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As the Lady Grizzlies played on Nov. 2 against Sierra Pacific, stakes ran high as they suited up and got that glow in their eyes.

“This year was outstanding for water polo; in the beginning it was rough and we were all beginners,” stated water polo player Isabel Ruiz. “We learned slowly and we made progress; we were able to finish the game with a win.”

To start the game off, the Lady Grizzlies decided to play defense. As Sierra Pacific swam the ball down, they had four shots that were all blocked by Sabrina Provencio, goalie for the Grizzlies. Provencio quickly passed to Ashlee Halopoff who then made a long pass to Isabel Ruiz. Ruiz then scored the first point of the game.

“This game gave us courage and showed how much we improved over the months; we gave it our all as a team and really put our effort and heart out in this sport and I am really looking forward to next year to play with my new Grizzly family,” stated Provencio.

With both teams playing exceptional defense it was hard for the teams to score. The ending score of the first quarter was 1-0, Grizzlies.

As the second quarter started the Grizzlies played defense again. As Halopoff received passes from Megan Carazolez, Kelly Rodriguez and Isabel Ruiz, she was able to score three points. The Grizzlies had a new play that seemed to work almost every time.

“This season went great, we pushed the last game to the limit. We improved a lot and all did great,” said Rodriguez.

As the Grizzlies drove in, the ball was passed to Serena Simpson who scored one point. The ending score of the second quarter was 5-2, Grizzlies in the lead.

“I think the season went well; we picked it up and we all did well,” stated Simpson.

After halftime, both teams lined up with there heads on the lane line to start the second half. Sierra Pacific took possession of the ball and swam it down to be stolen from Kayla Maldonado, left wing for the Grizzlies.

“I really think this season was an amazing expierence for not only me but for everyone,” said Maldonado. “We did a great job at all our games. Even though we didn’t win, we always stay positive and kept our heads up. Winning our last game means a lot to me because we finished with a win and the biggest smiles on our faces.”

Isabel Ayala swam the ball to the side to dump it off to Rodriguez. Ayala was successful on defense.

“At the beginning of the season, most of us were first time players, but towards the end of the season we all progressed and it paid off for the win,” stated Ayala

A three pass play between Provencio, Carazolez and Halopoff lead to another point for the Grizzlies as it was again passed to Simpson. The ending score of the third quarter was 7-4, Grizzlies in the lead.

“Throughout this whole season our girls played hard and continued to improve through every game and practice,” stated Carazolez. “We all played with heart. It didn’t matter if we won or lost, what mattered was that we played our hearts out. We had the perfect close of the season with our first win. One thing that I can tell is that next year we will have many repeats of today’s game. I love my teammates; we all deserved that win.”

In the forth and final quarter of the last game of the season, the Lady Grizzlies gave it everything they had. As Mayra Zendejas, Daisy Cupis, Briana Coulter and Savannah Pipkin entered the game again they all had good defense and passes. Pipkin stole the ball from the opposing whole set over three times.

“I think this year’s season went really well!” stated Pipkin. “Some of us really improved from the first day and we all played really hard. It’s the best season I’ve had since my freshman year. It meant a lot to win our first game. It shows that our hard work really did pay off. Good job ladies; I hope to see your next season.”

Halopoff was successful on offense and defense as she scored a total of seven points for the Grizzlies.

“This season was very scary in the beginning because I thought we weren’t going to have a team,” stated Halopoff. “Once people started hearing about the sports, the right people started showing up to play and be on the team. I am so lucky to play with these girls and our first win was relaxing. Next year is the year we have to kick it up ten notches, and I believe we can beat anyone out there.”

As Cupis swam it down she had an opportunity to make a goal but was blocked by Sierra Pacific’s goalie.

“In the beginning, our girls struggled and we fought for a team, and in the end it all came together and we all put in effort and worked hard,” stated Cupis. “Every practice we tried our hardest for the game. It all was worth it because we won our first game and I am ready for what next season brings me.”

Zendejas blocked a pass that was intended for the point and Coulter kept up with her player who tried to score but was unsuccessful.

“We all pulled together and became one; we communicated very well as well as defense and passing,” stated Coulter. “Next year is going to be different, but we will adjust and I know we will have fun.

As the Grizzlies put their physical and mental hope into the game, the ending score was 11-7, Grizzlies took the win.

“I think we did so amazing!” stated Zendejas. “Winning meant so much to us, because we tried so hard all season, and came close to winning a lot of teams. Leaving with a win only makes our hearts jump for joy because all that dedication and hard work paid off. I can’t wait until next season to be with my family, teammates and friends in the water working harder than this season to win every game.

This was the last game of the season for the Lady Grizzlies, but they are all looking forward to next year.

“We ended on a great note; everyone participated and the wings and flat were an exceptional part of the game, as well as Sabrina who was the goalie who only had a one game experience, stated girls water polo coach Mike Chapman. “Everyone was motivated to play the last game of the season.”