There will be a new boys champion at the UIL water polo state tournament. Dawson defeated Strake Jesuit for its first regional title at Lamar’s McDonald Aquatic Center
Dawson (23-10) advanced to the state water polo tournament with an 18-11 victory over the Strake Jesuit Crusaders in the boys Region II final, scoring the last four goals of the match to pull away one year after losing the regional final in overtime to eventual state champion Brazoswood.
Travis Thames led all scorers with nine goals for Dawson, including two skillful shots to help the Eagles to a 4-1 lead. Dawson led 8-5 at halftime, aided in the second quarter by two of Logan Kraft’s six goals.
Strake Jesuit sent several shots off the frame of the goal during the first half, including a penalty shot. Down 11-5 to the Eagles, the Crusaders rallied within 14-11 with the help of two goals by Zach Jones.
“They didn’t let up on offense,” Dawson coach Collin Gray said. “They kept the aggression. They were putting up great shots. Overall, it was just fantastic. We did everything that we worked on. One of the most complete games we had. Our goalie stepped up and was a brick wall. He definitely helped us out of some sticky situations.”
Jordan Pomier made 12 saves for the Eagles, while Patrick McMillan added a goal during a 3-0 run out of halftime.
Strake Jesuit (23-4) eliminated defending state champion Brazoswood 18-16 in the semifinals.
“We played them once, and it was tied going into the fourth quarter,” Gray said. “Then they ran away. They had the numbers; they had the endurance. It was a wake-up call for us. They are a great team. I’m so happy we met them in the finals.”
The state tournament is scheduled for Saturday, October 28, at Josh Davis Natatorium in San Antonio. Boys semifinals start at 9 a.m., with the girls beginning play at noon. Championship matches are scheduled for 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
