The Acalanes Dons JV boys water polo team kept its momentum going with a 13–8 victory over College Park last Tuesday, October 20. The Dons combined timely scoring, strong defensive stands, and excellent work in the cage to earn the win, with contributions coming from across the lineup.

College Park struck first, taking advantage of an early exclusion to score with a man advantage. Acalanes responded with determined defense and quick offensive movement. Finn Butler helped turn the tide by setting up Colin Henitz for a goal, while Brady Pigeon battled through contact to find the back of the net. Johnny Endemann added a goal as the Dons began building their attack. Acalanes continued to generate chances, though College Park’s defense made the Dons work for each opportunity.

 

The second quarter saw Acalanes establish more control. Ryan Graff made several important saves in the cage, helping keep College Park’s scoring in check. On offense, crisp ball movement led to a goal from Spencer Salfen, who later converted on a breakaway. Colin added another finish after receiving a pass from Ryan, and the Dons’ defense worked hard to limit College Park’s opportunities. Acalanes carried a 6–2 lead into halftime.

The Dons continued to find their rhythm in the third quarter. Spencer scored off a pass from Ryan, and Brady followed with a goal after another well-placed delivery from the cage. Johnny added to the scoring, while the team continued to create opportunities through quick transitions and movement without the ball. College Park answered with goals of its own, but Ryan contributed another save before moving up the pool and scoring himself, helping Acalanes maintain a 10–4 advantage.

College Park made a push in the fourth quarter, finding the net on several possessions and testing the Dons’ defense. Acalanes answered with patience and timely finishes. Spencer scored with a shot that rolled past the goalie, and Johnny converted a five-meter penalty after driving toward goal and drawing the penalty. The Dons also capitalized on a rebound to add another goal, while Ryan came up with a key block late in the game. Despite College Park’s late pressure, Acalanes held on to secure the 13–8 victory.

The win reflected the Dons’ balanced effort: strong goalkeeping, defensive pressure, smart passing, and scoring contributions from multiple players. When College Park tried to close the gap, Acalanes continued to find answers and finished the game with a five-goal margin.

Another strong team win for the Dons—built on shared effort, timely stops, and a full roster ready to contribute.