Seminole’s girls water polo team capped an undefeated regular season at 24-0 with a 16-4 win over Oviedo on Thursday, leading a sweep for the program.
Halle Zimlich led the way with two saves, four assists, and two steals. Vivian Swain added one save, two assists, and six steals, while Naia Hair contributed two assists and three steals. Raelynn Bouley recorded three assists, and Gabby Pierson (one assist, three steals) and Abigail Coleman (one assist, four steals) anchored the defense.
With a veteran core leading the way, coach Ryna Ackerson said the team understands what it takes to win.
“The mindset is there for them and they’ve been there before,” Ackerson said. “A lot of them were on the team two years ago (that won the state title) and they were on the team that had one loss last year.”
Ackerson said the team’s consistency in preparation has fueled its success.
“The girls practice well, play well, they just do all the right things to be successful,” she said.
Seminole will play in the District Semifinals on Monday at Lake Brantley High School. Opponent is to be determined.
The boys’ team followed with a 15-10 win to cap a 21-4 regular season. Ethan Pierson recorded 10 saves and one steal in goal. Timmy Samples had four assists and two steals, while Becton Suber added three assists and two steals. Luc LeRoy finished with two assists and two steals. Adam Walker had three steals, and Brayden Tarkowski and Darian West each added two steals.
Ackerson said the boys’ challenging schedule and veteran leadership have prepared them for the postseason.
“They played a hard schedule this year, there’s a lot of experience,” she said. “We are senior-heavy (seven seniors). They’ve been waiting for this year to be successful.”
The boys will also compete in the District Semifinals on Monday at Lake Brantley High School. Opponent is to be determined.
