Coach Gates: "We Have a Clear Vision of What We Want to Achieve"

As the new season approaches, Coach Lucy Gates is confident about her team's potential and the direction of Miramar's aquatics program. After a strong showing last year, Gates believes her squad is poised for even greater success this season.

Setting Up for Success

When asked about the team's preparation for the upcoming season, Coach Gates couldn't be more enthusiastic. "Things are set up great for success this year as a team," she shares. "I have two amazing assistant coaches returning for their second season, we have a solid roster size, and we've worked out as a team all summer. We're excited to see how far we can go this season!"

The continuity in the coaching staff and the commitment from the players during the off-season have built a strong foundation. With this level of preparation, Gates feels her team is ready to take on any challenge.

A New Era for Miramar Aquatics

This season marks the beginning of a new chapter for Miramar's aquatics program. The college board's approval of men's and women's swimming as part of the intercollegiate athletics program is a significant milestone. "The new era of Miramar aquatics looks very promising!" Gates says with excitement. "Our College Board approved the addition of Men's and Women's Swimming to our intercollegiate athletics, which will help complement our existing water polo programs. We're looking forward to further building our now complete aquatics program and becoming a dominant force within the PCAC!"

Closing the Gap with the Top Teams

Last season, Miramar faced off against the state champions in the SoCal Regional Playoffs, losing 6-14 after a competitive first half. However, Gates believes this year's team is better equipped to close the gap. "We lost to the state champions 6-14 in the SoCal Regional Playoffs last season, with a competitive score of 5-7 at halftime," she reflects. "With our returners already having a season under their belt together, combined with the added depth of our strong freshmen class, we're in a better place than we were last year to face off against the top team."

Aiming for Back-to-Back Conference Titles

Coach Gates is optimistic about the team's chances in both the conference title race and the playoffs. "I'm very excited about this year's team!" she exclaims. "We have almost all our starters back for a second season, and some very strong freshman recruits. If we work hard, come together as a team, and all have a growth mindset, our chances of a back-to-back conference title will be strong. For playoffs, our goal is to just make it further than we did last year."

Returning Players and Freshman Talent

One of the most exciting aspects of this season is the return of last year's players, who now bring more experience and leadership to the team. "I'm excited about all our returners!" Gates says. "Since we were in the unique position of everyone being an athletic freshman on the team last year (having not had a team in 2022), all these athletes had to figure it out together. Because of this, it's made them come back with greater leadership, discipline, and focus this year."

Gates is equally enthusiastic about the new recruits. "From what I've seen over Summer, all our freshmen are going to bring something unique and special to our program this year," she notes, highlighting the fresh energy and talent these newcomers will add.

A New Season, A New Mindset

Heading into her second season, Coach Gates feels a sense of responsibility and purpose that differs from last year. "It feels very different," she admits. "Last season was my first year taking over the Miramar program, and I felt like we had nothing to lose! Heading into this season now, we have a title to defend and a clear vision of what we want to achieve."

Gates also recognizes the importance of academics and plans to improve in this area. "Last year, although we were very successful in the pool, we were not as successful in the classroom as a team," she acknowledges. "This year, a big focus of ours is on academics, which will include diligently attending study hall each week, having more grade check-ins throughout the season, and improving our overall team GPA."

An Invitation to Fans

As the season approaches, Gates has one final message for fans. "I would say come watch one of our home conference games and check out our beautiful aquatic facility!" she says. "Wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen!"

With a solid roster, dedicated coaching staff, and a clear vision for the future, the Miramar aquatics program is ready to make waves this season. Under Coach Gates' leadership, the team is not only aiming for success in the pool but also striving for excellence in every aspect of their collegiate experience.