The562’s coverage of aquatic sports in Long Beach in 2026-27 is sponsored by Watersafe Swim School.
The562’s coverage of Lakewood Athletics is sponsored by J.P. Crawford, Class of 2013.
The Lakewood boys’ water polo program is in search of some stability, and the Lancers hope they’ve found it with Kamryn Hastings taking over as their fourth coach in as many years.
“I want to bring more water polo culture to Lakewood,” Hastings said. “I am really trying to grow our program to spread my love for water polo with many kids. My biggest goal is to always foster a positive environment for all of my athletes. This gives everyone the ability to have an outlet from everything else, and truly enjoy themselves at practice and games while working hard as a team.”
With the amount of coaching changes the Lancers have been through in the last few years, the goal is for it to no longer constantly feel like a rebuilding year. The good news is that Lakewood is fresh off its first season at the Lancers’ beautiful new aquatics center and has a promising group of seniors and up-and-comers who should make this year’s transition much easier.
Leading the team with the most experience is center Justin Munoz, along with fellow senior attacker Michael Snow. Hastings mentioned both players as names he expects big seasons from, while the pair of captains have also taken on larger leadership roles to help guide some of the newer players around them.
“(Munoz) switches between center and playing up top and has an amazing shot and knowledge of the game. He has an amazing work ethic and gives full effort in all aspects of the sport,” Hastings said. “(Snow) is our only lefty in the field, so he is a key shooter and driver on our 4/5 side. He also plays amazing defense and communicates with the rest of the team to help our new lineup of players.”
Aiden Wendt will be another speedy offensive weapon to look out for, while much of Lakewood’s roster features a number of new faces, including freshman Colin Keogh at goalie. Hastings says the key for his younger players will be improving at the simple things.
“We’re just focusing on developing our fundamental skills as a team,” she said. “We have a large group of newcomers or first year varsity players, so we have spent the summer and season so far working on individual skill sets and how they can apply it to better the team.”
Lakewood will open the season at home against Jordan on Sept. 29.
