JSerra High School’s dominance in Southern Section boys’ water polo, led by standout Ryder Dodd, has been disrupted as the team seeks to defend its title without its star player this season. With Dodd now playing for the U.S. Olympic team, the Lions will have to rely on new players to maintain their top ranking in Southern California.
Coach Brett Ormsby will be looking to goalie Jonas Ransford, who was a starter on last year’s undefeated team, to anchor the defense. The team also has junior Tyler Anderson, a towering presence in the pool, who will be a key player in the upcoming matches.
While JSerra remains a contender, other teams like Harvard-Westlake, Newport Harbor, and Oaks Christian are also vying for the top spot. Harvard-Westlake, led by Otto Stothart and Collin Caras, has come close to defeating JSerra in the past. Newport Harbor, with transfers Lucca Van Der Woude and Santino Rossi joining returning players like Connor Ohl and Luke Harris, will also be a formidable opponent.
Oaks Christian, with top player Cam Kocur and newcomer Wyatt Williamson, is expected to make a strong showing this season as well. With the addition of Hall of Fame coach Rich Corso to work with the goalies, the team is looking to make its mark in the league.
As the teams go head-to-head in tournament and nonleague matches leading up to the Open Division playoffs, the competition for the top spot in Southern California promises to be intense and unpredictable. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and strong performances from the talented players on each team.
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