The562’s coverage of aquatic sports in Long Beach in 2025-26 is sponsored by Watersafe Swim School.
It’ll be practically a brand new squad when the Long Beach Poly boys’ water polo team takes this pool this year.
After posting a 15-9 record last year, 10th-year head coach Ishmael Pluton expects several new and young faces to step up following the graduation of a strong senior class. Leading the group will be the team’s two seniors, Townsend Kato and goalie Jacob Churchill, who will look to provide key experience.
“Kato is the veteran on the squad. He has been on the varsity team since his sophomore year,” Pluton said. “He brings calm and steady leadership to the team. Churchill is our goalie and was a backup to Sean Kerry last year on varsity, but he’s eager and ready to fill those shoes in the role of starting varsity goalie.”
Pluton expects a big year out of center guard Aiden Greenwood, who is another important returner as just a sophomore.
“Greenwood came in as a 9th grader and immediately found his way into the varsity starting line-up,” said Pluton. “ This year is his moment to fill a bigger and more important role on the team. I’m excited to see how he improves this season. He is a joy to coach and is always learning and adapting. You’ll see some big things out of him this season as a result of those qualities.”
Last year, the Jackrabbits took their only loss of league play to Wilson and finished in second place in the Moore League with a 4-1 record. Pluton says speed and team play will be the key in his squad finding success in the pool this year.
“We are focused on being quick on the counters and being good at moving the ball,” he said. “If we can control the pace of all our games this season, keep the gas pedal to the floor, you are sure to see a solid Jackrabbit team.”
The Jackrabbits are still searching for their first win through their non-league schedule after a pair of recent losses in their 8th annual Long Beach Water Polo tournament this past weekend. They’ll open league play against Jordan on Sept. 23.
