Clayton Valley High School Water Polo Boys Season Preview

The Clayton Valley High School Water Polo Boys are gearing up for an exciting and challenging season ahead. With goals set high and top returning players leading the way, the team is determined to make this season one to remember. I had the privilege of speaking with Coach Gabe Martin to get a preview of what we can expect from the team this year. When asked about the overall goals for the team this season, Coach Martin shared that their top priority is to go further than last year and advance past the second round of the North Coast Section (NCS). This is quite an ambitious goal, but it is evident that the team is up for the challenge. Coach Martin also emphasized the importance of mutual trust within the team. Water polo is a team sport, and it is essential for players to have faith in each other's abilities and work together towards a common goal. One of the key components to the team's success lies in the top returning players from last season. Coach Martin highlighted two standout players, junior Kyle Stillinovich, and senior Dominic Maffei. Both players bring a unique set of skills to the team, but what sets them apart is their high IQ and exceptional playmaking abilities. These qualities are crucial in water polo, where quick thinking and strategic moves can make all the difference. With such talented players leading the team, it's no surprise that the boys are looking forward to an exciting schedule. The team will play a total of 24 games this season, and there are some tough opponents lined up. However, two games, in particular, stand out for the team – Northgate and Alhambra. These are two strong teams that will undoubtedly put the boys' skills and teamwork to the test. Coach Martin explains that these games are highly anticipated, and the team is eager to face off against these tough opponents. As we continued our conversation, Coach Martin shared some insights about the team's preparations leading up to the season. He mentioned that the team has been working hard during the off-season, both in and out of the pool. The players have been focusing on building their strength, endurance, and water polo skills to ensure they are in top form for the upcoming season. Additionally, the team has also been working on building chemistry and developing a strong team dynamic. These efforts will undoubtedly pay off as the team takes on their opponents this season.