Lincoln-Way Central’s girls’ water polo team achieved a significant victory over Mother McAuley, winning 11-7 on Monday. This marks the Knights’ first triumph against the Mighty Macs in over ten years.
Senior player Angelina Platos spearheaded the team’s offense with five goals. Her teammates Marissa Culver, Emily Ewanic, Sophia Gaier, Molly Olson, and Tessa Nakos each contributed one goal to the scoreline. Genevieve Dal Ponte also played a key role in the team’s dynamic performance.
According to head coach Pam Shaughnessy, “This was a full team effort.” She emphasized the significance of this win by stating, “It’s been over 10 years since we beat McAuley, and for this senior class to close it out this way means everything.” The victory is especially noteworthy given that Mother McAuley was the state runner-up in 2023 and has been a dominant presence in Illinois water polo.
The win improves Lincoln-Way Central’s record to 21-5 and underscores the program’s ongoing development at all levels. Shaughnessy highlighted that their junior varsity team also managed to defeat McAuley, an uncommon achievement.
Looking ahead, the Knights aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face Lane Tech on Tuesday. Shaughnessy remarked, “We’re peaking at the right time,” adding that “this group has worked hard, and it’s paying off.”