Water Polo 2010

[superman61]

Would this be the proper place to talk Water Polo for 2010 season? If so let me know when we all want to start, I find it enjoyable to see what folks have to say this early and keep it going.

[Moe 00]

Would this be the proper place to talk Water Polo for 2010 season? If so let me know when we all want to start, I find it enjoyable to see what folks have to say this early and keep it going.

Yeah man Moeller water polo is going all the way this year.

[superman61]

Yeah man Moeller water polo is going all the way this year.

If Moeller would like to start a team we would be happy to have them, we are trying to get more schools involved!!:blush:

[thedutchman]

Yeah man Moeller water polo is going all the way this year.

I imagine this is an effort at humor, but superman is right it would be great if Moeller started a team. New Albany started last year and it looks like they'll be back. The rumor was that the Dublin schools might form a club team...which would be great. It would be wonderful if other schools looked into starting programs. I think that this summer there is to be a club team that will practice at Worthington & maybe UA. That could be an opportunity for the expansion of the sport in Central Ohio.

As to who will be good this year, St Francis should be good. Of course, the Worthingtons and UA will be solid. St Charles certainly improved dramatically last year...not sure how much they lost. Mason seems to have a strong program. They definitely have the best pool.

[superman61]

St. Chuck's has improved greatly and you can never look the other way with them. They finished very strong last season and Gear is one of the best coaches in the state. Mason has the best pool for water polo for a high school team and Sullivan always seems to bounce that team back into it each season. Milford is down their big man it will be interesting to see how Tameris will adjust the style of play. Princeton just kept getting stronger and faster through last season. Packer has done well with bringing the team together. Francis needs to settle down and play the game, they have a tendency to try and muscle their way though. New Albany improved a lot last season. The boys and coaches seem to be excited and I heard they will be going to the North Regional Championship this season. The Central Ohio teams will be strong again I would actually not be suprised to see 3 of the teams in the final weekend from the Columbus area. UA had a strong bench last season that gained a lot of experince and they did win the State Championship. Kilbourne lost some but the core of the team has remained intact and have another season under their belt, they finished strong last season. Thomas lost some kids but the bench was strong, goalie, sprinter and defence are back. This should be a really good season!

[preeder61]

Thanks for starting the discussion superman, here is a link to the Spring/Summer program open to all at Worthington.

http://www.worthingtonpools.com/water-polo/

[Mr.Taggert]

Will be interesting to see how UA comes back this year after losing some strong players. Worthington should be tough again along with St. Francis. St. Charles only loses three starters and returns 4-5 strong varsity players. They also have an unbeaten JV squad that ran through the Toledo tournament last year and I'm sure those guys are looking to move up. Looks to be a great season.

[superman61]

Found more interesting info for water polo in ohio. Dante Dettamanti
Water Polo Clinic, May 21-23, 2010, Columbus, Ohio @ Swim Inc Aquatic Center, 400 W. Granville Road, Worthington, Ohio 43085. For more info contact: Shawn Cline, shawnc@columbus.rr.com, Joan Gould, Water Polo Academy, 317.925.2039.
Dante Dettamanti:
• Head Coach (ret) Stanford University
• Record setting 600 + NCAA wins
• Former Asst USA National Team Coach
• 10 x NCAA Coach of the Year
• 8 NCAA Titles
• Record .800 winning percentage at Stanford
This is pretty exciting stuff a clinic right in Ohio. Looks like prices are reasonable also: High School Coach $125, Refs $100, College Club coaches and players $100, High School players $35, NCAA players $35, NCAA Coaches are FREE. Check it out could be good.

[preeder61]

Will be interesting to see how UA comes back this year after losing some strong players. Worthington should be tough again along with St. Francis. St. Charles only loses three starters and returns 4-5 strong varsity players. They also have an unbeaten JV squad that ran through the Toledo tournament last year and I'm sure those guys are looking to move up. Looks to be a great season.

With St. Francis' great performance during the swim season, they will be very fast in transition. If I remember correctly, one of their fastest swimmers, Rowan Williams, is their goalie! The St. Charles guys, the Thomas Worthington and Worthington Kilbourne guys are practicing together right now, which should make for some fun match ups in season.

[superman61]

With St. Francis' great performance during the swim season, they will be very fast in transition. If I remember correctly, one of their fastest swimmers, Rowan Williams, is their goalie! The St. Charles guys, the Thomas Worthington and Worthington Kilbourne guys are practicing together right now, which should make for some fun match ups in season.

With all these facts this should make the North Regional one of the toughest tournaments ever. The teams that make it out could end up facing each other for the last game of season. Could be really exciting as we get down to the end and how the coaches see the seating for the regional. Last season the North regional was an extremely tough tournament. This season looks to be building to an even tougher one. Can't wait to see what happens.

[superman61]

2010 Ohio Tournament Schedule
Aug.
7-8 Officials & Coaches clinic @ Worthington
20-21 UA Girl’s V tournament, Napoleon Boy’s V/JV tournament
27-28 Napoleon Girl’s V/JV tournament
28-29 Milford Boy’s V/JV tournament
Sept.
3-4 Mason Boy’s V/JV tournament
10-11 St. Francis boy’s V tournament
10-11 UA girl’s JV tournament
11-12 Girl’s Ohio Cup tournament @ Worthington
17-18 Milford girl’s V/JV tournament
18-19 Boy’s Ohio Cup tournament @ Worthington
24-25 Princeton boy’s V tournament
Oct.
1-2 Milford girl’s V tournament
2-3 Milford boy’s V tournament
8-9 Sylvania girl’s V/JV tournament, St. Francis boy’s JV tournament
15-16 Regional Tournaments: North @ Worthington, South @ Mason
22-23 State Tournaments @ Mason

It's all just around the corner!!

[swimfan]

Any idea what teams will be at the Ohio Cup this year. Are the Ann Arbor teams coming?

[superman61]

Any idea what teams will be at the Ohio Cup this year. Are the Ann Arbor teams coming?

They have been invited I'm sure, as I understand it all teams that want to participate are invited to do so. Guess we will have to wait until Worthington puts out the list of teams coming.

[polofan2]

I think the North Region will be very tough this year. A lot of teams lost people, but have solid bench players ready to step up. Every team can play the game very well, creating many entertaining games. I think the teams stack up as follows:

(Or at least the teams I can think of)

1. Thomas Worthington
2. St. Charles
3. St. Francis
4. Worthington Kilbourne
5. Sylvania
6. Napoleon
7. New Albany

Any thoughts? Any teams I missed? How is the South looking for this year?

[superman61]

Looks to be correct for the north but Napoleon has their old coach back, they should play better this season and move ahead of Sylvania. The south is completely up in the air as I see it:

1. Milford
2. UA
3. YOU PICK IT FROM THERE

[thedutchman]

North:

1. Thomas Worthington
2. St. Francis
3. St. Charles

South:

1. Milford
2. Sycamore
3. UA

[superman61]

I would not write off UA so quickly, I understand that three returning players are training all summer with a with a very good Michigan club or ODP and last season's bench for them did a pretty good job. There is a possibility that they could move back to the top of the south and do very well. St. Chuck's did great last year and has not lost a whole lot. I think they would have made it to the last weekend if they had not had to come back so quickly after an OT loss and play a more rested Francis team. What makes Sycamore look so much better to you this season, didn't they lose most of their top guys to graduation? Just asking because they feel off my radar last season.

[thedutchman]

What makes Sycamore look so much better to you this season, didn't they lose most of their top guys to graduation? Just asking because they feel off my radar last season.

No insight. Just based on talk. May be wishful optimism. Looking forward to the season.

[swimfan]

I would not write off UA so quickly, I understand that three returning players are training all summer with a with a very good Michigan club or ODP and last season's bench for them did a pretty good job. There is a possibility that they could move back to the top of the south and do very well. St. Chuck's did great last year and has not lost a whole lot. I think they would have made it to the last weekend if they had not had to come back so quickly after an OT loss and play a more rested Francis team. What makes Sycamore look so much better to you this season, didn't they lose most of their top guys to graduation? Just asking because they feel off my radar last season.

Yea that's what I heard about SC. They played Thomas and lost in OT. The next game StF rested their starters and beat Kilbourne. Then a rested StF beat a tired SC in the consolation game.

[preeder61]

I agree with Dutchman's North, St. Francis is very fast and has a lot of guys back. The south is very up in the air. Milford lost a few big seniors and Sycamore is fast, but UA always finds a way. However, UA is relying on an inexperienced goalie and lost 150+ goals with graduating seniors. The Rabe brothers will come in looking to fill those roles.

TW has the most solid goalie and defense, but scoring is going to have to step up.

[swimfan]

Hey, there's a rumor that Dublin is starting a team this year. Anyone know if that's true?

[polofan2]

I heard that St. X is also starting a team. Any truth to the rumors?

[ohiocuse]

we are beginning in dublin 2 tournaments for boys and girls and a few scrimmages, have about 30 kids overall playing looking forward to it, i have heard also that mike jones is getting st x going although haven't heard for sure

[preeder61]

The Ohio Cup would welcome new teams from Dublin, St. X or others looking for a well run tournament. Coaches, contact Boys Tournament Coordinator: Jon Wylly (jwylly@columbus.rr.com) for tournament information.

http://twwaterpolo.com/?page_id=1059

[superman61]

Truly new teams makes it even more exciting to be involved. This can really start to get fun!:Party:

[superman61]

The Ohio Cup would welcome new teams from Dublin, St. X or others looking for a well run tournament. Coaches, contact Boys Tournament Coordinator: Jon Wylly (jwylly@columbus.rr.com) for tournament information.

http://twwaterpolo.com/?page_id=1059

Heard through the grapevine that there may be a couple of teams joining the Ohio Cup from the Chicago area this year. NICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[yetiinaspeedo5]

Any thoughts on a most dominant player now that Matoulis has graduated?

[superman61]

Any thoughts on a most dominant player now that Matoulis has graduated?

Yet to be determined!!!!!!!!!:thumb:

[preeder61]

Here are the All-Ohio Selections from 2009 who are still in HS

ORION SWANSON , ST. CHARLES
KEELER CALLAHAN, KILBOURNE
BRENNEN CLINE, THOMAS
ADAM RABE, UPPER ARLINGTON
SALIM CHOUEIKI, THOMAS (goalie)
SAM REEDER, THOMAS
JAKE WOOD, KILBOURNE (goalie)
ROWAN WILLIAMS, ST. FRANCIS (goalie)

[thedutchman]

Mid-August...games and tournaments should be starting soon. Are any schedules posted for any of the teams? Has anyone played yet?

[superman61]

Napoleon has a boy's tournament this weekend!

[yetiinaspeedo5]

I saw St. Charles did pretty well this past weekend beat Milford by like 6 goals and their only loss was by a few goals to Huron

[preeder61]

St. Charles played in a tournament in Michigan last weekend, went 3-1, thumping Milford (anyone see this game to understand a 7-1 game) and only lost to Huron.

Napoleon this weekend, most Ohio teams represented except UA and St. Francis.

Napoleon Boys Tournament Aug 20-21

Thomas Worthington vs. Mason
Worthington Kilbourne vs.Mason
St. Charles vs. Milford
Sylvania vs. Milford
Napoleon vs. Sycamore
Sylvania vs. Princeton
Napoleon vs. Princeton
Thomas Worthington vs. Sycamore
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Milford
Thomas Worthington vs. Princeton
St. Charles vs. GlenOak
St. Charles vs. Sycamore
Sylvania vs. GlenOak
St. Charles vs. Mason
Napoleon vs. GlenOak
Napoleon vs. Mason
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Princeton
Thomas Worthington vs. Milford
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Napoleon

[superman61]

I saw St. Charles did pretty well this past weekend beat Milford by like 6 goals and their only loss was by a few goals to Huron

I did hear that St. Chuck's played well in last week's tournament but that Milford was missing 2 starters. The 2 boys did not have all there paper work in and current with the school. More Ohio teams will get a good look at each other this weekend in Napoleon. But remember this is just the start of the season, the coaches and teams will make adjustments through the season. The good teams will not be playing the same game then that they are now, new players will aquire the needed skills and the new upper classmen figure out they need to step up and take on new roles. There is some sort of tournament every weekend through the end of season. Hope everyone plays to there potential, nobody gets injured and Ohio has one of the best Water Polo seasons ever.

