Sam Stanley, junior, at Armijo is a swimmer that partakes in water polo and swimming. She is an inspiration to many teammates, and to herself every day. “My favorite part is all the friends and great relationships you build with your teammates and all the crazy and exciting times you have with them,” Stanley said.

Although she loves the team aspect, and friendships she makes, there is more to this sport than friendships being made. Stanley has a lot of competition in the Monticello Empire League, her biggest competition is Napa because Armijo just can’t seem to beat them in their offense or defense. Stanley mentioned that Armijo’s team has been alright at shutting Napa down, but this year they’re just having a hard time keeping up with their team.

Although Stanley has some concerns with their rivals, overall her season has a positive look ahead. She said, “Our season is going pretty good so far. We’ve beat Rod every single time that we’ve played them, and both times we’ve gotten really close to beating vintage. We were within a few points. But as for Napa, we have not had very close games, they are usually three or more points ahead of us but we’re getting closer to them each time.” Even though they have some tough games with Napa, they are improving.

It’s easy to wonder where all this drive comes from, Stanley said, “My dad and Rachel inspire me the most. My dad comes to all the games. He constantly encourages me to try my best. His favorite thing to do is say, "shoot shoot score!" Even when the game hasn’t even started. Rachel inspires me also because she is so good at what she does, she makes me want to be just as good in my own position.”

To most, water polo is just a game, but to Stanley it’s much more than that. She has formed close bonds to many teammates, had tough competition, and has been inspired by people that will change her life forever. She has very high hopes to see where water polo will take her.