Sports

The Falcons scrape together a victory against the Tam Hawks

Carolyn Morris, Cub Sports Editor|October 26, 2022

Sophomore Avery Hinkelman tries to find the back of the net during Tuesday’s game.

On Monday, Oct. 17, Archie Williams girls varsity water polo made a splash at Tamalpais High School. The battle between the Falcons and the Hawks led to a 6-4 victory for Archie Williams, who remain undefeated in the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL). With an overall record of 15-4 and MCAL record sitting at 7-0, the Falcons are comfortably tied for first in standings with the Redwood High School Giants.

The Falcons flew right into the game, scoring the first goal only one minute and 21 seconds after the first whistle. The Hawks came soaring back, scoring back-to-back goals in the first quarter to bring the score to 2-1.

As the second quarter began, Archie Williams scored to knot the score at 2-2. The Falcons had many more strong offensive possessions, getting six shots on goal, but were unable to score again. At half, the score was 2-2.

To start halftime, sophomore Avery Hinkelman attacked the goal, resulting in another goal for the Falcons. Archie Williams created a comfortable lead, scoring another goal to end the third quarter with a score of 4-2.

Archie Williams defenders work to block a shot from a Tam forward. (Carolyn Morris)

The Falcons continued to add to their lead and scored two more goals early in the fourth quarter to make the score 6-2. The Hawks made a final push, scoring two more goals with seconds left in the game. The final score was 6-4, adding to the Falcons’ undefeated MCAL season.

Archie Williams head coach Mathew Swanson praised the Falcons’ defense. He was impressed that the Falcons managed to hold the Hawks to only four goals.

“Anytime you give up four goals an entire game, that means you play great defense,” Swanson said.

Senior captain Lucy Hinkelman is confident in the team’s ability to succeed in the upcoming MCAL playoffs. Lucy credits much of their achievements to the community they have built.

“I think it’s really easy for everyone to feel comfortable and confident in their abilities in the water because everyone’s already comfortable around each other outside of the water. So for younger players, like just making sure that they feel a part of that community,” Lucy said.

Sophomore Mila Rendic looks to make a play against a Tam defender. (Carolyn Morris)

The girls varsity water polo team has many young players who have stepped into prominent positions on the team. Sophomore Avery Hinkelman hopes for a strong performance in the playoffs.

“We know we’re a strong team. We have the ability to win. We just have to put our minds to it and really show off our potential. You know, we’re a really young team, so it’d be a huge accomplishment if we could pull off this dub. We’re undefeated this season, so I’m just hoping to end the season with no loss,” Avery said.

The Falcons now look ahead to their next game Wednesday, Oct. 19, against Redwood High School. The Falcons will dive into their home pool to battle the Giants for the number one rank in the upcoming MCAL playoffs.