With its team chemistry much improved after two tough seasons, the Diamond Bar varsity boys water polo team has sets its goal to win a league championship and qualifying for CIF in its third year.

“Being a new program, there was a lack of understanding as to what it took to compete against established programs,” head coach Alexander Matal said. “However, a few of our athletes committed to an off-season training regime in a club environment and those athletes now have the basic skills and experience to compete at a higher level.”

Last season, the team fell short of qualifying for CIF, finishing with a record of 14-15. However, the team did see major improvements from the previous season.

“When we first started, it was everyone’s first year and no one really knew what they were doing,” senior Mariani said, “But now we’re actively involved with club and go to practice at least once a week, which has helped greatly.”

The team practices for at least three hours a day in the pool, starting with conditioning, then individual drills and, finally, team drills and scrimmages. In addition, the team will be doing more tactical practices, now that the boys  understand the basics.

Defense is the main focus for improvement. However, senior Sebastian Houng, the main goalie and key defensive asset of the team, is still recovering from his injury.

“I hope to heal fast so I can play for most of this season,” Houng said. “I’m working on improving my shot accuracy and blocking.”

Over half the players on the team this season are seniors including veterans Dario Mariani, Kris Chang and Diego Hammond. In addition, there are five incoming varsity players. Hammond, one of the team’s greatest offensive threats, averaged 3.4 goals a game last season with above a 50 percent shot percentage. Mariani was integral to the team’s chemistry, dishing out 51 assists and averaging 1.5 goals a game.

In preparation, Mariani practiced during his trip to Croatia over the summer and Kris Chang practiced at a local water polo club. Hammond also participated in the National Junior Olympics.

“A few of our athletes committed to an off-season training regime in a club environment and those athletes now have the basic skills and experience to compete at a higher level,” Matal said.