Photo Credit: Eric Evans

Alex Gow is one of two sophomore starters on the Boys' Varsity Waterpolo Team.

Sophomore Alex Gow began playing water polo in seventh grade, and three years later, he holds the most important position in the pool for a Menlo-Atherton team that seeks success in the CCS playoffs. The 14-year-old, one of only two sophomore starters on varsity, plays goalie for the Bears.

Alex began playing water polo for a club team called SOLO, which was held at Menlo-Atherton’s pool, coached by M-A’s boys’ head coach, Jim Bega. Thrown into the goalie position, Alex claims, “I used to be fat, I guess that played a part in [becoming goalie].” Since then, Gow plays as often as he can. Saying he “loves the game”; the goalie gets in the pool as “frequently as possible.” Alex trained extensively over the summer in order to be prepared for the upbeat varsity tempo.

Because former senior Nick Beltramo graduated last year and senior Jack Moran goes to a boarding school in Costa Rica, Alex received his debut as only a sophomore. He began the season slowly, but has blocked 214 shots, midseason and allowed only 123 goals in 24 games. This has led the Bears to a 14-11 overall record.

Only a sophomore on a varsity team, Alex says, “it feels great. I am glad I have the opportunity to get this kind of great experience, and I feel it is a great life opportunity as well as a water polo opportunity. Coach Bega teaches us how to grow up, not only how to play great water polo.” Alex is also very grateful for his family’s support, saying that he “owes a lot to my mom and dad for paying for my water polo training and taking all the time to give me rides back and forth from the pool and tournaments.” Alex’s father has even flown down to San Diego for water polo tournaments to support his son.

With two more years to look forward to, Alex Gow seems to be the goalie of the future for the Bears. Although very talented, Alex still thinks he can improve. Look for this kid to be playing water polo in college and beyond.