[swimfan]

Here are some articles about UA, Thomas Worthington & Kilbourne

http://www.thisweeknews.com/live/content/upperarlington/stories/2010/08/18/sports/bears-boys-girls-teams-retain-high-expectations.html?sid=104

http://www.thisweeknews.com/live/content/worthington/stories/2010/08/18/sports/thomas-girls-set-sights-on-defending-state-title.html?sid=104

[bhs warrior]

At Napoleon st. charles 11 milford 5

[thedutchman]

At Napoleon st. charles 11 milford 5

bhs - any other scores from Napoleon?

I did hear that St. Chuck's played well in last week's tournament but that Milford was missing 2 starters.

Did Milford have all their starters?

[polofan2]

How did the Napoleon tournament go? Any upsets? Any teams surprise people? I heard Princeton lost a lot of people and weren't as good, but others told me they thought it was just their JV team.

[bhs warrior]

Yes, Milford had all there starters
St Charles 8 Mason 4 in outdoor pool
St. charles also beat Sycamore, do not know the final score
Princeton team was listed as varsity squad

[bhs warrior]

St. Charles varsity went 4-0 and are now 7-1, they vist tw aug 25.
JV went 2-0, also saw a lot of playing time in the varsity games

[thedutchman]

Napoleon Boys Tournament Aug 20-21

Thomas Worthington vs. Mason
Worthington Kilbourne vs.Mason
St. Charles vs. Milford
Sylvania vs. Milford
Napoleon vs. Sycamore
Sylvania vs. Princeton
Napoleon vs. Princeton
Thomas Worthington vs. Sycamore
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Milford
Thomas Worthington vs. Princeton
St. Charles vs. GlenOak
St. Charles vs. Sycamore
Sylvania vs. GlenOak
St. Charles vs. Mason
Napoleon vs. GlenOak
Napoleon vs. Mason
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Princeton
Thomas Worthington vs. Milford
Worthington Kilbourne vs. Napoleon

Anyone have all the results to post?

[bhs warrior]

no results were posted at the pool

[preeder61]

TW 10-2 over Mason
TW 11-6 over Sycamore, leading 10-1 at half, JV played the second half
TW 14-0 over Princeton, JV played the second half
TW 6-3 over Milford. Milford seemed to have the entire varsity

St. C over Milford 11-5
St. C over Mason 9-4
St. C over Sycamore 15-4
St. C over Glen Oak 18-4

Wednesday, St. C at TW 4:00 JV, 5:00 Var. Should be a great game. The teams practiced with each other in the spring and summer and the coaches know each other well.

[swimfan]

Any scores for UA this past weekend?

[preeder61]

UA played Groves and Rockford Friday night and I heard they lost both, but no details. Played Okemos on Saturday. Went on to win two in the tournament brackets, went 2-3

[preeder61]

Pioneer Tournament this coming weekend. Here is a link to the schedule. McDowell from PA is coming.

http://www.aapioneerwaterpolo.com/mearlybird10.asp

[superman61]

8/25/2010 St. Chuck's 4 Thomas Worthington 3 in OT. Possibly the best two teams in the state right now. Heck of match best of luck to both teams the rest of the season. Things are going to get interesting.

[thedutchman]

8/25/2010 St. Chuck's 4 Thomas Worthington 3 in OT. Possibly the best two teams in the state right now. Heck of match best of luck to both teams the rest of the season. Things are going to get interesting.

Wow...sounds like quite a game, pretty low scoring. Didn't these teams go to OT last year in the regional final? Wonder how many times they'll play again this season.

[preeder61]

8/25/2010 St. Chuck's 4 Thomas Worthington 3 in OT. Possibly the best two teams in the state right now. Heck of match best of luck to both teams the rest of the season. Things are going to get interesting.

Tough defensive game, lots of kick-out. Two TW starters and one St.C starter on the bench for most of the second half. Not the last of the games between these two teams.

[bigman24]

What do you think about Mason this year? they came out of last weekend 2-2, wins over kilborne and napoleon. loses to Thomas and SC

[GoinDistance]

Mason looks like they will have a shot of getting to States

[GoinDistance]

5 of the 6 south teams were at Napoleon. Based on the scores against TW and SC, Mason and Milford looked to be a little ahead of the other 3. If that holds at least one of them will make it to States.

[swimfan]

Word is that StX has a team.

[bigman24]

I'd say UA is an automatic in for states from the south. Milford and Mason should be the teams to watch, a good battle between them. But I osn't think that either of them is far behind UA. Thoughts?

[polofan2]

Now that the season has started, and teams have played each other, I think the state is falling into place, but we still do have a lot of time to mix it up. I think the rankings in the state are as follows.

1. Upper Arlington
2. St. Charles
3. Thomas Worthington
4. St. Francis
5. Milford
6. Mason
7. Worthington Kilbourne
8. Sylvania
9. Sycamore
10. Princeton
11. Glen Oak
12. Napoleon
13. New Albany

Thoughts? I have not included rumored teams like St. X and Dublin because there is no confirmation on them yet.

[yetiinaspeedo5]

I dont know about UA number 1, they lost a lot of strong talent and definately didnt look their best this weekend but they're still a solid team probably rounding out the top 3 or 4. After last wednesdays game u gotta go 1. ST. Chucks and 2. Thomas Worthington. This weekend Thomas lost their only game of the tournement by only 3 goals to the top team in Michigan, Ann Arbor Huron.

[preeder61]

The Mason tournament is this weekend and Milford will play Thomas, St. Charles and UA in the same day. Mason does not have as tough a schedule, but it will be an interesting early season comparison. Wednesday night TW at UA at 5:00. If TW stays out of kick out trouble it should be a fun state championship rematch.

The Championship game in Pioneer saw TW only down 8-7 within the last two minutes and then the Huron beast dropped two in to seal the game 10-7. Huron's David Hasegan is one of the best players that I have seen. Every set went through him. I think he had 7 goals. I think he also scored 7 in the St. Charles loss to Huron the week before.

[GoinDistance]

Rumor is Thomas beat Pioneer in Ann Arbor while UA lost to Pioneer in this tournament - is that correct? How did St. Francis do? Are complete results posted anywhere?

[preeder61]

Rumor is Thomas beat Pioneer in Ann Arbor while UA lost to Pioneer in this tournament - is that correct? How did St. Francis do? Are complete results posted anywhere?

TW beat Pioneer 3-2 in a tough defensive game in the semi-final match. UA was in the same bracket as Pioneer and Seaholm and Pioneer won the bracket. St. Francis was in the bracket with Rockford who won the bracket and then Rockford lost in the semi to Huron by 1. McDowell did not show, so Pioneer B replaced them.

[superman61]

Mason tournament has been moved to Upper Arlington this weekend. Mason's pool is having some trouble and will not be ready to compete in. More when final changes have been made to schedule.

[bigman24]

The Milford tourney was supposed to be at Mason, but both are having pool troubles, so it was cancled. The Mason Invite. is being hosted by UA this weeked due to the same pool troubles. Mason is rumored to play Kilborne, TW, SC and UA

[swimfan]

Now that the season has started, and teams have played each other, I think the state is falling into place, but we still do have a lot of time to mix it up. I think the rankings in the state are as follows.

1. Upper Arlington
2. St. Charles
3. Thomas Worthington
4. St. Francis
5. Milford
6. Mason
7. Worthington Kilbourne
8. Sylvania
9. Sycamore
10. Princeton
11. Glen Oak
12. Napoleon
13. New Albany

Thoughts? I have not included rumored teams like St. X and Dublin because there is no confirmation on them yet.

I think you have to move SC, Thomas & perhaps StF ahead of UA. UA has played just Michigan teams so far. They have won about half their games. Against the Michigan schools, SC & Thomas have only lost to Ann Arbor Huron (ranked No. 1 in Michigan). Not sure what St.F has done up there. But based on the performances to date, it would seem that SC & Thomas rank above UA. And looking at the results of the Thomas / SC game, those teams look very even. It's very early in the season, but so far it is looking like those 2 teams are the dominant force.

[scwat]

It doesn't seem that a lot is known about St Francis except what they did last year. How do their scores against common Michigan opponents stack up? Does anyone know? As far as St Charles and Thomas, they look so close right now, although maybe St Charles has a little more depth. They tend to sub quite a few varsity players, whereas Thomas does not. It will be interesting to see how UA fits into the Central Ohio mix. Friday's match should be meaningful.

[preeder61]

It doesn't seem that a lot is known about St Francis except what they did last year. How do their scores against common Michigan opponents stack up? Does anyone know? As far as St Charles and Thomas, they look so close right now, although maybe St Charles has a little more depth. They tend to sub quite a few varsity players, whereas Thomas does not. It will be interesting to see how UA fits into the Central Ohio mix. Friday's match should be meaningful.

TW at UA tomorrow night (Wednesday)

UA tournament this weekend, but St. C, TW, UA don't play each other.

TW and St. C are both tough defensive teams that don't score a lot and St. C has a lot of guys on varsity when TW goes only one or two off the bench.

[preeder61]

TW over UA 13-6. Up 8-1 at half. UA was missing an injured starter.

[bhs warrior]

If Mason's roster was correct at nap they have 12 sr's and 12 jr's on the varsity squad. Also, how much pool time have they been getting, since thier pool has been down for a while. could mason be a sleeper ? They will have a tough weekend with kilbourne, ua, tw and glen oak. With that many upper classmen they could be a problem team down the road

[superman61]

If Mason's roster was correct at nap they have 12 sr's and 12 jr's on the varsity squad. Also, how much pool time have they been getting, since thier pool has been down for a while. could mason be a sleeper ? They will have a tough weekend with kilbourne, ua, tw and glen oak. With that many upper classmen they could be a problem team down the road

If what you say is true about the "Varsity Squad" and they actually have the game experince, Mason could end up playing very tough. With the South Regional and the State Championship being home tournaments for them they could suprise a whole lot of folks. Let's see how they do this weekend as a start for measure against the rest of the teams. 3 out of their 4 games should be a really good judge of where they stand. Currently it appears to be shaping up as St. Charles and Thomas Worthington on top with the rest wide open. Good luck to everyone this weekend at UA! :thumb:

[thedutchman]

When's the Ohio Cup? Does anyone know what teams are playing in it?

[preeder61]

When's the Ohio Cup? Does anyone know what teams are playing in it?

The Ohio Cup is September 18th and 19th at Thomas Worthington. Thomas, Kilbourne, UA, St. Charles, St. Francis, Milford, Mason, Princeton, Sycamore, Glen Oak, Napoleon, Sylvania and a team from Chicago.

[GoinDistance]

13 teams at the Ohio cup? That sounds like a tough number to bracket. Are there going to be some JV squads to round it out?

[swimfan]

The Ohio Cup is September 18th and 19th at Thomas Worthington. Thomas, Kilbourne, UA, St. Charles, St. Francis, Milford, Mason, Princeton, Sycamore, Glen Oak, Napoleon, Sylvania and a team from Chicago.

Are they going to have a JV tournament like last year? I think less skilled teams like New Albany played in that. Should be a good week end of water polo.

[preeder61]

Are they going to have a JV tournament like last year? I think less skilled teams like New Albany played in that. Should be a good week end of water polo.

I believe that Glen Oak is only playing Saturday. New Albany decided not to come and there might be a JV team to fill in for Glen Oak Sunday. Luckily I am not doing the brackets. McDowell and Michigan's Huron, Pioneer, Groves, Okemos and Rockford were invited as well.

The weekend before (9/11 and 12), will be the Women's Ohio Cup, but there will be a club and college tournament as well with Bowling Green State University, University of Dayton, Notre Dame College, The Ohio State University Men, The Ohio State University Women, Ohio University, Cleveland Water Polo Club, Columbus Water Polo Club and the Ohio Squirrels Water Polo Club. An opportunity to see polo at the next level. All games are at Thomas Worthington High School

[danield9tqh]

A big upset at the UA tournament: Millford beat TW 6-3 I think

[preeder61]

A big upset at the UA tournament: Millford beat TW 6-3 I think

5-3, Milford played a great game, I would not say it was an upset, Milford is a very good team. TW was struggling all day long, also lost to Mason 5-3 in the last game. Offensively out of sync, uninspired. Maybe a let down from the UA win Wed. UA beat Milford in their second game soundly. Milford also had to play St. Charles, but I have not seen that score yet.

