with their most recent win being a victory over Huntington Beach (both teams winning 15-4). Their next game is away against Los Alamitos.
