Although publicity via articles like this one could counteract the element of surprise for the Riverside Brookfield boys and girls water polo teams, it’s no secret to their coaches these two talented squads have the tools to take on any competition this season.
The Bulldogs’ boys water polo team enjoyed a fine campaign last spring with a 14-8 record, but coach Chris Tabor feels the best is yet to come for this RB crew off to a fast 4-1 start this year.
“I didn’t lose any starters [entering this year],” Tabor said. “We have a lot of senior leadership and there is a sense that this could be a ‘last hurrah’ for this group. Team chemistry is a key element for us. I think we can really surprise some people this season.”
Senior Kevin Wolak, who leads the team with 16 goals and 17 steals, is a four-year starter who can play any position in the pool. Wolak also has been a steadying influence for sophomores like Terry Crowley, Rob LeBeau and Graham Risley. Junior Marius Aleksa also plays an important role in the Bulldogs’ attack.
Senior goalie Drew Clinton (24 blocks) plus a pair of senior drivers Stan Lauritsen and Pat Rankin offer leadership, speed and versatility.
RB girls Pikes a punch
When it comes to state/sport word association, the state of Michigan is probably most associated with football. For new RB girls water polo coach Joel Wallace, who coached the previous five years at Birmingham Seaholm High School in Michigan, he has brought a “Hail to the Victors” vibe into the pool for the resurgent Bulldogs.
Coming off a season that produced only a handful of wins, Wallace has guided RB to a 4-4 mark and aspirations for an even brighter future.
“Coming into this season, I just wanted to create a good environment for us to be successful,” Wallace said. “I was pleasantly surprised with the team in many aspects. They have been very welcoming to me, as well as accepting my coaching style and philosophy.”
Team captain Natalie Pike has helped Wallace ease into his new coaching gig with her stellar play. The three-year varsity player, who plays the hole set position, is a tremendous leader with a strong arm and good speed in the pool. On the defensive end, junior Krystal Krejcik and goalie Alison Vavpopic have kept opposing teams at bay offensively.
Along with Pike, Devon Thomas is another prolific scorer. Lisa Thomas, Catherine Pike and Clare Walsh are a talented trio of sophomores that bode well for the present and future of the RB program.
“There is a lot of potential [here],” Wallace said. “I think they are capable of exceeding their expectations in the not so distant future provided they keep working hard.”