Makes for a competitive season where on any given day . . . sure going to make the Ohio Cup in two weeks exciting. Two pools, two days of tournament games.

[superman61]

A big upset at the UA tournament: Millford beat TW 6-3 I think

Yes they did! TW also lost to Mason by 2! Not a good tournament for TW looked pretty flat and not playing usual game. Mason is looking good, their goalie played very well. Last game of the night was a tie between Kilbourne and Mason, very good match. Both of those teams could spoil some teams plans at the end of the season. The North region looks like St. Charles is on top with everyone chasing them. South region looks to be a large knot and will come down to who gets hot and wants it in the end.

[thedutchman]

Scores from the week end:
Boys water polo

Varsity Scores:
Milford 5, Thomas Worthington 3
Mason 5, Thomas Worthington 3
Thomas Worthington 10, Princeton 5
Upper Arlington 18, Mason 7
Upper Arlington 8, Milford 3
Upper Arlington 10, Sycamore 4
Worthington Kilbourne 10, Sycamore 9
Worthington Kilbourne 16, Glen Oak 3
Worthington Kilbourne 10, Mason 10
Mason 18, Glen Oak 3
Princeton 10, Glen Oak 7
St Charles 14, Princeton 2
St Charles 15, Sycamore 4
St Charles 13, Milford 4

JV Scores:
Upper Arlington 19, Mason 5
Upper Arlington 17, Sycamore 2
Worthington 9, Mason 5
Milford 7, Worthington 5
St Charles 20, Princeton 2
St Charles 11, Milford 9

[scwat]

St Francis still seems to be the one unknown in the North. They may actually be the team to beat, but they're early season results are tough to come by. There seems to be at least some degree of parity in the rest of the state. Definitely a surprise to me about the Cincinnati teams knocking off Thomas. I wouldn't have predicted it after seeing them play so well early. Next week's Toledo tournament should be interesting.

[bigman24]

don't know about you guys, but after there games against TW I can't wait to see Mason and Milford play. They may be the two teems battling it out for that second souther spot in states

[bhs warrior]

-St Francis still seems to be the one unknown in the North. They may actually be the team to beat, but they're early season results are tough to come by. There seems to be at least some degree of parity in the rest of the state. Definitely a surprise to me about the Cincinnati teams knocking off Thomas. I wouldn't have predicted it after seeing them play so well early. Next week's Toledo tournament should be interesting.

Found a little info on tsf looks like they lost at least two games at early bird pioneer invite - no details. lost to rockford mi 9-3, played huron 8/25 can not find a score, on 9/2 lost to pioneer mi 8-7. it looks like they are 0-4. This weekend they should play tw and sc. we should also see the first rematch between tw and sc. should be another great weekend of water polo.

[swimfan]

Scores from the week end:
Boys water polo

Varsity Scores:
Milford 5, Thomas Worthington 3
Mason 5, Thomas Worthington 3
Thomas Worthington 10, Princeton 5
Upper Arlington 18, Mason 7
Upper Arlington 8, Milford 3
Upper Arlington 10, Sycamore 4
Worthington Kilbourne 10, Sycamore 9
Worthington Kilbourne 16, Glen Oak 3
Worthington Kilbourne 10, Mason 10
Mason 18, Glen Oak 3
Princeton 10, Glen Oak 7
St Charles 14, Princeton 2
St Charles 15, Sycamore 4
St Charles 13, Milford 4

JV Scores:
Upper Arlington 19, Mason 5
Upper Arlington 17, Sycamore 2
Worthington 9, Mason 5
Milford 7, Worthington 5
St Charles 20, Princeton 2
St Charles 11, Milford 9

Looks like UA & SC were the dominant teams this week end. Winning margins are impressive. To bad they didn't play each other. Kilbourne played well. TW seems to have struggled. Were they missing anyone? Milford appears to have had the toughest schedule having to play UA, SC & TW. Going 1-2 is not bad. I don't know the order of play, but if they played TW first that may have worn them out for UA & SC. Although it's early in the season, looks like a number of teams are capable of winning the state. For now it looks like UA & SC rank at the top of the heap. Ohio Cup should be interesting as all these teams will be there.

[preeder61]

Looks like UA & SC were the dominant teams this week end. Winning margins are impressive. To bad they didn't play each other. Kilbourne played well. TW seems to have struggled. Were they missing anyone? Milford appears to have had the toughest schedule having to play UA, SC & TW. Going 1-2 is not bad. I don't know the order of play, but if they played TW first that may have worn them out for UA & SC. Although it's early in the season, looks like a number of teams are capable of winning the state. For now it looks like UA & SC rank at the top of the heap. Ohio Cup should be interesting as all these teams will be there.

Milford played TW first, UA second, two games later and St. Charles last, late in the day. No doubt TW struggled, but coming off of a big win on Wednesday over UA, their confidence was a little too high. TW for sure had an off day. It happens in a 30 game season. SC has about 30 guys to rotate in, so their high scores indicate lots of subs scoring. They are playing really well, but confidence in a HS team is hard to control and it is still early.

[bhs warrior]

9/8/10 Kilbourne and sc at worthington
jv 4pm
"V" 5pm

[ImPartial]

At Napoleon, TW outscored Milford/Mason 16-5. Then they beat UA 13-6.

A few days later TW loses to Milford/Mason 6-10. Either TW was missing some key players, sent out their JV team, or has lost some serious mojo. Can anyone from TW explain what happened last weekend?

[jb123]

-

Found a little info on tsf looks like they lost at least two games at early bird pioneer invite - no details. lost to rockford mi 9-3, played huron 8/25 can not find a score, on 9/2 lost to pioneer mi 8-7. it looks like they are 0-4. This weekend they should play tw and sc. we should also see the first rematch between tw and sc. should be another great weekend of water polo.


Toledo went 2-2 (I think) at Pioneer, losing to Rockford and Groves, beating Pioneer 'B' and Dexter. The Huron game was canceled on 8/25. This weekend they should get some good Ohio opponents at their home tournament. They open with Mason and Kilbourne in bracket play.

[preeder61]

At Napoleon, TW outscored Milford/Mason 16-5. Then they beat UA 13-6.

A few days later TW loses to Milford/Mason 6-10. Either TW was missing some key players, sent out their JV team, or has lost some serious mojo. Can anyone from TW explain what happened last weekend?

Single day (hopefully) loss of Mojo. Everyone was there, just asleep in the Milford game and totally bummed for Mason. Riding high on confidence and just needed some reality. Defensively right on still, just could not get the ball moving at all offensively and shot all over the place except in between the pipes.

[bhs warrior]

sc 10 kilbourne 5, after 3 periods 5-5, Kilbourne gave sc a real run for it

[preeder61]

Results from Toledo this weekend might be a little off, at least 5 guys from Columbus schools are taking the ACT Saturday morning and will be missing at least the games before 3.

[GoinDistance]

Toledo St. Francis Invitational (from the Dispatch)

Thomas Worthington 16, Sylvania 10
Milford 7, Thomas Worthington 5
Thomas Worthington 9, Cincinnati Sycamore 3
Thomas Worthington 15, Mason 2
St. Charles 14, Napoleon 1
St. Charles 7, Sycamore 5
St. Charles 12, Toledo St. Francis 2
Final: St. Charles 5, Milford 3, OT

[thedutchman]

Results from Toledo this weekend might be a little off, at least 5 guys from Columbus schools are taking the ACT Saturday morning and will be missing at least the games before 3.

Toledo St. Francis Invitational (from the Dispatch)

Thomas Worthington 16, Sylvania 10
Milford 7, Thomas Worthington 5
Thomas Worthington 9, Cincinnati Sycamore 3
Thomas Worthington 15, Mason 2
St. Charles 14, Napoleon 1
St. Charles 7, Sycamore 5
St. Charles 12, Toledo St. Francis 2
Final: St. Charles 5, Milford 3, OT

Presumably from these results, St Charles was at full strength. How about Thomas?

[bhs warrior]

Presumably from these results, St Charles was at full strength. How about Thomas?

St Charles down one starter all weekend. Swanson was not there.

[GoinDistance]

Isn't Swanson St. Charles' top player? I thought he was the only underclassman to make 1st team All-Ohio last year. That sounds like a significant loss.

[danield9tqh]

Presumably from these results, St Charles was at full strength. How about Thomas?

Thomas was missing Sam Reeder (starter) for their games against Millford and Sycamore.

[ohiocuse]

sc was also missing another player caleb jack, might be there goalie not sure though

[preeder61]

Ohio Cup this coming weekend. Three pools all running games Saturday and Sunday at Thomas Worthington High School. Games start at 9:00 a.m.,

[swimfan]

St Charles down one starter all weekend. Swanson was not there.

Isn't Swanson St. Charles' top player? I thought he was the only underclassman to make 1st team All-Ohio last year. That sounds like a significant loss.

Makes their performance even more impressive. Looks like they will be the team to beat at the Ohio Cup.

[thedutchman]

Here's a ranking of the teams at this point in the season:

1. St Charles
2. Upper Arlington
3. Milford
4. Thomas Worthington
5. St Francis
6. Kilbourne
7. Mason
8. Sycamore
9. Princeton
10. Sylvania
11. Napoleon
12. Glen Oak
13. New Albany (have they played any games?)

Thoughts? And remember there's still alot of season left. At this point St. Charles has beat everyone they have played, although Milford took them to overtime this week in Toledo and Thomas lost to them in overtime a couple of weeks ago. Thomas, Milford and UA seem to beat each other and are very close. Similarly Kilbourne and Mason are very close. Last year, UA looked invincible at this point but Thomas gave them all they could handle in the state title game. It's looking like it will be a strong tournament at the end of the season.

[jb123]

Princeton beat Sycamore in a dual match a few weeks ago.

[superman61]

So let's look at it as North and South Regional Tournaments if there was a vote today on standings! By the way has UA beat Milford or Thomas this season?
North:
St. Charles
Thomas
St. Francis
Kilbourne
Napoleon
Sylvainia
New Albany

South:
Milford
Upper Arlington
Mason
Princeton
Sycamore
Glen Oak

Life as I see it. Call me wrong if you want, still gotta play the games. By the way can someone explain to me why "Canton Glen Oak" is in the South region. If you put the dividing line through Columbus, just above UA and split the State Glen Oak is North and St. Charles is South. Just food for thought!

[preeder61]

By the way has UA beat Milford or Thomas this season?


UA beat Milford in their one meeting at the UA tournament just a game after Milford beat Thomas in a close game. So, in a 7 day span, Thomas beat Milford (in Napoleon), Thomas beat UA (at UA dual), Milford beat Thomas and UA beat Milford (both at the UA Tournament). It is all up for grabs.

[danield9tqh]

sc was also missing another player caleb jack, might be there goalie not sure though

Caleb Jack is a varsity sub for SC.

[GoinDistance]

Is the Ohio Cup schedule posted anywhere?

[ImPartial]

North:
1. St Charles
2. TW
3. St Francis

South:
1. UA
2. Milford
3. Mason

Has anyone in Ohio beat St Charles yet this season? TW shows flashes of being a very good team (beating UA), then flashes of weakness (losing to Milford, Mason). St Francis went 1-3 this weekend, beating Kilbourne, then losing to Mason, StC, and Milford.

UA beat Milford and Mason so far, so they are obviously at the top of the South. Milford has been weak early, but has beaten TW in their last two meetings. Mason has been average, sometimes better, such as their victories over TW and St Francis.

Trying to put them all together gives something like this:

St Charles
UA
Milford
Mason
St Francis

Where does TW fit? Good question. At times, they are a #2 team. Other times, they are a #5 team.

[preeder61]

Is the Ohio Cup schedule posted anywhere?

Round one:

Group A: St. C, Sycamore, Chicago Park District
Group B: Kilbourne, Princeton, Slyvania
Group C: Thomas, Milford, Napoleon
Group D: UA, Mason, St. Francis

Round two:
Winner of A vs. B, and winner of C vs. D, winner of each goes to Semi's
Championships on Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

[preeder61]

Where does TW fit? Good question. At times, they are a #2 team. Other times, they are a #5 team.

