Senior Jordan Raney plays water polo at the national level

Michael Lebbin
Staff Writer

Water polo is a sport that requires physical strength and skill. The Mira Costa girls water polo team is tough competition against other schools because of their high skill level. One player that truly stands out is senior Jordan Raney.

Raney plays varsity water polo and is part of the United States National team. She has made water polo a huge part of her life, sacrificing other aspects of her time in order to remain devoted to the sport.

“Being on two water polo teams definitely has its challenges. I travel a lot for games and practices so I often stay up late to finish my school work,” Raney said. “Having such a hectic water polo schedule teaches me to be organized and to manage my time well.”

Raney earned a varsity spot on the Costa team as a freshman and has been a starter every year.
“I started to play water polo four years ago and I have loved it ever since even if it eats up all my time, It is my passion,” Raney said.

Raney’s success could not be accomplished without the support of her teammates. Raney’s teammates have pushed her to play her best and encourage her throughout the difficult workouts.

“I practiced with Jordan all last year and she is truly amazing at her position and how she plays it.” sophmore varsity swimmer Annika Gilboy said. “All of her success is due to her hard work and dedication.”

Jordan has a very important position in water polo. She plays set, which is a position for the best or the strongest player on the team.

“Jordan has a huge responsibility as set because of the hard work you have to put in while playing that position,” Gilboy said.

Jordan hopes to pursue her dream of playing professional water polo when she gets older and her ultimate goal is to play on the US olympic team. She has worked hard for the last four years and believes it is time to move on to the next level of the sport.

“Jordan is a great leader and has continued to improve her game,” sophomore Adam Zaun said. “She has a real chance of playing at the professional level especially with such a great work ethic and attitude.”