This past weekend, Pioneer men’s water polo team went 3-1 in the East Grand Rapids tournament, beating East Grand Rapids, Rockford, and Huron. The only setback was a loss to Hudsonville in an overtime shootout. 

Pioneer, who entered the tournament third in the state, beat fourth ranked Rockford 13-3: a win senior co-captain Zach Edwards was pleased about. 

“I was surprised at how well we played,” said Edwards. “Our defense came out really strong. Our starting line allowed one goal the entire game.”

Despite losing the game, Edwards appreciated the Hudsonville team. 

“Even though we ended up losing in a shootout, it was one of the most fun games I’ve ever played,” he said. “The other team was really nice. We were talking after halftime as we were going between benches. I was fist bumping. They were just awfully nice. Normally, that never happens.”

Senior Alex Farmer led the Pioneers with four goals against Hudsonville. He says that despite the mistakes in the game, the Pioneer’s play bodes well for the future.

“We had some great moments in the game but unfortunately made a couple crucial mistakes in the dying seconds of the game,” said Farmer. “Our hard work in practice is starting to show during our games, and I am excited to continue to improve and solidify our gameplay in the coming weeks as we continue to prepare and develop for the postseason.”

Since the tournament, Pioneer is tied for second with Skyline in the state, behind Hudsonville. 

Pioneer will play Skyline this Wednesday at home at 7 p.m.