DOWNEY - The Warren High School boys' water polo team has gotten off to a fast start and currently has a 3-1 record.The Bears hosted their annual alumni game on Aug. 30 and welcomed back former Bears John and David Adams, two collegiate water polo players. The two put on a clinic and managed to show this year's Bear squad the difference between collegiate and high school "polo." Coach Nichols was very pleased to welcome back former Bear players and, in the process, challenge this year's squad in a spirited competition. It is safe to say that the Bears won this game. The Bears recently competed in the El Rancho Tournament from Sept. 6-8. The Bears finished second in this tournament and brought home a nice sized trophy in the process. The Bears defeated Pioneer 26-3, Cal High 13-11, Montclair 17-12 and lost to tournament champion and host school El Rancho 20-16 in the championship match. Standout goalie Bernabe Perez suffered a dislocated shoulder in the first game against Pioneer and is out for several weeks. Field player Juan Sixtos stepped in for Perez and collected 27 saves in three games. Jonathan Iglesias led the Bear scoring attack with 24 goals and Diego Lucas led the defense with 13 steals. Leon Yao won all 15 sprints and helped the Bears control the possession game. Coach Nichols was very pleased with his team's effort and stated that "everyone on the team scored a goal in this tournament." Nichols is excited about this year's team and concluded by saying that "our goal this season is getting to the Division IV C.I.F. Finals." Warren will begin league play on Oct. 2 when they travel to cross-town rival Downey.

********** Published: September 13, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 22