Girls water polo
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, the girls water polo team celebrated Berkeley High School seniors Margaux Rocha, Juliet Distefano, Elena Samuels, and Izzy Zimmerman before playing an epic match against Castro Valley High School. Senior night commenced with girls varsity coach Logan Hennessy giving each senior a potted flower, along with personalized initial necklaces. The team then went on to play a tense but ultimately successful game, securing the win with a final score of 12-9.
Prior to the match, the team and their families gathered while Coach Hennessy praised each senior’s individual qualities. Once he was done, teammates ran to congratulate them with handmade signs.
The game was fast-paced from the very beginning, with both teams shooting successfully on goal.
Co-captains Samuels and Rocha noted the win was extra special for the team. “It was kind of unexpected, last year we came in second in the league to them,” Rocha said.
BHS junior Rea Horgan will remember these seniors for their spirit and kindness. “I love their positivity, I wish them all the best after they graduate,” Horgan said.
Boys water polo
For the BHS varsity boys water polo team, the pool represents countless hours of hard work, dedication, and unforgettable memories that have shaped their high school experiences.
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, the boys varsity team took on their last home game of the season against Castro Valley High School. BHS played their hardest, but lost with a final score of 2-14. Despite the unfortunate outcome, there was a strong sense of trust and connection within their team. Their energy and speed kept the audience thrilled and on edge.
Before the game began, families gathered on the campus green for a heartfelt ceremony honoring the seniors. It started with the families receiving flowers, followed by a dedicated speech commemorating the seniors’ accomplishments. The rest of the varsity squad surprised the seniors with posters featuring clever puns on their names — a senior night tradition.
“This program doesn’t give up, this program isn’t going to be pushed over, and we’re here for the long run,” Coach Alon Yoeli said, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination.
Girls field hockey
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, the BHS girls volleyball team played against Alameda High School. BHS junior Liliana Sanger read each senior’s name, along with what they plan to do after high school. The seniors then walked out with their family members through balloon arches.
Senior and team captain Osby Judd-Wade said, “Volleyball is a group effort, it takes a lot of team work and team collaboration.”
The Alameda hornets won the first set despite BHS’ strong efforts. For the second set, after strong teamwork and determination, BHS was in the lead in the early middle of the set and tied the match up. After solid defense and a very close third set, they pulled ahead and won the set. In the last set, after being tied the entire match, they pulled a tense win to end the season.
BHS senior and volleyball player Leah Green said, “I’m leaving a lot of people that I’ve built really strong relationships with, became friends with outside of volleyball as well. I think, though, that every chapter opens and closes. I’m very grateful for my experience on (BHS) volleyball, because of the great learning.”
Girls tennis
The score was tied 10-10 in the match tiebreaker. BHS seniors Maya Gearen and Sarah Marsh were only two points away from winning their doubles match against Castro Valley High School. Gearen stepped up to serve and after a short rally, the ball went into the net. The crowd erupted.
After another short exchange, Marsh slammed a crucial volley past her opponent, securing the win. The match ended on a high note, despite the 5-2 overall loss to Castro Valley.
“I’m both happy and sad. I’ve had a great season and a great time, but also it’s really sad that I’m not gonna get to play on the team anymore,” Marsh said. BHS senior Vera Ertel echoed this sentiment. “It’s a little bittersweet, but with college apps and school, tennis has been so stressful,” Ertel said, referring to the difficulty of balancing commitments.
Reflecting on the team culture, BHS senior Ezra Abarbanel said, “There’s been so much support and love for everyone throughout each game.” Other players also praised the culture of the team. “The seniors have done a great job of making a positive environment for tennis,” BHS senior Samantha Lopatin said.
