The Stratford Girls Water Polo season ended last Tuesday with a loss to the Bridgeland Bears in the first round of Regional play at the WW Emmons Natatorium. The competition was fierce and the play was intense. The 0-0 score at the end of one period can be credited in part to exceptional play from sophomore Emmie Hanvey in the goalie cage. The Bears made quick work of penalties against the Spartans and were up 3-0 in the second until sophomore Elizabeth Conner put Stratford on the scoreboard: 3-1 Bridgeland at the half.

Junior Hana Riley’s goal put the game within a point; third quarter ended 3-2 Bridgeland. But that was it for scoring for the Spartans. The defense remained tough by Stratford, tougher by Bridgeland, and the Bears found their shooting arms and mastered the perfect lob.

Final: Stratford 2, Bridgeland 7

Congratulations to senior co-captains Lily Askounis and Emma Jackson for four years of outstanding Varsity water polo action, including being named to the first-ever Girls Water Polo All-District Team in 2022. And cheers to senior Lindsay Wong for trying out a new sport late in high school and bringing energy and enthusiasm to the Spartans' game.

In the good hands of Head Coach Joseph McCommons, the returning players have a great future ahead:

Juniors: Avery Garcia, Hana Riley, Sarah Beth Roady

Sophomores: Elizabeth Conner, Emmie Hanvey, Molly Kate Minyard, Leah Claire (LC) Nall, Lilli Oteiza, Bella Smith

Freshmen: Piper Barrow, Luisa Becerra, Audrey Bown, Jill Hyland, Abby Middlebrooks, Emily Pace