Second-Half Surge Propels Varsity Water Polo to Victory Over Ranked River Rats
By Jason Morris | Apr 14, 2026 9:17 PM
In a gritty display of defensive prowess and second-half adjustments, the Varsity girls water polo team secured a statement 5-2 victory against the #9 ranked Ann Arbor Huron River Rats. The matchup started as a defensive stalemate. Heading into halftime, the team found themselves trailing 2-1, struggling to break through Huron’s defensive line. However, the second half told a completely different story. The defense locked down, and the offense ignited for four unanswered goals, completely shutting out the River Rats in the final two periods. Key Performers The scoring effort was a balanced clinical display: • Gabi Rudolph & Elise Hugg: Both notched 2 goals apiece to lead the offensive charge. • Brooke Paddock: Added a crucial goal to help seal the win. • Ruby (Goalie): Put on a masterclass in the net with 15 saves, while also acting as a playmaker with several key assists. JV Secures Thrilling One-Goal Win The success continued at the Junior Varsity level, where the team walked away with a narrow 6-5 win. The highlight of the match was Alice Thiel, who made her first career start in goal. Thiel proved she was up to the challenge, recording a handful of spectacular saves to preserve the lead and secure the JV victory. It was a banner day for the program, proving that this team has the stamina and the depth to compete with the top-ranked programs in the state.

