Bellevue Wolverines Make Waves D1 Jamboree to Kick Off 2025 Season
The Bellevue Wolverines Boys’ Water Polo team made a powerful statement to open their season at the Washington State D1 Jamboree on Saturday, September 6th. Competing in a series of shortened two-quarter, 30-minute matches, the Wolverines faced off against Newport, Kennedy Catholic, and Mercer Island High Schools—emerging undefeated and showcasing depth, discipline, and determination.
Game 1: Bellevue vs. Newport – Defensive Masterclass
Bellevue opened the game with momentum, winning the sprint and converting a 5-meter penalty to take an early 1-0 lead. They followed up with another quick goal, going up 2-0. They continued their responds with precision and poise, scoring on their third possession and igniting a scoring streak that ended the first quarter 7-0.
In the second half, Bellevue slowed the pace, rotated the bench, and gave all players time in the water. The defense was relentless the entire game, allowing only seven shots on goal and recording at least six steals. The Wolverines closed out the game with a commanding 9-0 victory.
Game 2: Bellevue vs. Kennedy Catholic – A Nail-Biter
Kennedy Catholic proved to be a tougher opponent, pushing Bellevue into a back-and-forth battle. Kennedy won the sprint, but Bellevue struck first, going up 1-0 in the opening minute. The teams traded turnovers and goals, with Bellevue pulling ahead 4-2 late in the first quarter. Kennedy responded with a 5-meter goal and a counterattack score to tie it 4-4. Bellevue capitalized on a 6-on-5 opportunity to take a 5-4 lead into halftime.
The second quarter was a defensive grind, with both teams struggling to convert. Kennedy tied the game twice, including a backhand from set to make it 6-6. Bellevue regained the lead with another exclusion goal, but Kennedy answered again, tying it 7-7 with very little time left on the clock. In a dramatic finish, Bellevue stole the ball from the goalie and scored in the final moments to secure an 8-7 win.
Game 3: Bellevue vs. Mercer Island – Redemption and Control
In a rematch of last season’s finale, Bellevue came out focused and aggressive. Winning the sprint, they earned an exclusion and scored on the first possession. Strong defense and smart ball movement led to a 3-0 lead by the end of the first quarter, capped by a field block.
Mercer Island won the second quarter sprint but couldn’t capitalize. Bellevue extended the lead to 4-0 before Mercer Island scored their first goal with a backhand from set. Bellevue responded with another exclusion goal and added two more scores to finish the game 7-2.
A Statement Start to the Season
With three wins and standout performances across the board, the Bellevue Wolverines have set the tone for a promising season. Their ability to adapt, rotate players, and execute under pressure makes them a team to watch this season.
