Girls water polo coach, Tim Herbertz, will leave the Fullerton team to coach the Mater Dei aquatics program. After 3 years of coaching at Fullerton, Herbertz will step down and boys water polo coach, Mike Varela, will take his place.

Since 2013, the girls water polo team has built their program under Herbertz. In 2015, six of the eight varsity players graduated, leaving 2 remaining teammates. 2016 embodied a fresh and uncertain year for the girls’ season because only 2 varsity players returned to the team.

Through his coaching, the girls varsity water polo went from losing games in season in 2013 (0-6), to competing more as a threat by their 2015 season (2-4). This year, the team expects many returners and hope co-captains, senior Hannah Officer and junior Kaya Ortega can epitomize his leadership.

Sophomore Esmeralda Ysguerra said she enjoyed having him as a mentor. “He was a good coach, but I’m glad he’s been given the opportunity to coach at a better school.”

Ysguerra said his coaching attributes to her team’s skills and progress.

Junior Hannah Cashin said it feels bittersweet to see him leave. “It’s sad to see him go because he was such a good coach, but it’s nice to see to him recognized for his abilities.”

Side by side, Coach Varela and Coach Herbertz have molded Fullerton’s water polo program. Herbertz has been a positive impact on not only the girls team, but the entire aquatics program.

Junior Samuel Dunner, on the boys varsity team said, “He will not be forgotten at Fullerton.”

Dunner said he thinks Coach Varela has been one of program’s biggest leaders and assets. Junior Jackie Perez agreed, saying the whole team is excited to add him to their program.

“Mike is great, I’m glad we have him!” said Jacque Perez.

Although Herbertz resigned and left his team saddened, Perez said knowing Coach Varela will support them provides comfort and places a stronger sense of confidence for their season.