I think it is even more interesting and complicated. TW's loses to Mason and Milford at UA's Tournament were clearly a bad day, take the loss. The loss to Milford last weekend was while missing their leading scorer. TW came back to pound Mason with a full team, 15-2. On the other hand, UA only played well at their own tournament, but lost games in Michigan to teams that TW beat and TW went on to the final game against Huron and lost a close one (the only team to beat St. Charles). Head to head, UA lost to TW 13-6.

No question that is has become competitive and this weekend should match them all, TW and Milford play in the first game, the winner (assuming they can also beat Napoleon) plays the winner of the UA/St. Francis group. St. Charles plays an unknown in the club team from Chicago. Might be the dark horse, who would travel 6 hours with a lousy club team? They might spank everyone.

[scwat]

It has been an interesting first half to say the least. Another thing to watch from here on out is coaching adjustments. Last year, UA pretty much dominated the Ohio season but ended up barely squeaking out the state title. Not only that, but their games against several opponents got closer and closer as the year progressed. This I believe is coaches and players making adjustments and finding out the weak spots of the best first-half teams.

St Charles has probably distinguished itself as the best first half team this year. They have had very good goalie play, a couple of star scorers and a great deal of help off the bench. This could turn out to be a winning formula. However, a team they have handled pretty easily all year, changed up its defense a bit this weekend and took them to overtime (albeit without their best player).

One thing about Thomas Worthington is that they are a very good defensive team and have several physically strong players (and a good goalie). That should keep them in most games. So far though, it seems that they are better in a one game or possibly two game format. In a tournament scenerio, I think their lack of depth shows a bit. It is extremely strenuous for seven or eight players to log the majority of time in 4 or 5 games over two days. However, I would still argue that they are the number 2 right now, considering their convincing win against Arlington and Milford's inconsistency.

As someone said earlier, however, only playing the games will decide. With the winner take all tournament format, it is not always the best team that will capture the titles, only the best on any given day.

[GoinDistance]

If Thomas' biggest weakness is lack of depth they could do very well at States where they only play one game a day. (If they get through regionals of course.) Even if they don't do as well at Ohio cup or other tournaments.

[danield9tqh]

The club team from Chicago might be the dark horse, who would travel 6 hours with a lousy club team? They might spank everyone.
I think it would be really disappointing if Chicago beat everyone in the Ohio Cup. It would be hard to really compare Ohio teams with only how many points they lost to another team by.

[preeder61]

http://chicagopressrelease.com/press-releases/chicago-water-polo-team-heads-to-junior-olympic-championships

The Chicago Park District Water Polo Club was formed in the fall of 2001 to give youth an opportunity to participate in the sport and to expand the program citywide. Youth compete in a variety of levels and age divisions, including 12 and under coed, 14 and under coed and 18 and under girls. The program has grown from 33 youth in the summer of 2005 to more than 150 youth, teens and adults this summer.

[bhs warrior]

I think it would be really disappointing if Chicago beat everyone in the Ohio Cup. It would be hard to really compare Ohio teams with only how many points they lost to another team by.

Chicago park district pulls players from what appears to be 5 city pools. They have a good 14 and under program. They play during the summer and are out of season right now. Also i can find no information about any 18 and under mens program. however they do have high school and above practice times in thier summer programs. So, they do appear to be an unkown. But i think SC will be ready and it will be nice to play someone new.

[swimfan]

Is the Ohio Cup game schedule posted somewhere?

[scwat]

I definitely think it is great to get some outside competition (Chicago) for the Ohio Cup. The only real way to grow Ohio water polo is to draw attention and to make the competitions interesting. Let's face it, most Ohio high school teams play each other several times before the season is over. Bringing teams in from the outside or playing them elsewhere makes it much more challenging and should step up the play of our Ohio teams. If an Ohio team doesn't win the Ohio cup, it may be disappointing, but it will ultimately be a good thing for HS water polo. Congrats to Worthington for extending the invitations far and wide.

[jb123]

The Ohio Cup has a decent history of having out of state teams participate. For several years, the Ohio Cup was 16 teams, with 5-6 teams from either Michigan or Pennsylvania. Last year there were no teams from outside of Ohio, and this year there is only one. I agree that it is good for our Ohio teams to face outside competition, but most of our outside competition has decided that coming into Ohio does not really help them be competitive in their own home states. Plus, why travel to Worthington to play in a small pool, when almost every polo pool in MI is 50m?

[preeder61]

I agree that it is good for our Ohio teams to face outside competition, but most of our outside competition has decided that coming into Ohio does not really help them be competitive in their own home states. Plus, why travel to Worthington to play in a small pool, when almost every polo pool in MI is 50m?

Both St. Charles and TW gave the Michigan State Champ Huron a tough game this year, so the gap is narrowing. I still like the idea of three games running simultaneously at the same facility, makes for an exciting environment and an intense atmosphere. If the girl's final last weekend is any indication of the level of noise, the boys final will blow the roof off.

[rjones]

Look for the Ohio Cup to start UA on the road to repeat as state champ.
http://www.thisweeknews.com/live/content/upperarlington/stories/2010/09/15/sports/boys-team-is-eager-for-ohio-cup.html?sid=104

Yesterday's results:
UA 12, Kilbourne 4

[preeder61]

Look for the Ohio Cup to start UA on the road to repeat as state champ.

It is good to see you're back Mr. Jones, but that is going to be a bumpy road if St. C, Milford and TW have anything to say. UA played really well at home during their own tournament, so they can be competitive, but those 3 games (and the TW and Kilbourne matches) are the only Ohio teams played this season. 4 of their 5 Michigan losses were to teams that St. C and TW beat.

[bigman24]

Last night, Mason 11, Princeton 3

[bhs warrior]

[QUOTE=preeder61;4206141]It is good to see you're back Mr. Jones, but that is going to be a bumpy road if St. C, Milford and TW have anything to say. UA played really well at home during their own tournament, so they can be competitive, but those 3 games (and the TW and Kilbourne matches) are the only Ohio teams played this season. 4 of their 5 Michigan losses were to teams that St. C and TW beat.[/QUOTE

UA may not make it out of its group - Mason then St Francis
If they do TW or Milford waiting. could be a long weekend for the golden Bears

[swimfan]

Look for the Ohio Cup to start UA on the road to repeat as state champ.

It is good to see you're back Mr. Jones, but that is going to be a bumpy road if St. C, Milford and TW have anything to say. UA played really well at home during their own tournament, so they can be competitive, but those 3 games (and the TW and Kilbourne matches) are the only Ohio teams played this season. 4 of their 5 Michigan losses were to teams that St. C and TW beat.

Well said preeder. Based on the season thus far, UA looks to be a longshot to even make it to the Ohio Cup finals. To get out of their group they must beat StF who will out swim them. Then they will have to go through either TW (a team that beat them decisively) or Milford (a team that has been coming on strong lately). And assuming they do that they will have to face SC (the best team so far this season) or a Chicago club team who would have gotten there by beating SC. Just don't see UA winning the Ohio Cup much less repeating as state champ. Sorry Mr. Jones but this doesn't look like the year of the Golden Bear.

[GoinDistance]

The seeding (or lack of seeding) at the Ohio cup seems strange. 3 of the top 6 teams in the state in group D, none in group B?? Then the out of state (probably elite) team and the currently best team in the state in the same group? Don't they try and level things so the top teams will play each other in the semi's and finals?

[jb123]

Trust me, many coaches have noticed the discrepancy in the seeding. Not too many happy teams in bracket D. I wonder which team made the brackets???

[preeder61]

The seeding (or lack of seeding) at the Ohio cup seems strange. 3 of the top 6 teams in the state in group D, none in group B?? Then the out of state (probably elite) team and the currently best team in the state in the same group? Don't they try and level things so the top teams will play each other in the semi's and finals?

Very strange indeed, but don't look at TW, we did not seed it. Hint, look to group B.

St. Charles vs. Sycamore start off the day tomorrow morning at 9. TW vs. Milford at 10, UA vs. Mason also at 10. St. C vs. Chicago at noon, UA vs. St. Francis at 1. Games run until 5 on Saturday.

[superman61]

The seeding (or lack of seeding) at the Ohio cup seems strange. 3 of the top 6 teams in the state in group D, none in group B?? Then the out of state (probably elite) team and the currently best team in the state in the same group? Don't they try and level things so the top teams will play each other in the semi's and finals?

I understand it was a blind draw to try to make it fair, the chips fell where the did.

[jb123]

Couldn't have gone better for the host team.

Why not seed the teams from 1 to 12, and set up fair brackets for competitive play?

[preeder61]

St Charles 5 - Sycamore 2
Kilbourne 7 - Princeton 1
Thomas Worthington 5 - Milford 1
Upper Arlington 10 - Mason 6
Kilbourne 8 - Sylvania 6
St. C 9 - Chicago Park District 8 OT
UA 5 - St. Francis 3
TW 9 - Napoleon 1
Chicago 7 - Sycamore 1
Sylvania 5 - Princeton 4
Milford 10 - Napoleon 8
St. Francis 9 - Mason 8 OT
______________________________

Sunday Quarter finals

St. C vs. Sylvania, 11:00
TW vs. St. Francis, 11:00
Chicago vs. Kilbourne, noon
Milford vs. UA, noon

[scwat]

I was very impressed with the Chicago team. Plus, I think they may have an easier route to the finals than St Charles, despite losing to them. I don't see anyone on their side of the bracket beating them. UA won twice but was pretty sloppy. The other side will most likely be either St Charles or Thomas, who have already played an overtime game. Of course anything could happen, but that is the way it looks to me right now.

[preeder61]

Mason 10, Napoleon 5
Sycamore 3, Princeton 1
St. Charles 20, Sylvania 4
St. Francis 3, Thomas Worthington 3
Chicago Park District 14, Kilbourne 6
Upper Arlington 7, Milford 4
Princeton 6, Napoleon 4
Sycamore 6, Mason 4
TW 8, Sylvania 2
Milford 12, Kilbourne 9

Semi Finals
St. Charles 6, St. Francis 2
Chicago 11, UA 8

Championship
Chicago 12, St. Charles 9

[scwat]

I may have overlooked St Francis in the quarterfinals in my earlier post. Their team seems to be coming on. Chicago was the winner, but not untested. Other than that, any surprises or thoughts on the weekend's games?

[rjones]

The Chicago team was very good. Heard that they are an all star team. Of the rest it looked like St Charles & UA were the dominant teams. Unfortunately the brackets didn't set up for UA & St Charles to play each other. Will be an interesting match as UA continues to get better. St Charles is playing well but they won't be able to swim with UA. They had some difficulties with St Francis another strong swimming team. Unlike St Francis UA has both the swimming and the water polo technique. Based on this week end it looks like UA & St Charles are the teams to beat in Ohio.

[preeder61]

St Charles is playing well but they won't be able to swim with UA. They had some difficulties with St Francis another strong swimming team. Unlike St Francis UA has both the swimming and the water polo technique.

Did you watch the championship game? St. Charles can swim every bit as fast as UA. Don't get me wrong, UA played really well, but St. Charles has a quick team. St. C's Max Harath broke and scored on CPD at least twice with lightning breaks. St. Charles was up 5-2 in the final game, it was simply CPD's cool headed play behind two stellar players that brought them back and into a winning position.

I also agree that St. Francis is much better than people game them credit for. They are very similar to TW. Tenacious defense, good goalie, good breaking team, but inconsistent game to game. St. Francis played every game this weekend close.

[ImPartial]

Mason 10, Napoleon 5
Sycamore 3, Princeton 1
St. Charles 20, Sylvania 4
St. Francis 3, Thomas Worthington 3
Chicago Park District 14, Kilbourne 6
Upper Arlington 7, Milford 4
Princeton 6, Napoleon 4
Sycamore 6, Mason 4
TW 8, Sylvania 2
Milford 12, Kilbourne 9

Semi Finals
St. Charles 6, St. Francis 2
Chicago 11, UA 8

Championship
Chicago 12, St. Charles 9

Was the StF/TW game a 3-3 tie? How did they decide who advanced to the next round?

[jb123]

St. Francis beat TW 3-2

[preeder61]

Was the StF/TW game a 3-3 tie? How did they decide who advanced to the next round?

Oops, my mistake, sorry, wishful thinking. St. Francis won 3-2.

The Packer this weekend should put everyone on a collision course. UA vs. Thomas in the first round, the winner having to play either Kilbourne or Napoleon before taking on the St. Charles who only has one game to beat Glen Oak and a second round bye.

