The Acalanes High School boys’ water polo team enters the 2025 season with renewed energy and high expectations. After several years of steady rebuilding, the Dons are primed for a breakthrough year—one built on discipline, resilience, and relentless work in and out of the pool.

Since June, the team has been training before sunrise, holding 6:30 a.m. practices three days a week and supplementing those sessions with water polo-specific weight training twice a week over summer break. That commitment has forged a squad hungry to prove itself as one of the Bay Area’s toughest competitors.

“This is a group that doesn’t back down from the work,” said Head Coach Nick Jordan. “They’ve been pushing themselves since school ended, and they’re excited to finally test themselves under the lights.”

The Dons’ unofficial season openers came earlier this month, starting with the spirited annual alumni games on August 16, where current players clashed with former standouts in front of a lively crowd. Scrimmages throughout August gave the team additional opportunities to sharpen tactics and build chemistry.

Now, the real action begins. Acalanes will officially open its season tonight—Wednesday, August 27—at the Acalanes Aquatic Center, also known as The Beast, when they host the rival Clayton Valley Ugly Eagles. 

With a foundation of early mornings, hard work, and team unity, the Dons are determined to make 2025 a season to remember—and it all starts tonight. Come cheer on the Dons—JV tip-off is at 6:00 p.m., followed by Varsity at 7:00 p.m. at Acalanes’ Steve Heaston Aquatic Center (The Beast)!