The562’s coverage of aquatic sports in Long Beach in 2026-27 is sponsored by Watersafe Swim School.
The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly Athletics for the 2025-26 school year is sponsored by Former Jackrabbits Wendell “WoWo” Moe, Jr. & Tyson Ruffins.
The Long Beach Poly boys’ water polo team is primed for action this season under 11th-year head coach Ishmael Pluton, who battled a tough schedule last year with a young roster that continues to grow while upholding the program’s standard.
The Jackrabbits’ roster is led by a handful of juniors who have grown into bigger roles after establishing themselves as steady varsity contributors while still underclassmen. Three-year varsity attacker/guard Aiden Greenwood will lead the group as a natural leader, alongside fellow junior utility player Ryan Oatey, one of the team’s strongest outside shooters.
“(Greenwood) and (Oatey) are a very dynamic duo with strong varsity experience. They will be our foundation and rock both offensively and defensively throughout the season,” Pluton said.
Also on the attack will be junior Carlo Menes, a second-year varsity player who Pluton describes as the most creative player in the pool and another guy he’ll look to in big moments. Poly also has some promising young talent, including Benjamin Rocha, a left-handed freshman who has already become a strong addition to the team.
When it comes to the key for his talented young roster, Pluton says fundamentals and movement will be most important.
“We want to be a movement-based and counterattack team this year,” he said. “In order to be successful we need to be quick and handle the ball well. We need to earn, and more critically, convert 6-on-5 opportunities.”
Last year, the Jackrabbits finished third in the Moore League after a challenging non-league schedule, posting an 8-19 overall record before falling to Great Oak in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3 playoffs.
The Jackrabbits hosted their annual tournament this season and have already played a handful of competitive games this season, including wins over Trabuco Hills and La Serna. They’ll open their Moore League slate at home against Jordan on Sept. 22.
“We are always focused on what we can control,” Pluton said of the team’s goal this season. “We are much more progress-oriented than results-oriented. As long as we are continuing to work towards being the best, we can possibly be as a team, that will make the season a success.”
