Girls’ varsity water polo (5-1 Peninsula Athletic League Ocean) lost their first league game of the season against undefeated Sequoia High School on Monday, Sept. 30, dropping the contest 12-10.
The Panthers seemed to have the advantage early on, winning the ball after the sprint. They maintained this energy during the game as Burlingame asserted their dominance in both offense and defense. This aggression was matched by Sequoia as both teams displayed strong performances. Junior and co-captain Aria Sherwood was a key contributor to the Panthers’ initial success and scored the team’s first two goals within the first few minutes.
However, the Ravens responded after the first quarter, eventually taking a lead they would never relinquish.
Despite the loss, senior co-captain Kelcey Flenniken felt the team impressed and continues to play well against good competition.
“I think we played really well,” Flenniken said. “I know we lost by two, but it was a really strong game. They were number one in the league and undefeated but I think we worked as a team really well.”
So far, the Panthers have made big improvements and gotten off to a strong start this season compared to last. According to Flenniken, the connection between the returning players and the new teammates on the roster is producing growth. The team boasts natural team chemistry, which has brought Burlingame early season success.
“Obviously we got dropped down a league,” Flenniken said. “But I think we’ve been working as a team better and facing competition that’s more similar to us.”
So far, the team has only lost two games all season, a major step in the direction. The team expects to compete with Hillsdale and Sequoia High School all season for the PAL Ocean Division crown.
“We really have potential for this to be a great season,” Flenniken said.
After the slim loss to Sequoia, the Panthers are preparing for their next home game next week against Mercy Burlingame. As they head into the upcoming week of practice, the squad looks forward with a positive and confident mindset to the rest of an exciting season and working toward a potential playoff berth.
