Wissahickon Water Polo, made up of 9th-12th grade co-ed athletes, has been a little known yet increasingly popular program at Wissahickon High school. Despite its “orphan sport” status in the school district, the program has flourished; establishing itself as a solid and competitive club with boys and girls teams achieving notable win-loss records and making appearances at State Championships on a regular basis over the years.
Even as they compete against such huge powerhouses as North Penn, Souderton and Wilson, Wissahickon continues to show its determination and skill level, giving these teams a run for their money. Just this past season the boy’s team placed 4 th at States as they went up against some very formidable contenders. The comparatively tiny Wissahickon Trojan squad has gained an impressive reputation amongst rival teams as they continue to build their program and develop strong players.
Originally begun as a club team in the early 90’s, it grew in popularity as swim team members joined water polo to train for swimming. Eventually becoming a varsity sport in1995, the program has continued to evolve into a respectable, competitive sport, developing athletes in the skills of the game. Just exactly what is the game of water polo, you ask? “It’s a bit of a cross between soccer, hockey and wrestling, but in the pool”, according to Kelsey Tarzia, WHS junior and member of the Water Polo team. “There are 7 players in the water at one time for each side which is comprised of 6 field players and a goalie. The objective of the game is to score the most points by getting the ball in the goal (net or cage).” Like these other sports, there are defensive plays and offensive plays. Though there are rules, many infractions occur under water, unseen by the ref, so anything goes!
Want to get involved in this exciting sport? Check the high school website (http://waterpolo.wsdsports.org) for information and opportunities. The Spring Water Polo club team made up of Wissahickon and non-district players is starting up in mid March and welcomes all middle and high school polo players. It’s a perfect opportunity to be introduced to the sport and/or to further develop skills for the upcoming fall season. With 11 boys and a handful of girls from the 2008 water polo team graduating this school year, there will be plenty of spots to fill on next year’s squad. Swimming skills are important but certainly can be developed once on the team. Polo players usually are in great physical shape due to the intense workouts and practices. The energy and intensity can be intimidating but most polo players find the competitive nature of the game combined with the team camaraderie very rewarding. Water polo players spend a lot of time together in the water, on the pool deck and on the bus, which is why the teammates consider each other family.
At this time, the high school is accepting applications for head coach for the 2009 season as our long time coach, Mr. Matt Rader, resigned this past year. Please direct any inquiries to Mr. Tom Meier in the WHS
Activities office. Terri Hutsell
WHS PTC Co-Chair
2008-09 Boys and Girls Water Polo teams have completed an impressive season. They are recruiting new players to fill the empty spots being vacated by graduating seniors. To join this energetic group of high school athletes, visit the Wissahickon Water Polo Web site at http://waterpolo.wsdsports.org/.