The high school boys’ water polo team is embarking on a new season with renewed energy, strong leadership, and a focus on teamwork.
Senior center Keegan Koester has set his sights on achieving a significant milestone. “I just want to go out there and hopefully break 100 goals,” Koester said. As one of the team’s leaders, he is also dedicated to mentoring younger players. “I would hope to use my experience to help the people that are new in the sport and help the underclassmen have a better time playing water polo and have a good time out there.”
Junior driver Jack Mroz shares this commitment to improvement. According to Mroz, “I want more skills, more goals, and I want to become a better defensive player than I am right now.” In preparation for the season, he has been focusing on balancing aggression with control. “Playing aggressive when I need to and holding back when I need to — playing more careful and more by the rules,” Mroz said.
Head coach Gary Young, now in his third season with the team, emphasized the importance of building trust and chemistry among players. “We need to rely on each other this season,” Young said. He further explained that playing collectively as a team is essential for securing victories, although it presents challenges. To prepare for these challenges, Young organized a month of open polo sessions for non-swim season athletes. “They wanted to get in there. I think that’s great — it shows they’re excited,” Young remarked.
With a foundation built on skill, trust, and team spirit, the Knights are poised for success this season.