Panthers Show Growth and Competitive Edge Throughout 2025 Season

The Chaffey College women's water polo team showed resilience and measurable growth throughout a demanding 2025 season that included matchups with several of the region's top programs. The Panthers averaged 8.5 goals per game while totaling 255 goals and 231 assists across 30 contests, demonstrating a balanced, fast-paced offensive identity. The team also had 675 shot attempts, finishing with an efficient 49.6% from the field, marking one of the program's strongest conversion rates in recent years. The depth of scoring across multiple positions allowed the Panthers to sustain pressure against some of the region's most aggressive defenses.

Freshman attacker Sarah Alexander led the frontline effort with a standout debut season, scoring 70 goals while adding 38 assists, 50 steals, and a 54.7% shooting percentage, the team's best percentage among high-volume shooters. Fellow freshman Elise Camarena followed as a dynamic two-way presence, delivering 53 goals, 33 assists, and 47 steals, while converting nearly half of her shooting attempts at 49.5%. Sophomore attacker Mikaela Hernandez added balance and playmaking with 21 goals, 30 assists, and 36 steals, offering consistent production in the half-court and counterattack. Freshman driver Kaylee Pfalmer emerged as another reliable contributor, finishing with 25 goals, 37 assists, and a team-high 47 steals while appearing in 29 matches.

Defensively, the Panthers showed clear improvement, collecting 297 steals and repeatedly disrupting opposing possessions. Chaffey also drew 117 exclusions, creating consistent power-play opportunities and extending offensive possessions throughout the season. The team's ability to generate turnovers, coupled with disciplined rotations, kept them competitive in several close contests.

In the cage, the Panthers relied on a productive and experienced goalkeeper duo. Sophomore Annemarie Marcucci posted 85 saves across 16 appearances with a 49.4% save rate, adding six wins and providing steady leadership in high-pressure defensive possessions. Freshman goalkeeper Savannah Shaw saw the bulk of the minutes in the cage, appearing in 24 matches and recording 180 saves with a 46.3% save rate, while logging six wins of her own. Together, the pair combined for 265 saves, delivering strong coverage in the cage and guiding Chaffey's defensive unit throughout the season.

With key players set to return, along with increased defensive cohesion and improved offensive efficiency, the Panthers are well-positioned to build on this season's momentum. The foundation set in the 2025 season, marked by balanced scoring, growing defensive pressure, and emerging talent, propels the Panthers into the 2026 season with grit and renewed confidence.