[scwat]

I agree with you Preeder that swimming does not seem to be a weakness of St Charles. Although St Francis gave them a good game, I don't think they were necessarily faster. BTW, isn't St Francis fastest swimmer in goal anyway?

That being said, I don't think St Charles is unbeatable. The difference in the Chicago final was, I think cool-headed play. St Charles made some really careless plays against an experienced opponent that took advantage.

I admit I have not seen a great deal of UA games this year. I am not at all counting them out. However, this is not the UA of last year.

I watched the TW and ST Francis game and saw a little offensive hesitancy on the part of the TW players. Confidence lacking perhaps at this point in the season?

One other teams not mentioned often who I think may be better than people realize is Sycamore.

It was interesting in the outside pool that you could hear what the coaches were saying. I must admit it bothers me when coaches seem to blame the referees for their losses. It seems the players begin to focus too much on it also. Don't get me wrong, there are probably times when the referees are inconsistent and make bad calls. I am not entirely clear of all of the rules, myself. However, it just seems that during a game the coaches should keep a clear head and adjust to the calls that are or are not being made. Am I right that the Chicago coach was really a model in this regard?

I would like to register the same complaint about the parents. I get tired of hearing their whining about officiating after losing. (I am not mentioning any specific teams here on purpose, but some teams seem to be consistent in this practice). Any thoughts?

[scwat]

One more question. Does anyone know who made the all Ohio Cup team or if it was chosen this year?

[bhs warrior]

Did you watch the championship game? St. Charles can swim every bit as fast as UA. Don't get me wrong, UA played really well, but St. Charles has a quick team. St. C's Max Harath broke and scored on CPD at least twice with lightning breaks. St. Charles was up 5-2 in the final game, it was simply CPD's cool headed play behind two stellar players that brought them back and into a winning position.

I also agree that St. Francis is much better than people game them credit for. They are very similar to TW. Tenacious defense, good goalie, good breaking team, but inconsistent game to game. St. Francis played every game this weekend close.

Lets not overlook the fact that St. Charles is still a new comer to water polo. Is this thier four year as a varsity sport and fifth year overall ? If anything they are the most improved team in the state. Also they have shown they will play anybody tough.

[jb123]

All Tournament Team - Ohio Cup

Goalie - Rowan Williams, Toledo St. Francis
Field - Brennan Cline, Thomas Worthington
Field - Adam Rabe, UA
Field - Orion Swanson, St. Charles
Field - Brian Muff, Mason
Field - Mark Alvarado, CPD
Field - Jamie Juarez, CPD

My thoughts....only 3, maybe 4 of these players deserve to be on the list. Unfortunately, most coaches turn in their votes without watching most of the games that their team is not playing in.

[superman61]

All Tournament Team - Ohio Cup

Goalie - Rowan Williams, Toledo St. Francis
Field - Brennan Cline, Thomas Worthington
Field - Adam Rabe, UA
Field - Orion Swanson, St. Charles
Field - Brian Muff, Mason
Field - Mark Alvarado, CPD
Field - Jamie Juarez, CPD

My thoughts....only 3, maybe 4 of these players deserve to be on the list. Unfortunately, most coaches turn in their votes without watching most of the games that their team is not playing in.

Who would you remove and who would you put in? The refs vote too!

[preeder61]

All Tournament Team - Ohio Cup

My thoughts....only 3, maybe 4 of these players deserve to be on the list. Unfortunately, most coaches turn in their votes without watching most of the games that their team is not playing in.

I am glad that I was not the first to question this. I think that only about half of the coaches actually voted. The two CPD players were really fun to watch and I think that everyone who watched their games enjoyed their flowing style of play. Of course I am a TW guy, so I was sorry to see goalie Salim Chouieki overlooked for only allowing 4 goals in 4 games. I also felt that St. C's Harath (mentioned in an earlier post) could have received a spot.

Regarding the respectful coaching and parenting. I agree that the CPD coach was very respectful and his players reflected his attitude. I am guilty of a bad attitude towards one call and was embarrassed by my behavior later, but it is hard to see your boy underwater :( I am still learning as well.

I think that we can not overlook the fact that HS sports are meant to teach sportsmanship, leadership while winning and losing with class. There was a lot of talk in the pool that went beyond acceptable, passions run high, but it is the coaches and parents who have to lead by example.

[GoinDistance]

I watched both the Thomas-St Francis game and the St Charles-St Francis Game. I did not think Williams was the best keeper in the water in either game. The Thomas keeper is superb definsively. The St Charles keeper was the best I saw this weekend at outleting the ball quickly, accurately and to the right spot.

[preeder61]

UA, SC and TW all on the same side of the Packer bracket this weekend. UA vs. TW in the first round at 5:35. Revenge is a great motivator, is UA going to come back hard after the last head to head loss? UA's Coons did not play in the last game. Can anyone in Ohio beat SC?

[superman61]

Very interesting bracket set up for the "Packer"!
Sycamore vs. Princeton game 1
Mason vs. Milford game 2
Thomas vs. UA game 3
Kilbourne vs. Napoleon game 4
Glen Oak vs. St. Chuck's game 5
Winner of game 5 gets a bye after that.

If a team goes into the "Loser's Bracket" after the first round to make it to the Championship game they could play 6 games on Saturday with very little rest and no rest between the last two games of the "Loser's Bracket" and the "Championship Game" Good luck to all involved this one is going to be a tough one.

[thedutchman]

Can anyone in Ohio beat SC?

SC is playing very well right now, but the season is not over. Remember UA looked invincible at this time last year...and did win the state title, but it was hardly a walk over. TW took them to overtime. SC has more depth than any of the other teams and so their players are fresher in the last part of the game and late in these tournaments. But in the state tournament there is only one game each day. That will tend to neutralize SC's depth to a degree. Don't get me wrong, SC is deservedly the top team in the state based on their play so far and has to be considered the favorite to win the state, but it won't be a cakewalk. TW, StF, UA, Milford and maybe one or two others could get hot at tournament time and pull the upset.

[rjones]

UA, SC and TW all on the same side of the Packer bracket this weekend. UA vs. TW in the first round at 5:35. Revenge is a great motivator, is UA going to come back hard after the last head to head loss? UA's Coons did not play in the last game. Can anyone in Ohio beat SC?

I think it's great that UA will get to take on both TW (avenging the earlier loss) and SC (who has never beaten UA). Expect the bears to prevail!

[swimfan]

I think it's great that UA will get to take on both TW (avenging the earlier loss) and SC (who has never beaten UA). Expect the bears to prevail!

Not sure that you will think it's so great after the Packer.

[bigman24]

Mason lost to Milford last night by 3. They play again on Thursday to detirmine 2nd and 3rd seeds at regionals. No matter how t goes down tomorrow, Friday s sure o be a grudge match.

[bhs warrior]

I think it's great that UA will get to take on both TW (avenging the earlier loss) and SC (who has never beaten UA). Expect the bears to prevail!

If UA is real lucky they can play TW and SC twice, Think about it Mr. Jones

[bhs warrior]

Just FYI, St. Charles hosted water polo games tonight.

[thedutchman]

Just FYI, St. Charles hosted water polo games tonight.

From the Dispatch web page:

Boys water polo
St. Charles 22, New Albany 9

[swimfan]

Article about St Charles & Ohio Cup.

http://www.thisweeknews.com/live/content/bexley/stories/2010/09/22/sports/water-polo-team-finishes.html?sid=104

[preeder61]

Article about St Charles & Ohio Cup.

http://www.thisweeknews.com/live/content/bexley/stories/2010/09/22/sports/water-polo-team-finishes.html?sid=104

"they (CPD) are 10 times better than any team we have seen in Michigan or Ohio." Ouch Geoff, 10 times, they only beat UA in the Semi 11-8, I am not sure your math is right, but thanks for the bulletin board quote :)

Great to see SC hosting games now, adds the potential of another local tournament. Can a USA Polo club team for Central Ohio be too far out on the horizon?

[jb123]

Yes, the final score for the CPD - UA game was 11-8, but that game was definitely not as close as the score indicated. The Chicago team cruised during the entire fourth quarter with a very comfortable lead, while UA got 4 goals in the last 3 or 4 minutes of the game.
CPD beats Huron (still undefeated in MI btw), or any other team in MI or OH, including SC, at least 8 out of 10 times.

[danield9tqh]

Yes, the final score for the CPD - UA game was 11-8, but that game was definitely not as close as the score indicated. The Chicago team cruised during the entire fourth quarter with a very comfortable lead, while UA got 4 goals in the last 3 or 4 minutes of the game.
CPD beats Huron (still undefeated in MI btw), or any other team in MI or OH, including SC, at least 8 out of 10 times.

The score after the first quarter is a good indication of how much better CPD was. I think it was CPD-5, UA-1.

[rjones]

Yes, the final score for the CPD - UA game was 11-8, but that game was definitely not as close as the score indicated. The Chicago team cruised during the entire fourth quarter with a very comfortable lead, while UA got 4 goals in the last 3 or 4 minutes of the game.
CPD beats Huron (still undefeated in MI btw), or any other team in MI or OH, including SC, at least 8 out of 10 times.

The score after the first quarter is a good indication of how much better CPD was. I think it was CPD-5, UA-1.

Last time I looked it's a 4 quarter game. Chicago only had 1 or 2 subs so it's not like the scrubs were playing the 4th quarter. And UA had to play them in the small pool. Put them in the big pool and UA's speed would make this a much closer match.

[superman61]

rjones, guess you had to be there or at least pay attention to what was going on. In the fourth the CPD slowed the game down controlled the ball and used the whole 30 seconds. Then they would only score if their coach told them to score otherwise they dumped the ball in the corner and turned it over. The CPD team was put together because their coach wanted to come to Columbus and try to get more folks involved with the USA Water Polo programs and try to see if there was a possible sight for the ODP qualifiers in the near future. He asked the park district if they would let him bring a team, they said yes. Beto put out the word that they were going and asked if anyone was interested in joining him. They boys who showed up are the only ones who were interested in traveling in a van to Columbus to play. I would say after their success and the fact that everyone was nice to them, more teams will follow. It is possible that one or two more teams from the area will come next year. It just ups the level of play and helps the coaches get to know each other and maybe Ohio won't continue to be looked upon as the poor Mid-West area that only thinks they know how to play Water Polo. We could actually start to get some folks to notice our kids and truely get some players on the national level teams in the future.

[scwat]

Yeah, really, what is with that quote? Ten times better? Chicago was good, but not that good. Individually, they were strong, but they didn't flow like a team used to playing with each other. Also, St Charles did beat them once and didn't beat Huron (Michigan). Several teams in Ohio have played St C to close finishes as well. I hope their current Ohio record does not go to their heads. Keep in mind, they were definitely underachievers in last year's state tournament. St Charles will most likely play UA at least once this weekend. I think it is the one Ohio team that hasn't had a chance to knock them off.

Like I said in an earlier post, it is good for Ohio to get some outside involvement whenever possible. More importantly, however, more high schools should consider fielding teams. In that regard, does anyone know what happened to St X s team this year?

[bhs warrior]

I am sure that if you ask geoff he he would say cpd was 10 times better than SC. CPD was able to take any weakness a team had and go to town. Next, I love you UA fans. Lets go back a year at the OHIO CUP FINAL, UA took SC apart period. A lesson SC will not soon forget. As far as their current record going to their heads, do not count on that. I would be more worried about how hard Geoff and SC are working to beome the best team in OCT and beyond.

[yetiinaspeedo5]

I think it's great that UA will get to take on both TW (avenging the earlier loss) and SC (who has never beaten UA). Expect the bears to prevail!

rjones I dont know what you're smoking but it's definately against the ATOD policy.

[preeder61]

TW over UA, 8-4 in the first round in Princeton.

[thedutchman]

TW over UA, 8-4 in the first round in Princeton.

Looks like TW is back on track. Any other results?

[bhs warrior]

SC 16 - 2 over glen oak varsity played 1st quarter

[preeder61]

SC over TW 7-4. TW missing an injured starter and playing their second game of the day while SC was playing their first. SC played really well and TW just could not get their offense going due to good SC defensive pressure.

Milford beat UA Friday night and the beat TW 6-5 two hours after their loss to SC. Making the Southern Regional very interesting.

[thedutchman]

Has any Ohio team beaten St. Charles?

[bhs warrior]

Has any Ohio team beaten St. Charles?

