This past summer, the girls’ water polo team took an unforgettable journey across the globe to Greece. For about a week, the team traded the familiar pools of Morro Bay High School for the warm water of Glyfada, a coastal city near Athens. The trip was not only about competing, but also about discovering a new culture, meeting athletes from other parts of the world, and growing closer as a team.
The idea for the trip came from the team’s coach, with strong support from players’ families. Fundraising was essential to make this trip possible, and the athletes worked hard; they organized a garage sale, hosted a movie night at the Bay Theater, helped at local events, and even handed out coffee to cyclists. These creative efforts showed the team’s dedication and helped cover the costs of traveling abroad.
Each day in Greece was a balance between practice, competition, and exploring the country. Mornings began with an early breakfast followed by practices in the local pool. Afternoons were often dedicated to excursions, giving the athletes a chance to see Greek culture up close. They spent their evenings with matches against the local club teams, where the players experienced a different level of intensity. “The girls there reacted very quickly and played in a smart, calculated way,” said the senior and team member, Gianna Palmer. Competing internationally gave the team a fresh perspective and new skills to bring back home.
Despite the demanding schedule and summer heat, the trip was filled with fun moments. One highlight was visiting Glyfalda Beach, where the players met some local kids and went cliff jumping. Between games and sightseeing, there was time for laughter, swimming at the hotel pool, and late-night hangouts with the whole team. These moments created bonds that went beyond the pool. As senior Gianna Palmer said, “It was definitely a team bonding experience.”
The trip also came with challenges like the hot weather made training and matches tougher than expected. By the end of the week, the players had not only improved their water polo skills, but had also grown as individuals.
Looking back, the team’s journey to Greece was more than just a sports trip. It was a chance to represent their school abroad, test themself against international competition, and experience life in a different culture. The memories of practicing under the Mediterranean sun, competing in another country, and sharing the adventure will stay with them for a long time.
