Updated 5/13 at 1 pm

For the first time in school history, OHS girls water polo is considered its own sport. And, not only is it the first year, but the team is a strong contender for a state championship.

“Considering that the girls on the team have never played an all girls game or have never played a game in their life, we have had a pretty good record,” said player Alexis Penning (11). “To me it’s amazing, I didn’t think we were going to do this good and to be this good makes me feel more confident in the game and in my team.”

However, with recent injuries and COVID protocol, the team had to put a hold on all games for a while.

“We have had two (players with) fractured fingers and concussions,” said Penning, who broke fingers earlier in the season. “But we have a lot of players on the team, which we are very grateful for. However, COVID has made this season pretty hard. We have had the whole team quarantined once.”

The team recently finished its regular season with a record of 6-1, and is returning to health, planning to make a strong run at state.

“Luckily we will have people back and ready for the state tournament, and we are excited,” said Penning. “I think we are going to be amazing even if we lose, because I know everyone is going to work as hard as they can to do their best and to hopefully win.”

The girls beat Lafayette on May 12, (17-6) and will play Marquette at Mary Institute-Country Day School in the state finals on May 15th