However, it seems that every night can be topped by another. The game of October 20th was one to remember, although perhaps in not such a pleasant light. When one of the Summit players, whose name will not be disclosed, pulled a rather fierce blow to a Lava Bear girl, the Bend player then responded in an equally angry manner, upon which the Bend player was asked to leave the game. Later, another wrangle sparked between two other players. Bend finished with a victory of 12-5.

It’s obvious that as the tantalizing prospect of State draws nearer, the rivalries are getting hotter by the minute. The grand finale for this season is approaching, and now, every game counts!

All in all, the game undeniably went well. Coach Jenny Lund had much to say after the game.

Q: How well would you say the team played tonight?
A: “I would say we’ve improved consistently- but we still have a long way to go.”

Q: How do you think having only six players in the water at a time affected this game?
A: “I think it allowed us to use the few subs that we have more effectively.”

Q: Was there anything about this team that made them particularly difficult to beat?
A: Their [Summit's] team leader [Paige Anderson, #11] is a very strong player, and I think that they were harder to beat with her.”

Madeleine Torres, who I caught just after the game, feels equally enthusiastic, although perhaps not in so many words.

Q: What is your favorite part of water polo?
A: “Getting in their face.”

Q: Do you think Bend High Water Polo is headed for state this year?
A: “Yes! Of course!”

Q: What’s one thing you feel the team needs improvement in?
A: “Throwing under pressure.”

As for Bend High Boys Varsity Team, they finally lost 7-5 after a long struggle with the Summit Boys. But on the bright side, Bend’s JV Boys won their game 9-1. It was a bittersweet night, but a good battle with the best of adversaries. “I’m all for Summit.” said assistant Bend girl’s coach Shay “Just not right now.”

Go, Bears!