Tucker leads his team in water polo

Splashing water, threatening opponents, yelling players, egg-beating legs, and blocking goals sounds like the a typical water polo game. Such an intense sport, needs a strong leader. Varsity Boy’s Water Polo Coach Duane Mcroy recognized Zachary Tucker as a star athlete.

“[Tucker is] a coach’s dream as [he] works hard and is willing to do whatever it takes to improve [himself] and the team. [He] leads the team in minutes played, goals, and guts,” Mcroy said.

Tucker, senior, didn’t believe his path in high school was going to involve water polo, but now he is a co-captain of the team alongside senior John Nash. Tucker wanted to play football but couldn’t because of a knee injury.

“I realized I loved the sport so I was like ‘screw it’. [I love] the intensity, the ability, that you have to think all the time it’s like playing chess,” said Tucker.

Tucker passionately spoke of his sport and how he leads his team. With warmth glowing from his eyes he said “whenever their spirits are down I raise them up. I want my team to succeed. I don’t want their feelings hurt, I want them up; to be mentally in it. I want [my team] to love the game.”

Tucker plays set or whole guard and has been playing for four years. He has been on varsity for three years and is planning to continue in college. Tucker keeps school at the top of his priorities.

“I always do school first,” Tucker said.

Teammates also notice Tucker’s driven attitude. Fellow player, sophomore Zane Warren stressed that Tucker is an encouraging, leading teammate:

“He encourages everyone, including incoming freshman. It’s not just a Zach show, it’s like everyone’s [show]. He’s an amazing player. He encourages us and whenever we need to get pumped up he’s the one to do it.”

Senior Nick Matteson also pointed out Tucker “gives everyone pointers since there are a lot of new freshman on the team and as a team captain he’s a really good leader.”