Written by Aaron Cheng '16
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) spoke with senior Ashleigh Bandimere (AB) of the women's water polo team about her career as a Bronco and the outlook for the upcoming season.
SCB: When did your interest in water polo begin and why did you decide to continue your career as a Bronco?
AB: I hung out at the pool almost every day over summer when I was young, and the water polo team practiced right after free swim. The coach saw a couple of my friends and me swimming and asked us to come to a practice. I went and thought I was going to die because it was so hard, but I was hooked and kept going back. I stayed in love with the sport all through high school and I knew I had to continue playing in college, and Santa Clara offered a great opportunity for me to do that.
SCB: With the team consisting of so many younger players can you give us a glimpse into the team's dynamic?
AB: It's been an adjustment since we lost some strong seniors last year, including our starting hole set and goalie, but I think that we all learned a lot from those players that will translate to this year. Our team is composed of really hard workers, and I have no doubt that everyone will step up and fill the roles that need to be filled.
SCB: What helps you and the team remain focused for the upcoming season after such a long offseason?
AB: Personally, my competitiveness keeps me focused. Even when we don't have games, I'm always thinking about what I can do to make myself better for when games start. I think that's probably true for most of my team too. Also, each of us is expected to come back in shape and ready for season by the rest of the team, and this accountability keeps us focused.
SCB: Which opponent do you look forward to facing this year and why?
AB: LMU is the obvious answer for me. They are one of our reoccurring rivals, and last season we lost to them in the conference semifinals. It was a great game but a frustrating loss, and I can't wait to have another chance to beat them.
SCB: Looking back at your time as a Bronco, are there any experiences that stand out the most?
AB: Last year's whole season was a highlight for me. We upset San Diego State and University of Michigan, and snapped a 30 game losing streak against UC Davis, all of which earned us a top 20 national ranking. It was a really special year for the team and made me proud to be a part of the water polo program and to be a Bronco.
