Girls varsity water polo is starting strong with a 21-4 record, making them considered one of the strongest programs in the state. Similarly, boys varsity is dominating with a 19-7 standing overall.

Both the girls and boys are off to impressive starts as they adjust to new competition in the LORAC: the brand-new aquatic center. Led by Captain Lauren Sturges, the girls have destroyed the competition with a crucial win 7-6 over South Eugene.

“I feel very confident with where our team is right now, but I know we have a lot of growing to do before the championship,” said Sturges.

The boys team is also making noise. They opened with a 13-1 win against Hillsboro and are improving. Senior Aidan Webster praised the team’s progress.

“We’ve only lost one game so far,” said Webster. “Our offense and defense are both coming together.”

For Webster, motivation comes from focusing on his teammates. “No matter the ups and downs,

I always think back to: what is my team going through? How can I help them?” said Webster. Aside from thoughts on team performance, the new pool has been an improvement for both teams, with senior Avery Tyson explaining how the LORAC has been a “huge boost.”

“We’re adjusting very well because we have a lot more space,” said Tyson. “It makes practices easier and everybody gets more time.” Webster admitted it seemed “massive” at first, finding difficulty swimming the longer distance, but quickly came to love the facility. Beyond wins and facilities, this season has been about collaboration. Sturges says that the tight South Eugene game showed the team’s potential.

“It’s the people I’ll remember most,” said Webster.