Spotlight: Ariel Escalona Jacob

Ariel started playing water polo in the MWPA School league in grade 7, then joined Bushido Water Polo Club and subsequently Vortex when the two Winnipeg clubs merged. She is currently playing water polo for the McMaster Marauders in Hamilton while in her first year of their Humanities program. She was home for the holidays and we had an opportunity to catch up and ask how she is doing.

When and how did you get into water polo?

I started playing water polo with school league for Ecole River Heights in grade 7. Coach Tetrault was one of my favourite staff members at the school and proposed I give it a try. I always loved swimming, but competitive swimming was not appealing. I thought that this was the perfect compromise - and it was!

What is the best advice in water polo you have ever received?

Coach Brenden Jamieson (Pizey) taught us mental strategies to help keep us focused during a game even when things were not going well. I still to this day think of the word “Goldfish” when I start to feel myself thinking negatively during games. 

What water polo skill was the hardest to learn?

I struggled a lot with my bicycle at first but after lots of practice and help from coaches I quickly improved! 

If you could choose one superpower what would it be?

I would choose teleportation so I could easily see my family whenever I wanted.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I’m not yet sure yet, but I have been considering Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy. 

What hobbies do you enjoy outside of the pool?

My hobbies mainly include hanging out with friends. We have formed an intramural inner tube water polo team which I’m very excited for! 

Ariel in action a few years ago with Vortex

Tell us about playing for McMaster

I wanted to play in University as a way to meet new people; but also to stay active and in shape! When school started in September, they had several open tryouts for the team. We are in the pool for about seven and a half hours each week for practices and play approximately 15 games per season. The team had an amazing year that ended with a hard fought battle in the bronze medal match against Queens University. Although we placed fourth, I am so incredibly proud of all of my teammates and can't wait for next season!