The water polo teams of Friendswood High School (FHS) exhibited success at the 19th Annual Ben Garcia Memorial Water Polo Tournament, also known as “The Purple Monkey”. The FHS girls and boys water polo squads concluded their last pre-district tournament on Aug. 26 with an impressive 2-1 record.
FHS played host to the preliminary round of the tournament on Thursday, Aug. 24. The girls’ team secured victory in their initial match against St. Agnes, while the boys’ team emerged triumphant against Strake Jesuit. However, the subsequent matches of the evening witnessed a setback as Brazoswood defeated both FHS teams. Notably, Brazoswood’s boys’ team holds the reigning state championship title, and their girls’ team secured the second position in the inaugural UIL State Water Polo Meet last fall.
The final matches transpired at Shadow Creek, where FHS teams clashed with Baytown Sterling. Both the girls’ and boys’ squads clinched victories, elevating their current season records to 10-3 and 7-6, respectively.
A distinctive feature of the Purple Monkey tournament is the scholarships given to selected seniors. In this regard, Paul Podrebarac, a member of the FHS water polo program, was named a recipient.
Looking ahead, the FHS water polo teams are gearing up for their upcoming game at their home pool on Tuesday, Sept. 5. The event marks their inaugural district game against Galveston Ball. The girls’ match will begin at 5 pm, followed by the boys’ game at 6 pm. District 11 encompasses Brazoswood, Galveston Ball, Texas City and FHS.
Additionally, the FHS water polo squads are set to participate in the Spring Branch ISD Invite on Sept. 16 where FHS will face opponents Bridgeland, Memorial, and Springwoods.
The Mustangs are coached by Head Coach Craig Sikkema and assistant coaches Crissy Kemp and Shawna Lewis.
