On Nov. 6, Encinal competed in the first round of NCS against Tamalpais. The Jets fell short, losing 15-6, marking the end of their 2025 water polo season.
“This has been the most special season that I’ve ever played so far,” said goalie Rory Harling. “ I love every single person on our team, and we are genuinely a family. I’m gonna miss them so much. I’m really heartbroken that it’s over.”
A highlight of the game was sophomore Isabel Keim, coming with a close, strategic shot. Her teammates had noticed how hard she had been trying to perfect it.
“Isabel made a really, really good shot… you can tell she’s been working on it all season and it has all played off,” freshman Lucie Harriet said.
The plays that had been practiced in preparation were also executed. Their one-across play worked well when getting back on defense. However, overall, there were instances in the game where players felt, on offense, that their adjustment to the Tamalpais’ defense hurt their playing.
“Our NCS game did not go as I hoped it would’ve gone,” Harling said. “Honestly, I’m really proud of us for making it that far…. It was just really wonderful to be with our whole team. However, it wasn’t fantastic.”
There were some positive outcomes to the season, however. Thanks to making it to the NCS Playoffs, the Jets moved up to Division 1.
“I was excited, especially to hear that we were in D1,” said junior Grace Harriet, “just because that’s the highest… our women’s water polo team has gone in quite awhile.”
Encinal also celebrated a good season for certain players as well. Grace Harriet was honored as first team all-league, meaning she was recognized by league coaches for her skill and performance.
“I was really excited [when I found out],” she said, “especially because my coach said it when I was with my team and it was really exciting.”
In addition, Kiely Wong and Hannah Reid were awarded 2nd Team All League. Rory Harling and Lucie Harriet received an honorable mention.
The Jets will be having to make adjustments going into next season. Encinal graduate and a part of the water polo program of 25 years, Kyle Baldi is moving from a coach to administration.
“Overall, we were successful in achieving season goals and had fun doing it,” said Baldi while summarizing the season. “Our seniors lead a great group of girls through a competitive schedule and not once were there any setbacks or hiccups. I’m looking forward to next season so we can start right back off where we left off.”
The Jets were one of few Encinal teams that made playoffs in the fall season. Even though the departure of a beloved coach and seniors will change the team going forward, women’s water polo has and will continue to make the Encinal community proud.
