By Robby Pratl ‘22

The Crusader Water Polo Team competed in a tournament in Fremd, Illinois over the past couple of days. The Crusaders posted a record of 2-6 with the two wins coming in games against the Lincoln Way East Griffins and the Prospect Knights. The losses came in games against Conat, Glenbrook North, Deerfield, Loyola Academy, Naperville Central, and Palatine.

As the water polo regular season nears to an end All-Sectional senior Jack Byrne said, “I was given the opportunity to take younger players under my wing. I always try to help them in any way possible.”

Although posting a 4-17 overall record, if young players listen to Byrne, with guidance from coaching staff and Jack Byrne, the aquatic Crusaders will be elite in no time, “Coach Mulcrone is now a great coach and mentor and I try to be like him in any way, and even wear his number, 4.”

With lots of talent from the underclassmen and amazing coaching staff, it is only a matter of time until Brother Rice Water Polo returns to its tradition of being one of the best programs in the state.

Sixth-seeded Brother Rice will take on the 11th seeded Solorio Academy in the first round of the IHSA Tournament on Thursday in the Lyons Township Sectional.

“I feel good, we’ve been playing great and I know we have a chance to make a good run.” said Byrne going into the playoffs.

Make sure to go out and support your swimming Crusaders as they brace for battle for battle at Lyons Township!