On January 28, 2026, the YLHS Women’s varsity water polo team faced Canyon High School for their final game of the season. Not only was it their last game, but it was also Senior Night, where the seniors were recognized for their athletic accomplishments and commitment to the team. Although the results–YL 9-11 Canyon– were not an ideal way to end the season,  the girls demonstrated immense perseverance and collaboration throughout the game. From the sidelines, parents and students were cheering on the Mustangs and kept the school spirit high for the entire night.

For the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd quarters, Canyon continuously trailed ahead of the Mustangs. It wasn’t until the 4th quarter that things started to take a turn. At the beginning of the quarter, the score sat at 4-7 with the Mustangs behind by only three points. The Mustangs locked down the defense and started rigorously attacking on offense, bringing the Mustangs to a tied score of 7-7. Thanks to the efforts of the entire team, Brooklyn Kozicki (#6), Kayla Nagel (#13), and Avery Russell (#2) were able to score multiple goals. Before the 4th quarter, Kozicki excelled on offense, scoring all four points. In the final minutes of the game, the Mustangs were winning 8-7, and it seemed like they might take the victory. The student section and parents sat in anticipation, nervously waiting for the timer to run out. Unfortunately, the Mustangs fell short, and Canyon gained the lead once again, ultimately winning 9-11. Despite the final score reflecting a loss for the Mustangs, this did not dim their spirits, as they had three wonderful seniors to celebrate that night.

Senior Night is an annual tradition celebrated by all sports at YLHS, and it is a dedicated moment to honor the seniors in a sport. For the 2025-2026 season, the women’s water polo team celebrated Precious Hoang, Siena Sweiss, and Giabella Reale, and all their accomplishments throughout their years in the program. Giabella Reale (12) said, “It’s so weird knowing that this is all over after today. It’s surreal, and I can’t wait to hop back  in and help my JV girls out.” During the celebration, the girls reflected on their time in the program and recounted their favorite memories with a smile on their faces. Siena Sweiss (12) commented, “It was really interesting to go through the dynamics of every person’s personality and be able to work with them not only outside of the pool but also in the pool.” When asked about her favorite memory, Precious Hoang (12) described her junior year, where they “went undefeated, and I was able to learn and grow with my team through different plays, and we got to work with each other.”

With the 2026 women’s water polo season coming to a close, the Mustangs ended with a 6-13 record. YLHS finished the season ranked #187 nationally and in California, and #26 in the Southern Section Division 5.