Pirates Go Perfect 5-0, Claim Saddleback Tournament Championship

The Modesto Junior College men's water polo team continued their dominant season, finishing the week undefeated at 5-0. The Pirates opened with a commanding 23-4 victory over Delta College, improving to 3-0 in Big 8 Conference play.

 

Following the league win, MJC traveled south to compete in the Saddleback College Tournament, where they captured the championship with four impressive victories. The Pirates rolled past Miramar College 22-1 to open play, then battled through a thrilling sudden-death overtime win over Grossmont College, 14-13. In the semifinals, Modesto defeated Palomar College 17-8 before meeting Grossmont again in the championship match, securing the title with a 17-14 victory.

 

The Pirates showcased a balanced offensive attack throughout the weekend. Alex Castillo (So., Bullard HS) and Cooper Harris (Fr., Turlock HS) led the way with 10 goals apiece. Ben Svoboda (Fr., Ripon HS) and Keanu Laolagi (So., Downey HS) each netted seven goals, while Mike Rowan (Fr., Turlock HS) added six. Defensively, goalkeeper Jack Fischer (Fr., Downey HS) was outstanding, recording 46 saves across four tournament games.

 

The Pirates now enjoy a well-earned week off before returning to the Dave Ashleigh Aquatic Center to host conference rival Sierra College on Tuesday, October 15, at 3:30 p.m.