Dylan Lynch '16
With her productive freshman season under her belt, sophomore Cathy Cantoni (CC) continues to improve and make an impact on the women's water polo team. Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) had a chance to talk with Cantoni as the regular season winds down.
SCU: After a strong freshman season last year, how has that experience helped you coming into this season?
CC: With a year of experience under my belt, I felt stronger and more confident coming into this season. My skills have improved and I am a more versatile player. I have learned so much from the class that graduated last year and I continue to learn from my teammates this year.
SCU: What is your main goal for this season?
CC: My goal for the rest of the season is to play strong defense. Defense comes first; a team can have a great offensive game, but if they don't have good defense, it's hard to win. Our team has a lot of great offensive and defensive players and I want to contribute as much as I can to our success.
SCU: Do you have any matches in particular that you're looking forward to?
CC: I'm looking forward to our LMU game this year. There has always been a bit of a rivalry between our schools and this year we have the home pool advantage. We have all been working hard and I think we all want to win this one.
SCU: How do you manage the balance of school and Division I athletics?
CC: In order to balance my schoolwork with water polo, I have to stay very organized and plan ahead. I also try to get as much sleep as I can. That being said, I am not always very organized and sometimes I don't get very much sleep. In those cases, 20 minute naps and tea help.
SCU: Do you have any superstitions or habits regarding water polo?
CC: For every single game, I tie my cap in a double knot. It doesn't feel right if it's tied any other way. I also like to warm up with everyone on either my left or right side. I like to be able to see my whole team; I'm not sure why but that is how I have always liked it.
