Full of motion, excitement, and athleticism, water polo is an underappreciated sport at LT, especially considering both the boys and girls teams are at the top of state rankings. With seasons starting on Feb. 26, both teams have proved that they have what it takes to grasp the State Championship title. 

The girls varsity team consists of 12 girls, including captains Estelle Wright ‘24 and Tess Filipiak ‘24. As of early May, the girls are ranked fourth in the state, following close behind Stevenson High School, Evanston Township, and Naperville North High School. 

“To prepare for the higher level games at the end of the season, athletes have been working a lot on their game speed,” varsity head coach Megan Jacobs. “They have been practicing fast and accurate outside shooting and passing. They have also been working on anticipating the counterattacks so that they can react quickly and stay ahead of the other team.”

Leg strength, speed, good ball handling skills, and grit are what comprise a strong water polo player. Many girls on the team have remarkable standings as players overall in Illinois, Wright especially, with the most Assists (89), and Maya Mladjan ‘25 with the third highest points (156), as of mid-May.

“Our team is very small and tight-knit which allows everyone to have a voice,” Jacobs said. “All players are encouraged to be vocal in the water, meaning they are calling for a drop, calling for the ball when they are open, and telling other players to space out. This communication in the pool is mimicked outside the pool as well, seen when they go to breakfast together, hang out for hours between tournament games, or when they suffer in the cold together for 20 minutes at 9 p.m. waiting for their Wingstop order.”

Last season, a key senior player was injured just before the Sectional game and was not able to play, leading to an upset by Mother McAuley in the sectional championship, Jacobs said. The goal this year is to make it to the State Championship game. 

“Getting some redemption from last year would be nice because I think we left a few things unfinished,” Filipiak said. “I really look forward to seeing my teammates every day and working on something new to improve our playing. It’s really fun to see everyone progress through the season and especially to watch everyone do really well in the more important games like at sectionals or state which I am really excited to see this year.”

The next time the girls will play is at Stevenson High School on May 17 to start the State tournament.

“Water polo is all about community,” Jacobs said. “It is a sport where people come together, enjoy challenges, and work as a team. Water polo is extremely rigorous; you’re simultaneously wrestling opponents, treading water, and controlling a sizable ball one-handed, while also trying to outsmart the other team. But that’s what makes it so fun. You have to communicate and cooperate to score and defend. Teamwork is vital in the pool, and everyone has their part to play, making it a close-knit community of players.”

The boys team consists of three different sections: varsity, JV, and frosh/soph, with captains Brendan Whelton ‘24, Luke Jackson ‘24, and Charlie Vlk ‘24 at the Varsity level. In early May, the team was ranked third in the state, just behind New Trier High School and Naperville North High School. 

“Our team boasts several strengths that contribute to our competitive edge in the water,” varsity head coach Doug Eichstaedt said. “Firstly, our style of play sets us apart, as we excel in counterattacks, relentlessly pressuring opponents, and transitioning to offensive positions. Moreover, our ability to score is a testament to our balanced attack. With multiple scoring threats across the roster, we pose a formidable challenge to any defense. Whether it’s through precise passing, strategic positioning, or individual brilliance, our team consistently finds the back of the net.”

The boys practice mainly from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekday evenings, game planning for certain teams based on their tendencies, Eichstaedt said. 

“Defensively, we are equally formidable,” he said. “Our active defensive strategy seamlessly switches between high-pressure pressing and disciplined zone coverage, effectively disrupting opposing attacks and regaining possession. This adaptability not only stifles our opponents’ offensive efforts but also sets the stage for swift counterattacks, further amplifying our offensive potency.”

Swimming ability, strength, technical skills, tactical awareness, endurance and stamina, teamwork and communication, mental toughness, and versatility are all traits that make up a strong water polo player. The team placed third in the state last year and their main season goal is to place in the state tournament. 

“The team dynamic is a blend of seasoned leadership and unwavering dedication,” Eichstaedt said. “With a wealth of experienced seniors at the helm, our group operates with a clear sense of direction and purpose. They are committed to the collective goal, consistently raising the bar and setting a high standard for performance. This fosters a culture of hard work, mutual support, and continuous improvement, driving our team towards success.”

Whelton, a tri-sport athlete, considers water polo to be his favorite sport to compete in. 

“The culture there is amazing,” he said. “I love the coach, he’s a great person. He always motivates me. That group of guys I really love working with.”

The boys will play next at Stevenson High School in the State Championship tournament on May 17. 

Gallery • 2 Photos

Boys team shakes hands after game against OPRF on April 16 (Fouliard/LION).