Senior water polo captain and goalie Spencer Williams knows how to lock down the cage.
Williams was named one of San Diego’s top players to watch for the 2023 season by The San Diego Union Tribune, and he’s proven that to be true.
Coronado Coach Jesse Smith, a five time Olympian and 2008 silver medalist, said that Williams’ exceptional skills at the net are paired with his ability to lead the team and manage the defense.
Started playing sophomore year
With this strong list of accolades, one may assume Williams started the sport pretty young.
But he actually first began playing water polo his sophomore year and has accelerated ever since.
Prior to that, Williams claims he was a “water kid,” competing on the swim team which gave him the fundamentals of being in the pool.
His decision to play water polo launched a full speed ahead mentality, as he continues to play the sport year round through different clubs.
“That’s kind of why I accelerated so quickly. It’s because I’ve been super focused on the game.”
-Spencer Williams, goalie for the CHS water polo team.
“That’s kind of why I accelerated so quickly,” Williams said. “It’s because I’ve been super focused on the game.”
Williams also attributed his knowledge at the goal to the techniques he learned from a great goalie coach he had when he first started playing.
Leadership beyond the pool
For his senior year, Williams is a captain alongside senior Luke Machin and junior Ryan Mondzelewski.
“Spencer Williams is an exemplary teammate and captain,” Smith said. “His leadership qualities extend beyond the pool, where he inspires and motivates the team. His strong work ethic and positive attitude have a significant impact on our team dynamic.”
As a goalie, Williams carries extra leadership responsibilities.
Smith said that in addition to his skills in front of the net, Williams needs to read the game, guide the defense and keep up team morale in difficult moments.
And Williams rises to that challenge.
“Water polo is a very fast moving sport, so I have to make decisions for defenses and what plays I want to run because there are a lot of defenses to counter certain offenses.”
-Spencer Williams, goalie for the CHS water polo team.
“Water polo is a very fast moving sport,” Williams said. “So, I have to make decisions for defenses and what plays I want to run because there are a lot of defenses to counter certain offenses.”
He said his eye for the game is a combination of his dedication to water polo year round for these past two years and watching a lot of film.
Goal to build on strengths
The water polo team has a 7-7 record as of Oct. 6.
Smith said the team will be focusing on defensive strategies and maintaining strong communication in the pool for upcoming matches.
Smith said the team’s primary goal for the rest of the season is to build on their strengths, improve on their weaknesses and make a strong push for the CIF playoffs.
“We’ve seen great teamwork and dedication from many, and it’s been a collective effort that has contributed to our success,” Smith said.
