Boys’ water polo, 0-2, has aspirations “to finish with a strong season” and to go deep in playoffs, said senior Luke Coulter, a captain alongside senior Jesus Santiago.

Today, the Gondoliers host San Pedro Pirates, 1-7. In preparation for the match against San Pedro, Coulter said, “We are practicing hard in and out of the water when we can.”

However in the past this has proven to be a challenge as they have not been able to use the Venice Indoor Pool for more than a year. 

These past two matches against Culver City and Santa Monica have been the team’s only time in the water. They faced the Culver City Centaurs September 20, and the Santa Monica Vikings September 21. 

“It is still such a struggle being an aquatic sport without a pool,” said Coulter. 

While not having a pool has been notably, the team’s biggest weakness that has not stopped them from pushing forward this season.

“We have a strong roster this year filled with guys who are passionate about the sport and want to win,” said Coulter.

In the game against Culver City, freshman Ryder Alaniz showed great promise as he was one of the top scorers and stepped up for the team when most of the players had been out, Coulter said.

“He has a cannon for an arm and a love for the game,” he said.

Sophomore Micah Wong has also proven to be a weapon with his incredible speed in the water and has become a leader for the newer players.

Coulter highlights the team’s seniors Fateh Aliyez and Eric Hwang, who he said greatly contributed to their team. 

“All of the guys have a ton of grit. All of that comes from the numerous challenges we face,” said Coulter.