No, Sc went 4-0 at Packer classic

[preeder61]

SC has only been taken into overtime twice by Ohio teams this season.

Where is St. Francis this season? They played their own tournament and the Ohio Cup and those are the only two times that anyone has seen them in Ohio. Are they playing only Michigan tournaments? It is hard to judge how they are playing. We will have to wait until regionals to see them again.

TW has played Milford 6 times already (too many) and we are going back down to their tournament next weekend. Milford played Mason three times in the last 5 days! I am not sure that these 4 game weekends are helping to grow the sport, should this be mixed up some? By the end of the season, most teams will have played over 30 games compared to a 10-12 game football or soccer season. This is a lot of travel and a lot of money for hotels and food.

Thoughts?

[bigman24]

Speaking of the southern region, it will no doubt be interesting. I really think you can't count our Mason. They played Milford 4 time this week and won once, and the three loses weren't blowouts. There were certinly some call that should have gone Mason's way but didn't. The South should be a real bloodbath with Mason, Milford an UA

[swimfan]

SC has only been taken into overtime twice by Ohio teams this season.

Where is St. Francis this season? They played their own tournament and the Ohio Cup and those are the only two times that anyone has seen them in Ohio. Are they playing only Michigan tournaments? It is hard to judge how they are playing. We will have to wait until regionals to see them again.

TW has played Milford 6 times already (too many) and we are going back down to their tournament next weekend. Milford played Mason three times in the last 5 days! I am not sure that these 4 game weekends are helping to grow the sport, should this be mixed up some? By the end of the season, most teams will have played over 30 games compared to a 10-12 game football or soccer season. This is a lot of travel and a lot of money for hotels and food.

Thoughts?

The number of games is probably about right, but there needs to be more variety. Playing a team 6 times seems excessive. Maybe the structure of the brackets at the weekend tournaments could include looking at who has played who in the past. The obvious solution is to bring more teams into the mix. Perhaps finding better facilities...OSU, Kenyon, Canton, etc.; where its a deep pool and full size would encourage out of state teams to come in. Ultimately, the solution is to grow the number of teams in Ohio. The difficulty there is the hostility that club swim coaches have to water polo. They claim it's bad for the swimmers...in reality it is bad for their business as it pulls swimmers and pool time from them.

[superman61]

Ultimately, the solution is to grow the number of teams in Ohio. The difficulty there is the hostility that club swim coaches have to water polo. They claim it's bad for the swimmers...in reality it is bad for their business as it pulls swimmers and pool time from them.

You have hit that dead center bull's eye. Swimmers who have swam for a very long time find out there is more than just laps and it's fun. When they train for water polo it directly takes money out of the clubs pockets. It does actually appear that some club coaches then invent crap about how it will mess up the kid's strokes, hurt their shoulders or they won't be able to train enough to make it to championships. The strokes don't get any more messed up than they do with some of these bad club coaches and those same coaches are the ones that strain shoulders through poor technique and over training. The benefits of water polo for the kids far out weigh the bad! It brings teams together with stronger bonds than an otherwise individual sport and helps them become more competive as a group. The sport of water polo in Ohio is being held back by some club coaches with very large egos and clubs who think they will lose so much money they can no longer exsist. They also do not want to have anything mess with their water time. If they can't make it with us there then maybe thay should quit and find something else to do! Thank you for bringing this up I have wanted to get that off my chest for awhile.:stirthepot:

[rjones]

UA has had water polo for years and it hasn't effected their competitive swimming...boys or girls. That would seem to counter club coaches claims that water polo hurts swimmers. UA girls will challenge for the water polo crown again this year, and they have won how many state championships? And it doesn't look like that's about to end. Last year the boys won water polo and then finished 3rd in swimming. Proof positive that the claim that water polo hurts swimmers is a myth.

[thedutchman]

One way to increase the visibility of the sport is to get the scores into the newspaper. So far the Dispatch in Columbus has published some scores. Since it is usually the Worthington scores, someone from Worthington must be calling them in. Perhaps if all teams made the effort to report game scores to the local papers they would broaden the coverage. Today in the Dispatch were these scores:

Boys Water polo
Thomas Worthington 8, Worthington Kilbourne 4
Worthington Kilbourne 11, Cincinnati Princeton 6
Milford 8, Worthington Kilbourne 6

Girls Water polo
Thomas Worthington 9, Penn Central (Pa.) 3
Thomas Worthington 13, Pekoman Valley (Pa.) 8
Thomas Worthington 8, Hill Academy (Pa.) 6

So far this year I have seen no scores or other articles in the Cincinnati papers. Perhaps this is because the Enquirer won't run the scores, but if no one reports them to the Enquirer they can't be published. With some heavy lobbying from the water polo community maybe the papers will begin to report on the game. That is probably the best way to generate interest.

[preeder61]

Both the Worthington (TW and Kilbourne) Boys and Girls have made a special effort to fax the scores in to the Dispatch all season. We also budgeted a significant amount to advertising the Ohio Cup in the local papers for the very same reason. The more people who see water polo, the more young kids get interested. The Worthington Pools has also committed to a youth development program for boys and girls to try to keep our numbers up while elementary school enrollment in Worthington is declining. I am only hoping that the effort and money spent will pay off in the long run. We almost lost the Kilbourne girl's team this year. We are also going to pursue more lacrosse players to pick up polo as a fall sport. Traditionally these kids are not great swimmers, but have good field sense and are tough.

I am not going to get into the swim club vs. polo discussion, I live on both sides of that fence.

[preeder61]

I think it's great that UA will get to take on both TW (avenging the earlier loss) and SC (who has never beaten UA). Expect the bears to prevail!

:)

I do like to tease you Mr. Jones!

Yes I know that TW got beat by both SC and Milford, no sense in reminding me of those loses. The TW player injured in the UA game (just an accident) did not play in either of those following games.

[rjones]

:)

I do like to tease you Mr. Jones!



When the prediction was made, I didn't know the starters would be benched. Guess the bears are saving their best for the tournament.

[scwat]

Personally, I do not think this is solely a club swimming issue. GCSTO and UA, two competitive swim clubs in Columbus have also run polo clinics, if I am not mistaken. As stated, Worthington pool has juggled polo clinics, while also hosting two high school swim and polo teams and a huge swim club.

My thinking is that most high school athletic directors are really just not informed about the sport, are limited in their budget, or just limited by the availability of pool time to consider water polo as a high school sport. Traditional swimming-strong high schools should be lobbied. Centerville, St X, University etc. have kids that may crossover naturally. That could spread the sport into cities where it is not currently played like Cleveland and Dayton. Also, mixed high school teams (like the Chicago team) could be formed for smaller schools with only a few interested kids.

For anyone who has spent time with both sports (swimming and polo) knows, it only helps kids burned out after years of club swimming, to do something more directly requiring team play (and with their heads out of the water). It is really a win-win, although short-sighted coaches may not see that. I also agree for a typical lacrosse (basketball, baseball, ...) player it looks very fun and like great off-season training.

In the meantime, I would love to see Ohio teams leaving the state for some games as St Francis has obviously been doing. Of course, their travel to Michigan is not far, but parents do not necessarily have to accompany the team trips if they really want to save money. I agree that playing the same team 5 or six times in a season is too much.

[thedutchman]

Both the Worthington (TW and Kilbourne) Boys and Girls have made a special effort to fax the scores in to the Dispatch all season. We also budgeted a significant amount to advertising the Ohio Cup in the local papers for the very same reason. The more people who see water polo, the more young kids get interested. The Worthington Pools has also committed to a youth development program for boys and girls to try to keep our numbers up while elementary school enrollment in Worthington is declining. I am only hoping that the effort and money spent will pay off in the long run. We almost lost the Kilbourne girl's team this year. We are also going to pursue more lacrosse players to pick up polo as a fall sport. Traditionally these kids are not great swimmers, but have good field sense and are tough.

I am not going to get into the swim club vs. polo discussion, I live on both sides of that fence.

That's exactly the attitude and efforts necessary to grow the sport. Worthngton has done a great job at publicizing the sport. The Ohio Cup this year by including the colleges in the girls weekend and the Chicago team in the boys serves as a great example for what the sport can be. The last 2 years the inclusion of JV teams playing separately only further helps the sport.

As to the swim club hostility...that may be true to some extent, but there are also examples of where that is not the case. At Worthington and Upper Arlington the swim clubs have coexisted with high school water polo for years and both have prospered. Similarly, New Albany's team is actually part of the swim club. Perhaps that is a formula for expansion if more swim clubs look to adding water polo to their program.

Anyway, more programs should follow the Worthington example of regularly reporting results and perhaps the papers will take notice of the sport.

[danield9tqh]

When the prediction was made, I didn't know the starters would be benched. Guess the bears are saving their best for the tournament.
Yes, wouldn't want your boys to get tired for states in a month.

[preeder61]

When the prediction was made, I didn't know the starters would be benched. Guess the bears are saving their best for the tournament.

UA Starters were all present for the TW game. Neither SC or TW will see UA again unless they all three make it out of regionals.

[bhs warrior]

UA Starters were all present for the TW game. Neither SC or TW will see UA again unless they all three make it out of regionals.

Hold on mr preeder61 SC and UA meet oct 5 at UA, a long awaited match up.
Everyone should come out and see a great game at UA.

[rjones]

Does anyone know if the New Albany team and/or Dublin team will play in the year end tournament? And if so which region?

[ohiocuse]

dublin is not, not sure on new albany

[preeder61]

Does anyone know if the New Albany team and/or Dublin team will play in the year end tournament? And if so which region?

New Albany is playing in the south region

[preeder61]

Hold on mr preeder61 SC and UA meet oct 5 at UA, a long awaited match up.
Everyone should come out and see a great game at UA.

Excellent, I did not know that they were going to play a non-tournament game. Count me in!

[superman61]

New Albany is playing in the south region

I thought New Albany was suppose to be in the North? These divisions for the regions just keep getting stranger.

[danield9tqh]

Does anyone know if the New Albany team and/or Dublin team will play in the year end tournament? And if so which region?New Albany is also playing at the final JV tournament at Toledo, so they may not be playing for regionals.

[GoinDistance]

Hopefully New Albany is playing in both the JV tournament in Toledo and one of the regionals. As a new program the experience should help them.

[jb123]

As a new program, New Albany should not have to travel to Cincinnati for basically two games, when there is a regional in Worthington. Not sure who is to blame for this mix-up.

[superman61]

As a new program, New Albany should not have to travel to Cincinnati for basically two games, when there is a regional in Worthington. Not sure who is to blame for this mix-up.

Actually they have been placed in the "South", not sure why, maybe it is time for a realignment of the Regions. Two teams that are clearly in the "North" (New Albany & Canton Glen Oak) are both sent to the "South" for regional matches. Life as I see it the "South" should be All the Cincy teams UA and St. Chuck's. The "North" should be everyone else and as teams join in depending on which side of the line thay fall is the direction they should go. Sending Glen Oak to "South" would be like making Milford play in the "North" just not right.

[thedutchman]

Remember it's not just about the boys teams, but also have to consider the girls teams. SC, StF & New Albany have only boys teams. That may explain some of the split.

[superman61]

Remember it's not just about the boys teams, but also have to consider the girls teams. SC, StF & New Albany have only boys teams. That may explain some of the split.

OK let me know if I miss someone.
South:
Milford B/G
Sycamore B/G
Princeton B/G
Mason B/G
UA B/G
Glen Oak B/G
New Albany B

North:
Napoleon B/G
Sylvania B/G
Thomas B/G
Kilbourne B/G (girls barely)
St. Ursala G (sorry if I did not spell that correctly)
St. Francis B
St Charles B

Looks like a wash to me if they change the alignment. How about you? If more teams to join in go to three then four regions. Wouldn't that be a dream come true?

[GoinDistance]

With 12 teams (boys and girls combined) in the south and only 10 in the north I would think New Albany would fit better in the north. It would make the amount of games at each sight (and therefore time between games) closer to the same.

[polofan2]

Is the Milford Boys' Tournament happening this weekend? Who is going?

[preeder61]

Is the Milford Boys' Tournament happening this weekend? Who is going?

Milford
Mason
Princeton
Sycamore
Thomas
Kilbourne

Girls on Friday and Saturday and boys on Saturday and Sunday.

