You've probably heard the rumors about Canyon Crest Academy (CCA). Most people in San Diego assume it’s just a "brainiac" school where students trade sleep for GPAs and AP classes. But if you’ve ever stood on the deck at the Cove or watched a high-stakes match in the North County Conference, you know the truth is a lot more intense. The Canyon Crest Academy water polo team isn't just a group of smart kids who decided to go for a swim; they are a legitimate powerhouse that has been quietly dismantling the "nerd" stereotype for years.
Honestly, it’s kinda wild how much this program has grown. Back in the early 2010s, CCA was the new kid on the block, often overlooked by the established dynasties. Fast forward to 2026, and they are a constant threat in the CIF San Diego Section.
The Grit Behind the Grades
People expect CCA athletes to be polite. They expect them to play a "clean" game. While they definitely have the discipline you'd expect from a top-tier academic school, the Canyon Crest Academy water polo team plays with a level of physical aggression that catches opponents off guard.
Water polo is basically wrestling in a pool while trying to play soccer with your hands. It’s exhausting. At CCA, the culture is built on a specific type of mental toughness. When you’re used to grinding through five hours of homework after a three-hour practice, a fourth-quarter sprint doesn't seem so bad.
Recent Standouts and Coaching
The boys' team, currently led by Head Coach Noah Tiu, has seen some incredible runs lately. In late 2025, they were battling it out in the CIF SDS Division 1 playoffs. They had a massive win against Eastlake (17-11) and a nail-biter against Torrey Pines that didn't quite go their way, losing 8-9 in the final. That rivalry with Torrey Pines? It's real. It’s the kind of local "friendly" rivalry that ends with everyone exhausted and a few hidden bruises.
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Key players like Oriya Baruch, Gordon Marsh, and Bennett Gamache have been instrumental in keeping the Ravens in the conversation for a Division 1 title. On the girls' side, names like Amy Song, Justine Polkinghorne, and Amaya Lustig are the ones driving the engine. They've had a tough 2025-26 winter season, but the program's history of bouncing back—like their 2024 CIF championship win—shows they aren't going anywhere.
Why the "Ravens" Are Different
It’s not just about the wins. The Canyon Crest Academy water polo team operates in a unique environment. Unlike some schools that have their own massive on-campus aquatic centers, CCA has had to be resourceful. They share space, they travel, and they make it work.
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- Year-round commitment: Most of these kids aren't just playing for the school. They’re at Del Mar Water Polo Club or North County Cup throughout the off-season.
- Tactical Prowess: If you listen to Coach Tiu or the girls' coaching staff, the focus is often on "high-IQ" water polo. This means exploitation of the 6-on-5 advantage and extremely disciplined defensive rotations.
- Alumni Connection: Former players like Roland Yu (Class of 2015) and Yashwin Madakamutil (Class of 2021) actually come back to coach. That says something about the culture. You don't come back to your high school pool to help out if you didn't love the experience.
Navigating the CIF Landscape
If you're a parent or a student-athlete looking at the Canyon Crest Academy water polo team, you need to understand the stakes. This isn't a casual after-school club. The North County Conference is one of the most competitive in Southern California. You’re going up against schools like La Costa Canyon, Carlsbad, and Poway.
There's a common misconception that because CCA is a "choice" school, the athletics are secondary. That's a mistake. The girls' team snagged CIF titles in 2018 and 2024. The boys took home championships in 2018 and 2021. They aren't just participating; they are winning.
Actionable Insights for Aspiring Ravens
If you want to be part of this legacy, you can't just show up in August and expect to make the varsity roster. Here is what you actually need to do:
- Join a Club Early: If you aren't playing club polo by 8th grade, you're already behind. Look into local clubs like San Diego Shores or Del Mar.
- Focus on the "Eggbeater": It sounds simple, but the strength of your legs determines your height in the water. If you can't stay up, you can't shoot.
- Watch the Tape: CCA’s success is built on strategy. Start watching collegiate or Olympic-level matches to understand spacing and "driving" the lane.
- Balance is Key: You’re at CCA. The academic load is heavy. Learn to manage your time now, or the stress of the winter season will crush you.
The Canyon Crest Academy water polo team is a testament to what happens when you combine high intelligence with raw athletic grit. They’ve proven they can hang with the best in San Diego, and they’re only getting faster.
To get started, check the official Canyon Athletics website for the latest tryout dates and required physical clearance forms before the season begins. Reach out to the coaching staff early to express interest in the off-season conditioning programs.