Soquel High Water Polo Teams Claim SCCAL Titles in Dominant Sweep

UPDATE: Soquel High’s water polo teams have delivered a stunning performance, clinching both the boys’ and girls’ titles in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League (SCCAL) with decisive victories over Santa Cruz High. The boys secured a commanding 15-10 victory, while the girls dominated with a crushing 19-2 win, solidifying their status as league champions.

The boys’ team, ranked No. 3 in the Central Coast Section, showcased their prowess with senior Stryder Stelck scoring four goals and assisting two more. This win marks their perfect 4-0 league record, a significant achievement after overcoming the defending champions, Santa Cruz, in a fierce rivalry match on October 11, 2023.

“This is nice, but we’re not done yet,” said Knights coach Ryan Chapatte. “Now, we’ll get ready for playoffs. We’re not going to be satisfied with just this.” The Knights will now prepare for the SCCAL Tournament championship next weekend, where they could face Santa Cruz again.

In a thrilling showdown, the Knights maintained momentum throughout the game, with junior Gabriel Suarez-Abraham contributing three goals and four assists. The match was highly physical, with 12 player ejections, reflecting the intensity of this rivalry. “It’s a really important win to show who we are as a team,” Suarez-Abraham stated, emphasizing their capability to compete at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the girls’ team continued its reign in the SCCAL, securing their 15th straight league title. The Knights, ranked No. 2 in the CCS, displayed their dominance by scoring 15 consecutive goals after initially leading 4-2 against Santa Cruz. Coach Shelby White praised her team, saying, “We’ve got a big weekend coming up… and the girls stepped up and did that.”

The Knights’ offensive prowess was evident, with ten players contributing to the score sheet. Junior Keira “Kiki” Burke and senior Natalie Salerno each scored three goals, leading the team to a remarkable finish. “It was just a fun game,” Burke shared, highlighting the camaraderie and competitive spirit shared with friends on the opposing team.

Both teams will now shift focus to upcoming playoff matches, with Soquel’s boys set to face No. 9 Los Altos on Saturday at 11 a.m., while the girls prepare for the two-day NorCal Invitational at Palo Alto High, starting Friday at 12:05 p.m.

As the playoffs approach, the excitement surrounding Soquel High’s water polo teams continues to build. Fans are eager to see if the Knights can translate their league success into postseason triumphs. Stay tuned for updates on their playoff journey!