EA Water Polo Players Selected for USA Olympic Development Program

Five Episcopal Academy water polo players have been chosen for Northeast Zone teams with the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program.

"ODP serves as the primary feeder system for the USA Water Polo Youth, Cadet, and Development National Teams," explained Water Polo Coach Max Kelly '06. "This pipeline is how EA alumni and Olympian Jovana Sekulic '21 eventually made the USA Women's National Team."

Tyler Mantash '26, Talia Thomas '25, and Siena Scungio '27 were selected for the Youth Team. Ben McCarley '28 will compete on the Cadet Team. Alexandra McCarley '30 was selected for the Development Team.

"'Going into tryouts, I never expected to make the team," explained Tyler. "I showed up simply for the learning opportunity, and the chance to practice with top players from the zone. Playing alongside and against some of the best players in the country is something I never thought I would get to experience. Throughout my water polo journey, my primary goal has always been to improve myself as both a player and a teammate in order to better the EA team. 

"Making the ODP regional team is a very remarkable experience," said Talia. "As someone who values water polo as a major part of life, it is an honor to represent USA and this tournament. ODP is a really cool opportunity to travel and wear the red white and blue and contribute to a program that leads to finding the best players in the world for the U.S. national team."

"The ODP program has opened the door to new opportunities, friendships, and coaching," said Ben.

" was elated to learn that I was chosen to play on one of the North East teams," reflected Siena. "I am extremely excited to play hard and to see if I can positively make a mark in the pool and I am thankful to my coaches who have taught me this game and fostered a love for the sport. I hope to represent my teammates and EA well."

"To make the ODP team I had to travel to three new cities and I enjoyed seeing the landscapes. I also enjoyed meeting the new experienced coaches. Making the ODP team has opened new doors for my water polo journey and opportunities to grow," said Alexandra.

All participants will compete for a national position in their age groups. The Northeast Zone includes players from Maine to Virginia. The Regional Zone Championships will be held in Dallas, Texas, Jan., 17-19.

"I am grateful for the coaches at EA, my water polo club, and my family's support," remarked Alexandra. "They have all supported me to help me make this team. I am looking forward to going to the Dallas tournament!"