vs. Tomball Memorial

On Tuesday August 20th, the Stratford Varsity Boys Water Polo team played Tomball Memorial and coasted to an easy 16 to 3 win. The starters got plenty of rest after a 6 to 1 half-time lead and gave way to the young guys who relentlessly attacked the Wildcats with 11 second-half steals. Some new scorers were Brady Herring, Charles Moore, Saleem Hassoun, and Sam Brooks with a sweet left-handed shot. Diego Oliver had 6 blocks, a steal, and an assist as the goalie. This game was a good warmup for the weekend’s four-day tournament to follow.

TEXAS CUP TOURNAMENT

Thursday through Saturday, August 22 – 24th, the Varsity Water Polo Boys played in the Texas Cup Tournament in the Lewisville area near Dallas. The tournament consisted of some of the best teams in the State, giving Stratford the opportunity to gauge where they stand early in the season and gain experience playing against strong teams.

vs. Denton Guyer

The first game on Thursday was against Denton Guyer. Stratford held for a 5 to 5 tie at half before succumbing to the Wildcats 9 to 13. Delsyn Brisbin was offensive player of the game with four goals, and Ricky Conticello was defensive player of the game with three steals and a goal.

vs. Boerne Champion

For the second game on Thursday, Stratford played Boerne Champion, one of the better teams in the State. It was a long game for Stratford losing 15 to 5. Brock Hunter led the offense with two goals, and Devon Beals added with a strong outside shot in the first half.

vs. Marcus

The first game on Friday was against Marcus, last year's State Champion and the eventual winner of this tournament. Marcus had their way with Stratford beating us 18 to 5. Marin Pavlin had a strong game with three steals and a goal.

vs. Flower Mound

The second game on Friday was with one of the host teams, Flower Mound. Stratford had another hard game with another very strong opponent losing 5 to 11. Nathan Moss provided a penalty shot and two goals to go with his four steals.

vs. Deer Park

On the last day, the games got a little easier for Stratford to play the way they want to play. The first game was against Deer Park. This game they jumped out to an early 7 to 1 lead after the first quarter and never looked back. Everyone participated for a relatively easy 16 to 7 win. Diego Oliver had his best game as goalie with 10 blocks, plus a great penalty block, an assist, and two steals. Julian Hemmer had a good game with two goals and two assists. And Charlie Moore came off the bench with a nice goal.

vs. Brandeis

The last game of the tournament on Saturday was against Brandeis High School from San Antonio. Stratford lost 8 to 5. Stratford looked tired, missing over 15 shots, but the Broncos had one of the best goalies seen in the tournament. After the game everyone was ready to head back home!

This tournament was a great experience for the boys, a fabulous opportunity for team-bonding, and will hopefully help get them prepared for District matches that are coming soon!