[swimfan]

See that Thomas has regional schedule and rankings up for the North at their website. The seeding is as follows:

(1) ST. CHARLES
(2) ST. FRANCIS
(3) THOMAS
(4) KILBOURNE
(5) NAPOLEON
(6) SYLVANIA

Also looks like there's a new girls team Toledo St. Ursula.

[superman61]

See that Thomas has regional schedule and rankings up for the North at their website. The seeding is as follows:

(1) ST. CHARLES
(2) ST. FRANCIS
(3) THOMAS
(4) KILBOURNE
(5) NAPOLEON
(6) SYLVANIA

Also looks like there's a new girls team Toledo St. Ursula.

Boy's brackets:
10/15
Kilbourne vs. Sylvania 11:05 am
Thomas vs. Napoleon 1:15 pm
St. Charles vs. Winner 11:05am Game @ 3:25 pm
St. Francis vs. Winner 1:15 pm Game @ 4:30 pm

Girl's brackets
10/15
St. Ursula vs. Sylvania 10:00 am
Kilbourne vs. Napoleon 12:10 pm
Thomas vs. Winner 10:00 am Game @ 2:20 pm

and it takes off from there!

[superman61]

South Brackets

Boy's
10/15
11:30 am New Albany vs. Milford
1:40 pm Glen Oak vs. Mason
3:50 pm Princeton vs. Sycamore
6:00 pm UA vs. winner 3:50 pm game
8:10 pm winner 11:30 am game vs. winner 1:40 pm game

Girl's
10/15
12:35 pm Sycamore vs. Glen Oak
2:45 pm Mason vs. Princeton
4:55 pm Milford vs. winner 12:35 pm game
7:05 pm UA vs. winner 2:45 pm game

[scwat]

So now that the season is winding down and the brackets are out, who does everyone like to make it on to States?

[bhs warrior]

With 12 teams (boys and girls combined) in the south and only 10 in the north I would think New Albany would fit better in the north. It would make the amount of games at each sight (and therefore time between games) closer to the same.
Why not move all games to Ohio State, they are able to have two deep water pools. All fans and teams in one place.

[preeder61]

Why not move all games to Ohio State, they are able to have two deep water pools. All fans and teams in one place.

I discussed this very idea with the aquatics director at OSU last week. Her opinion was that since water polo is not a varsity sport, that hosting a tournament would not get much internal support. So this is not likely to happen soon.

[preeder61]

So now that the season is winding down and the brackets are out, who does everyone like to make it on to States?

You can not deny that SC is the most likely candidate with the highest odds. Certainly UA and Milford are likely in the south, but Mason and Sycamore will not go down easily. I think that Milford might even challenge for the #1 seed coming out of the south. They beat TW and UA last weekend and played 6 games on Sunday with the final only losing to SC by two goals (when SC played only three games that day). That says something. The second spot in the north is also a toss up. We have not seen enough of St. Francis and TW is inconsistent. Just depends on who shows up that day. Two defensive teams who only go one or two guys deep.

Which players are going to step up and lead their teams? No Matulis or Spangler standing out yet this year.

[thedutchman]

I agree with preeder. SC is certainly the favorite and number 1 for now. However, number 2 in the north is an open question. My money is on Thomas, although who ever wins between Thomas and StF may have the tougher road because they'll play a rested SC 3 hours later and if they lose will have to play a third game on Saturday. Not sure why StF first game (GM#7) is not until Saturday...maybe a travel or school thing.

In the south it looks wide open. Lately, Milford has been playing the best having beaten UA & Thomas recently. And a case could be made that they should be the number 1 seed instead of UA, but then again UA is the defending champ. Still both Mason & Sycamore have been competitive all year and could pull an upset. Nonetheless I would expect UA & Milford to come out of the south. The order is probably whoever is hot.

Should be an exciting 2 weeks of water polo. As we saw last year, just because a team dominates throughout the season...as SC has and UA did last year...doesn't mean that they will breeze to the championship. While SC is the legitimate favorite, any of 4 or 5 other teams could get hot and take it.

[thedutchman]

I discussed this very idea with the aquatics director at OSU last week. Her opinion was that since water polo is not a varsity sport, that hosting a tournament would not get much internal support. So this is not likely to happen soon.

That's too bad. OSU used to host the championship in its old pool. Maybe if there is continued growth in Central Ohio OSSC might look to add a water polo component to its program. Apparently the Elite Diving has joined with OSSC. If that were to happen and OSU's club water polo improved it could spark interest in hosting. Of course as the Central District learned in swimming, the bottom line is money. Come up with the rent and they will make the facility available. As I understand it the state matches moved to Mason when OSU wanted to raise the rent. Anyway I think your right that it is not likely to happen soon.

[rjones]

And a case could be made that they should be the number 1 seed instead of UA, but then again UA is the defending champ.

Not only is UA a proper #1 seed in the south and the defending state champion, but look for the Bears to be at the top of their game for the tournament. I expect them to pull the upset and repeat as state champion.

[preeder61]

As I understand it the state matches moved to Mason when OSU wanted to raise the rent. Anyway I think your right that it is not likely to happen soon.

It is a revenue generating problem for sure. The facility can be rented for about $15k for the boys and girls state championships. But, look at the math. The cost per ticket at $10, you would need 1,500 guests. 8 teams of 16 kids, 2 parent average is only 256 x 2 days, that means that we would need about 900 polo enthusiast off the street or each team to put up $1,000 entry fee. The numbers just do not work very well unless OSSC participates. We have had this discussion about swim clubs and polo clubs not always seeing eye to eye.

But we should keep looking at new pools. Mason does a great job now and we are happy that the teams can afford it. Looking forward to a great tournament season ahead.

Love your unwavering UA support Mr. Jones!

[swimfan]

I expect them to pull the upset and repeat as state champion.

I doubt it Mr. Jones. I think you're in for a reality check next week when SC plays UA.

[scwat]

The direction in OSU aquatics is abysmal, that is the bottom line. Other than Kyle Goodrich (and maybe excepting Bill Wadley), there is no-one currently there with any vision or ability to see how hosting state functions enhance both the university and the central Ohio and Ohio communities. The truth is the facility sits empty way too often and it is overpriced for the very reason of keeping most groups out of pool. If you don't believe me, walk in there on any weekend. What you will see is typically 2 or 3 faculty members swimming laps in a 10 lane 50 meter pool with a diving well.

Hopefully the OSSC will signal a change in direction for the facility and the new blood will bring about change faster than people think. That is my sincere hope. There is no reason a state-funded university with currently the best aquatic facility in the state should not be hosting high school championship events and supporting the community at large without charging everyone an arm and a leg.

[scwat]

My money is on Thomas, although who ever wins between Thomas and StF may have the tougher road because they'll play a rested SC 3 hours later and if they lose will have to play a third game on Saturday.




It is strange how this works out. It worked against St Charles last year as they beat ST F and had to play a rested TW. They played them close but then they lost a close game to St F afterwards.

This year it will be very difficult to keep St C out of the state. I really think they are playing their best right now. Keep in mind, they beat Milford in the final at Princeton last week without two starters.

I also still see Thomas as the number 2 but they will have to play well. BTW, will their injured starter be returning soon?

St Francis has been steadily improving (possibly all those games against Michigan teams). I think they are the fourth best team in the state, but that could leave them at home for the semi-finals.

I admire your spirit Jones, but UA simply hasn't delivered on your predictions. I expect them to get beat soundly by St C at home next week and think that either Sycamore or Mason will knock them out of the South. The other team I think will be there will be Milford, which I think may be the overall 3 right now.

[preeder61]

BTW, will their injured starter be returning soon?

Still being evaluated and not back to practice yet. Awaiting doctor's follow-up decision.

[bhs warrior]

Still being evaluated and not back to practice yet. Awaiting doctor's follow-up decision.

SC fans and team hope all is well for the young man and hope that all teams are at thier best for the coming games.

[ImPartial]

...UA... and think that either Sycamore or Mason will knock them out of the South. The other team I think will be there will be Milford, which I think may be the overall 3 right now.

Looking at Sycamore's web site, their record before this weekend was about 3-14. The only matches their site lists as victories were against Napoleon and Princeton. What has Sycamore done that gives you optimism they can beat UA?

Also, look at the way the bracket is set up in the South Regional:

3:50 pm Princeton vs. Sycamore
6:00 pm UA vs. winner 3:50 pm game

The winner of Princeton/Sycamore has one hour rest and then plays a fresh UA team. If they do manage a HUGE upset of UA, then my hearty congratulations.

[rjones]

Looking at Sycamore's web site, their record before this weekend was about 3-14. The only matches their site lists as victories were against Napoleon and Princeton. What has Sycamore done that gives you optimism they can beat UA?

Also, look at the way the bracket is set up in the South Regional:

3:50 pm Princeton vs. Sycamore
6:00 pm UA vs. winner 3:50 pm game

The winner of Princeton/Sycamore has one hour rest and then plays a fresh UA team. If they do manage a HUGE upset of UA, then my hearty congratulations.

Amen Impartial. The prospect of Sycamore beating UA is a longshot at best!

[bhs warrior]

For those of u staying in town SAT St. Charles is hosting its first invite:
9 am SC JV vs UA JV
10am DUBLIN vs SYLVANIA
11am NEW ALBANY vs GLEN OAK
12 DUBLIN vs UA JV
1PM SC vs SYLVANIA
2PM NEW ALBANY vs UA JV
3PM SC VS GLEN OAK
4PM NEW ALBANY VS SYLVANIA
5PM DUBLIN VS GLEN OAK

[bhs warrior]

What happen to Chimera ohio water polo club, ithought they were going to start a centeral ohio water polo club ?

[preeder61]

What happen to Chimera ohio water polo club, ithought they were going to start a centeral ohio water polo club ?

The group was set up to organize and facilitate polo clinics and perhaps start a central Ohio USA polo club, but there was just not enough interest (or collaboration) with the HS teams for spring and summer play. So many of the good polo players are also good swimmers, so spring and summer is long course season and the players needed to make a choice. I don't think that there are enough dedicated non-swimming polo players from area teams to make one club. The club would also have to commit to an extensive travel game schedule. But there are ongoing clinic plans by the organizers.

[sportsfan12]

ok ive been a waterpolo fan for 5 years and ive only learned one thing from this...princeton is the most consistent team out there...state rankings go like this:
1. Princeton
2. St Charles
3. Princeton JV
4. ??????????

[jb123]

#4 is probably Princeton's Girls team

[sportsfan12]

#4 is probably Princeton's Girls team

ok ok first of all...girls and guys water polo is seperate where have you been...second of all they just dont have the team unity and two meter skill that is needed to play at that caliber

[swimfan]

Boys water polo
St. Charles Invitational
St. Charles 11, Upper Arlington 'B' 9
St. Charles 18, Canton GlenOak 5
St. Charles 18, Sylvania 2
Sylvania 14, Dublin 4
Sylvania 19, New Albany 9
Upper Arlington ‘B’ 12, New Albany 9
Upper Arlington ‘B’ 10, Dublin 7
New Albany 10, Canton GlenOak 7
Canton GlenOak 21, Dublin 9

Milford Tournament
Thomas Worthington 5, Cin. Sycamore 2
Milford 7, Thomas Worthington 3
Mason 12, Worthington Kilbourne 4
Worthington Kilbourne 5, Cin. Princeton 1

Girls water polo
Thomas Worthington 9, Cin. Princeton 4
Thomas Worthington 6, Milford 5

[scwat]

St Charles - Glenoak pre-game "dance"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCpiklRQrg0

[preeder61]

Love the Roller Coaster Dance. Glen Oak has more fun than any team I have seen this season! Congrats to their coach for keeping such a great attitude.

SC at UA, tomorrow night (Tuesday) varsity 6:00. Should be a great game to see their first meeting of the season.

[waterpolo5]

I love how every school thinks they can pull off the roller coaster. Mason broke it out with the creation of the Black Hole in 08 for the basketball season and nobody can do it like us Black Holians. We are amazing.

As for water polo...Mason was missing half of their starters at the Milford Invite due to homecoming and a wedding. UA and Milford better be ready in two weeks, Mason's coming out strong.

[waterpolo5]

I discussed this very idea with the aquatics director at OSU last week. Her opinion was that since water polo is not a varsity sport, that hosting a tournament would not get much internal support. So this is not likely to happen soon.

