For the last several years, Carlsbad water polo has been a powerhouse, with repeated CIF championship appearances and wins.

Composed of almost entirely seniors, last year’s water polo team defeated Vista to win the CIF title and reaffirmed Carlsbad’s dominance in the sport after years of falling short in the final. Despite losing several key players, this year’s team once again strives to prove its worth and bring home another championship.

Last week, the team made its first impact with a 10-9 win over Foothill in overtime. This was a significant win for this young team as Foothill, the second ranked team in Orange County, beat last year’s more experienced team 18-3. Coach Feaster attributes the team’s success to an ambitious attitude and a drive to win.

“They’re hungry,” Feaster said. “They want to prove that they’re next in line for greatness.”

As the lone returner from last year’s CIF championship team, senior Conner Chanove brings leadership to an otherwise unexperienced team. At Wednesday’s game against Grossmont, Chanove dominated with 3 goals, contributing to the team’s 10-3 win.

“My favorite part about being on the team is being a leader for the younger guys and inspiring them to be better,” Chanove said. “I plan on pushing every single one of my teammates to be their best, just like how I was pushed my freshman year.”

With two early wins under their belt, this year’s team is heading for victory, but the road to get here wasn’t easy. Water polo never stops, and this year was no exception.

“The boys started training immediately after last season ended,” Feaster said. “It’s a lot of work and dedication, and it’s year-round.”

During the off-season, the team has been training both in the water and the weight-room. Practicing up to three times a day in the summer has not only made the team stronger in the pool, it has also united them.

“This is our first year playing with each other as a team, and we work together really well,” senior Ben Feldmann said. “This year is more about teamwork.”

The players continue to dedicate their time and effort in hopes of achieving another CIF appearance.

“We’ve been working really hard in practice everyday, and we always give it our best,” senior Collin Burke said. “We’re taking it day by day and one game at a time.”