The local water polo scene is heating up as three high-performing programs make their mark in CIF Southern Section playoffs. The Murrieta Valley Nighthawks, Hemet Bulldogs, and Elsinore Tigers are battling through semifinals week, each with paths that lead one giant step closer to championship titles.
The Murrieta Valley Nighthawks, competing in Division 2, are riding the momentum of their dynamic playoff push. After a first-round bye, the Nighthawks secured decisive victories against Dana Hills, 13-6, in the second round and Redondo Union, 10-8, in the quarterfinals. With these wins under their belts, the Nighthawks are set to face El Segundo on February 18 in the semifinals. A win will secure them a ticket to the finals at Mt. San Antonio College on February 22. Their side of the bracket remains fierce with El Toro and Downey also aiming for the title. Focused and determined, Murrieta Valley looks ready to continue their dominance in these high stakes matches.
Hemet Bulldogs are also turning heads with their progress in Division 5. With a playoff record of 15-11, Hemet has battled through an intense series of matches. Beginning with a 9-5 victory over Foothill Ranch in the first round, they edged past Diamond Bar with an 8-7 win in the second round and sailed through the quarterfinals with a 9-6 win over West Covina. Their upcoming semifinal against Santa Paula on Tuesday, Feb. 18, brings tremendous excitement. Fullerton and El Dorado compete on the other side of the bracket, promising an intense and competitive finish leading up to the finals on February 22.
While Murrieta Valley and Hemet are making impressive runs, the Elsinore Tigers are turning heads on an unprecedented level. Competing in Division 3, the Tigers have etched their name into history by securing a place in the semifinals for the first time. With a stellar 24-1 record, Elsinore has dominated their opponents this season, outscoring them by a combined total of 384-101 across 25 games. Their offensive power was on full display during their quarterfinal win against Pasadena Poly, where they routed the opposition 22-10 to advance further.
Senior Raygan Carroll once again led the charge, scoring eight goals with incredible precision. Carroll, who has already committed to Cal State Northridge, reflected fondly on her final season, saying, “This team really is something else. The balance between seniors and freshmen has made this season unforgettable.” Her leadership, combined with standout performances from freshmen such as Addisyn Dwelley and goalkeeper Bella Drake, highlights a program that blends experience with fresh talent.
Co-coaches Rachel Carroll and Audra Woods expressed pride in how the season is unfolding. Coach Carroll spoke about how recent playoff reconfigurations created an ideal path for her team. “The changes were chaotic, but everything aligned perfectly for us,” she remarked. Woods joined the program after coaching with Murrieta Mesa and Vista Murrieta.
Elsinore continues their playoff campaign on Tuesday, Feb. 18, when they host La Canada in the semifinals. With three consecutive home games providing stability and support, the Tigers look to rally both their school and community for this critical match. A win would land them in their first-ever CIF Southern Section final, setting the stage at Mt. San Antonio College against either Flintridge Sacred Heart or Long Beach Poly on Saturday, Feb. 22.
The performances of all three teams—Murrieta Valley, Hemet, and Elsinore—highlight the exceptional level of talent and dedication within the local water polo scene. For the players, coaches, and fans alike, this playoff season represents not only a chance at glory but a moment to celebrate the spirit of the game and their communities.
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