With the beginning of March comes the excitement of a whole new season of sports. Athletes on the girls’ water polo team began trying out on Feb. 27, but have been preparing during the offseason as well.

“Our goal is to have the most fun season yet,” said Toni Strausser, senior. “The varsity team has a lot of returning players and we’re excited to play together again.”

Although water polo is a spring sport, this did not stop players from working on their skills in the offseason, taking advantage especially of the summer.

“I went to a camp at University of Michigan in June, and it really helped me to both learn new techniques and refine my old ones,” said Jillian Schlais, senior. “Their team is one of the best collegiately, and I had a lot to learn from both their coaches and the other girls that came from across the country to share in the experience.”

The varsity team is currently coached by Christopher Ortiz, and is looking for a new assistant coach.

“We’re excited to meet whoever they hire, and welcome them to the ‘wapo family’,” Strausser said.

The long term goal this season is to win Conference, and for each player to individually improve as well as to work effectively as a team.

“I’ve played in every position, including goalie. This versatility will be valuable during the upcoming season, but I’m also hoping to hone in on which skillset is my strongest, and be the most effective teammate I can,” Schlais said.

In order to prepare for their upcoming meets and tournaments, the girls practice every day after school, and these practices consist of time in the pool, working out on dry land, and classroom time to watch old games and opponents.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in season, because it’s completely different than when we’re out of season,” said Jane Kealy, senior. “I like feeling busy and am happy I get the opportunity to fill that time with something I enjoy.”

The first meet was at home against Morton on March 6 at 6 p.m.