After capturing a Mountain Pacific Sports Federation championship title, the UCLA women’s water polo team now has its sights set on the next task at hand: the NCAAs.
With the NCAAs approaching in two weeks, the Bruins have now shifted their attention to the upcoming tournament that will be held at the Avery Aquatic Center at Stanford.
This year’s NCAA Tournament may serve as a threat, however, as the Bruins are traveling back into Cardinal territory.
UCLA has captured three wins at Stanford, but it has also suffered its only two losses at Stanford against the Cardinal. The difference this year: UCLA is going into the NCAAs with the MPSF tournament championship title.
“I don’t know how much momentum it gives us (going into the NCAAs),” said coach Brandon Brooks. “I think it definitely gave us a great experience. Being in the championship semifinal and championship final and getting a win is always going to be helpful.”
Throughout its entire season, UCLA has prided itself on strong defense. During the MPSF tournament, the Bruins were able to do just that, but they also showed their ability to stay calm and relaxed in tense situations. If the Bruins were to possibly face Stanford in the NCAA Tournament, it would be imperative for them to keep the calm demeanor that they showed in the MPSF semifinals and finals.
“I think our team’s strength is our ability to adapt and knowing when we aren’t really playing our best communication defense … how we can recognize that and turn it around in a second,” said redshirt senior goalkeeper Sami Hill. “(It was important) knowing that everything will be okay if we just relax and not freak out.”
Though the Bruins will not be traveling to Stanford until a couple of weeks, this gap of time gets reserved for practice. Nevertheless, there is still that presence of knowing that one championship title is secured.
“I definitely think winning the MPSF tournament gives us momentum,” said junior attacker Kodi Hill. “We are just going to keep doing what we have been doing and getting better each practice. I’m really excited to play in two weeks.”