By: Abigail Chai, Entertainment Editor
The 2023 season for the Mills girls’ water polo team was one to remember, as it had both its challenges and successes. This year in particular was especially different, as there was a clear lack of seniors on the girls team. However, Morgan Chu (11), was able to step up and led the team this season, persistently showing strong dedication to the team.
In her third year of water polo, Chu is now well versed in the sport, consistently demonstrating strong skills in the water. In her first year of waterpolo she was titled ‘MVP’ whilst in sophomore year was given ‘best offensive player’, creating waves early on. Chu, the appointed team captain of the 2023 season, shared the obstacles and triumphs of the year.
Chu is no stranger to the role as a team captain, as she held the same position on her softball team last year. Using her previous leadership knowledge, it allowed her to lead the team without much difficulty. She emphasized the importance of helping the team collectively reach their goals this season, along with her communication with the girls, trying her best to help them when needed.
Before the season officially began, there was a shortage of girls on the team, posing the question if there would even be a team this year. Chu cited her initial concerns surrounding the circumstances stating, “I was worried in the beginning because I was really looking forward to playing this year.” Luckily, after pulling some strings, they were able to garner enough girls to continue the season, which Chu expressed gratitude towards.
With the addition of new girls to the team from different grades, there was also the introduction of a new coach. Since 2020, the girls water polo team has been coached by Christy Wong, a Mills alumni. However, 2022 marked her last year coaching the team, meaning Mills had to find another coach to fill her role. Before the 2022 school year had ended in May, the girls were able to meet their new coach for the year, Marissa Moreno. Initially, Chu found it to be “rough” whilst trying to adjust to the new coach as she was unfamiliar with how Moreno played the sport but as the season progressed, the team was able to adjust to Moreno’s coaching style. Chu felt better acquainted with Moreno’s techniques now, stating, “It makes it easier for me to execute what she wants in the pool.”
Aside from the early challenges, the season was one to remember with many memories being made within the team. Their first win of the season was especially momentous, with widespread joy amongst the team that night. Chu looks back at the moment happily, proud of the work they had accomplished.
With the end of the season closely approaching, Chu is beginning to think about the future of the team. She hopes to take the lessons they learned this year and build off of them and hopefully have more girls join the team next year. She also shared her anticipation for a more successful and fun season in the approaching future.