Mason has the best facility in the state of Ohio other than a college campus. So keep it there because we are the best!

[preeder61]

So what happened in the Birmingham Tournament? UA and St. Francis both there, but I can not find any results online other than Huron winning all four games beating Okemos, Rockford and Groves.

[jb123]

UA won their first two games, then lost to Rockford in the semi-finals. UA then walked over Groves in the 3rd place game, as Groves mainly played their reserves after losing a close game to Huron in the other semi-final.
I think (not positive)that Toledo St. Francis lost their opener to Okemos, then proceeded to win their next 3 games to place 9th.

[rjones]

St. Charles 11, Upper Arlington 'B' 9

This was UA's JV. Heard that SC played their varsity this weekend. If so, this is a very good showing for the JV.

UA won their first two games, then lost to Rockford in the semi-finals. UA then walked over Groves in the 3rd place game, as Groves mainly played their reserves after losing a close game to Huron in the other semi-final.

I don't buy that. Nobody plays to lose. Looks to me like they are tuning up for SC and a run to the state title by knocking off the No. 2 ranked team in Michigan.

SC at UA, tomorrow night (Tuesday) varsity 6:00. Should be a great game to see their first meeting of the season.

...and Tuesday the run begins. Go BEARS!

[preeder61]

I don't buy that. Nobody plays to lose. Looks to me like they are tuning up for SC and a run to the state title by knocking off the No. 2 ranked team in Michigan.

...and Tuesday the run begins. Go BEARS!

I might not put too much stock in a win over Groves, SC and TW also beat them. But it would be strange for a team put play reserves and risk a loss this late in the season.

I also thought that the State Championship repeat run for the Bears started last weekend at Princeton? ;) See you tomorrow at UA for the SC game.

[bhs warrior]

This was UA's JV. Heard that SC played their varsity this weekend. If so, this is a very good showing for the JV.



I don't buy that. Nobody plays to lose. Looks to me like they are tuning up for SC and a run to the state title by knocking off the No. 2 ranked team in Michigan.



...and Tuesday the run begins. Go BEARS!
SC JV played UA JV

[swimfan]

Boys water polo
Milford Tournament
Worthington Kilbourne 11, Thomas Worthington 8
Milford 11, Worthington Kilbourne 7
Thomas Worthington 6, Mason 3
Cincinnati Sycamore 8, Worthington Kilbourne 7
Thomas Worthington 7, Cincinnati Princeton 4

[preeder61]

Boys water polo
Milford Tournament
Worthington Kilbourne 11, Thomas Worthington 8


Just want to point out that since TW plays WK on Wednesday for Senior Recognition night, the coaches decided to allow JV play JV in the Milford Tournament and it was a fun game to watch. The varsity coached each team.

[preeder61]

Fun game to watch. SC was up 6-1 and UA just clawed back to tie it and score with 15 seconds to go. You've got to hand it to UA for not giving up. Props Mr. Jones, the Bears played well tonight and provided great entertainment for our Worthington boys.

[danield9tqh]

Fun game to watch. SC was up 6-1 and UA just clawed back to tie it and score with 15 seconds to go. You've got to hand it to UA for not giving up. Props Mr. Jones, the Bears played well tonight and provided great entertainment for our Worthington boys.

UA wanted it more in the second half.

[rjones]

Looks to me like they are tuning up for SC and a run to the state title by knocking off the No. 2 ranked team in Michigan.
...and Tuesday the run begins. Go BEARS!
8-7 Bears as expected. The march to the title has begun!

[swimfan]

8-7 Bears as expected. The march to the title has begun!

Impressive victory Mr. Jones. As they say that's why they play the game. However, I doubt the rest of the state is ready to concede the title to UA. Milford & Mason in the south along with TW, StF, & SC in the north may have other ideas about who wins the title. It's looking like everyone is vulnerable. I expect that whoever gets hot over the next two and half weeks will win it and it could be any of the these six.

[scwat]

I agree with Preeder that the game was entertaining. The amount of kickouts was reminiscent of SC's first game with Thomas, and it definitely changed the way the game was played. In the second half it seemed like SC didn't know how to play. Sit on a big lead and take time off the clock. They didn't do it. Stay aggressive and continue to push defensively. They didn't really do that either. Yes, I would say that St Charles was a bit stunned by the turn of events last night and obviously disappointed. I wouldn't say it changes the claim to the number one team during the season. You don't go 27-3 (25-1 in Ohio) for no reason and when you compare it to UAs season, well you really can't. The bigger question is which part of last night's game is closest to reality. The first half where SC pretty much had their way with UA. The second half, in which UA scored seven straight goals. Or the entire game, which would suggest a fairly even matchup at this point. That should be decided along with which other teams may have their presence felt in the playoffs. Should be fun.

[preeder61]

The amount of kickouts was reminiscent of SC's first game with Thomas, and it definitely changed the way the game was played.

11 against Thomas and 9 against SC in that first game. Certainly changed the outcome with three starters on the bench for the second half. Not sure why it seems that when the games get close and the officiating gets more critical, the game calling sometimes gets inconsistent.

27 wins is impressive, but this is the fun of tournaments, it's anyone's game to win.

[superman61]

Hey noticed Alex Chin is back with UA. Where has he been all season?
9 days until regional tournaments start!
Will be very interesting to see what happens 10/15.
Let's go this is gonna be fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bhs warrior]

11 against Thomas and 9 against SC in that first game. Certainly changed the outcome with three starters on the bench for the second half. Not sure why it seems that when the games get close and the officiating gets more critical, the game calling sometimes gets inconsistent.

27 wins is impressive, but this is the fun of tournaments, it's anyone's game to win.

The number of kick outs in columbus is amazing, and it seems only one official at the game is making most of the calls. Officials may need to spend more time teaching each other. Last time I checked water polo was a contact sport.

[swimfan]

Boys water polo
Thomas Worthington 10, Worthington Kilbourne 8

[yetiinaspeedo5]

The number of kick outs in columbus is amazing, and it seems only one official at the game is making most of the calls. Officials may need to spend more time teaching each other. Last time I checked water polo was a contact sport.

There have already been efforts made to address this. Many of the camps this past year in Worthington were setup not only to provide the athletes with the knowledge but also coaches and officials. Dr. Loren Bertocci has been at the past 2 Ohio cups not only reffing but also as an educator for the refs. All athletes and parents should definiately check out these clinics tho, they bring in very knowledgeable and experienced coaches and refs and you dont have to shell out absurd amounts to go unlike pepperine or Navy. Through this we can bring up the caliber of play in Ohio and get more kids scholarships.

[danield9tqh]

Toledo JV Tournament Final

SC-11
Toledo SF-9

[thedutchman]

Toledo JV Tournament Final

SC-11
Toledo SF-9

This is the second year in a row that St Charles has won the McGarity. This is certainly the top JV tournament of the year. And SC's second victory certainly suggests that SC's water polo program is fully developed. It remains to be seen if they can win the state. Obviously from their regular season dominance they are the favorite. Look for SC to continue as a power in Ohio high school water polo.

[preeder61]

This is the second year in a row that St Charles has won the McGarity. This is certainly the top JV tournament of the year. And SC's second victory certainly suggests that SC's water polo program is fully developed. It remains to be seen if they can win the state. Obviously from their regular season dominance they are the favorite. Look for SC to continue as a power in Ohio high school water polo.

I think that it is great to have a JV tournament, so I applaud St. Francis for hosting a tournament, but I am not sure that the strength of SC's JV team is an indication of anything other than their big team. Where do you draw the line on "JV"? If it was a freshman team then all JV teams would be equal and power factors could be an indicator. But there is no established JV qualification.

Let's encourage more teams to host JV tournaments to get the younger players game time.

[danield9tqh]

I think that it is great to have a JV tournament, so I applaud St. Francis for hosting a tournament, but I am not sure that the strength of SC's JV team is an indication of anything other than their big team. Where do you draw the line on "JV"? If it was a freshman team then all JV teams would be equal and power factors could be an indicator. But there is no established JV qualification.

Let's encourage more teams to host JV tournaments to get the younger players game time.

SC's JV team of 12 included 9 first year players (8 freshmen) and 3 second year players

[swimfan]

SC's JV team of 12 included 9 first year players (8 freshmen) and 3 second year playersThat would seem to be a good indicator of SC's future. If the JV consists of only 3 second year players then this year's varsity which has been dominant is stocked with last year's JV. It's way...as they haven't won anything yet...to early to talk dynasty... but that's how they are built.

[rjones]

Win something before talking dynasty. If you look at the history of Ohio High School Water Polo UA & St Francis have dominated. Between them they have won more than half the state titles and they have been runner up about a third of the time. UA has been the dominant force since 2000. Now those are dynasties.

[yetiinaspeedo5]

If you look at the past 9 state title games while UA has won three and lost 2 twhs record is just the opposite. You also have milford and kilbourne each winning 2. I dont really see a dominance over the state. As far as pre-2000s ohio was hardly playing polo really just a group of fast swimmers who could shoot the ball hard, not exactly technical water polo

[swimfan]

That would seem to be a good indicator of SC's future. If the JV consists of only 3 second year players then this year's varsity which has been dominant is stocked with last year's JV. It's way...as they haven't won anything yet...to early to talk dynasty... but that's how they are built.
Win something before talking dynasty.

rjones did you read the post? All I was saying is that if SC is establishing a strong feeder system they will be strong in the future. I did not suggest that they are a dynasty...only that a strong JV team year in and year out will improve the program and perhaps be a predicter of future success.

And I agree with yetiinaspeedo5, while it is true that UA has been strong since 2000, they have not been the dominant force. TW, Kilbourne & Milford have all had comparable success during that period. However, I'm not sure that I would be quite as dismissive of the play in the 70s, 80s, & 90s. But then maybe he played back then or at least followed the teams.

[superman61]

Just so everyone knows:

St. Ursula can not make it on Friday (1015) for the North Regional Championships due to their final exams.

Thus they are forfeiting the game to Sylvania.

This is the 1st game of the North tournament - Game # 1 - St. Ursula -vs- Sylvania @ 10:00 AM - 10/15.

Sylvania will now advance to game # 5 @ 2:20 PM against Thomas on 10/15.

St. Ursula will drop to game # 8 @ 9:10 AM on 10/16.

[scwat]

At this point, there seems to be a degree of parity concerning Ohio High School water polo. Concerning St.Charles, I would say they have a definite disadvantage in building a dynasty. They are a school fed by multiple feeder schools, not a community based school. This is good for swimming, especially when they have a reputation now that attracts some good club swimmers. It doesn't really help their water polo program though, because their feeder schools are so spread out and most kids in Catholic schools in Columbus are not aware that water polo exists. Worthington and UA (at least in Columbus), being community schools, can introduce the sport to the younger age groups, whereas many St Charles students come from middle schools with no exposure. It is true that their JV dominated last year and many of those players have helped the varsity significantly this year, but I agree that it is a little early to talk dynasty. They would be very happy with a championship after a great regular season. They still have not beat UA in a head to head match and have never been past the regionals. This may be the year?

[yetiinaspeedo5]

However, I'm not sure that I would be quite as dismissive of the play in the 70s, 80s, & 90s. But then maybe he played back then or at least followed the teams.

I was half kidding about that I know a couple of the guys here played back then and I was trying to get a rise out of them.

[jb123]

Just so everyone knows:

St. Ursula can not make it on Friday (1015) for the North Regional Championships due to their final exams.

Thus they are forfeiting the game to Sylvania.

This is the 1st game of the North tournament - Game # 1 - St. Ursula -vs- Sylvania @ 10:00 AM - 10/15.

Sylvania will now advance to game # 5 @ 2:20 PM against Thomas on 10/15.

St. Ursula will drop to game # 8 @ 9:10 AM on 10/16.

A 10:15AM game this Friday? I'm surprised that many schools are able to take time off for a club sport. Exactly what kind of crowds do the organizers expect on a Friday morning?
How is this helping grow the sport?

[superman61]

A 10:15AM game this Friday? I'm surprised that many schools are able to take time off for a club sport. Exactly what kind of crowds do the organizers expect on a Friday morning?
How is this helping grow the sport?

The South starts at 11:30 am, is it really that much of a difference? It is what it is, and we all gotta do what it takes to pull these games off for the sport. Would you rather see a three day tournament that ran into Sunday? I'm sure there would be even more complaints about that.