I watched my brother and his high school teammates wearing speedos and jumping crazily into the water.  I never thought I would try it.  It only took a few months and I was bitten by the water polo bug.     Water polo has become something much more than a sport to me.  It has taught me new things and helped me realize what I am truly capable of.  Water polo has not only taught me how to be a great athlete, but also commitment, determination, and motivation.  Through these few traits, I have been able to excel in the sport and be a leader on my team.  The ability to set goals and become determined to achieve them has allowed me to persevere and make my teammates and myself better.  My hope is through this mindset, I will be able to play water polo for a college that fits my academic needs.  I enjoy challenging myself with learning either new skills, or perfecting other skills, which I have yet to master.  I have infinite room to grow, and will continue to grow through my drive and determination.  As captain of my high school and club water polo teams, I have learned the importance of being a leader.  Not only am I able to lead the team in the water and control the game, but I also understand the value of brotherhood, and create a bond between the team.  Outside of the water, I am a compassionate, outgoing, sociable guy.  I can make friends easily and bond with most people that I meet.  This has made me able to easily create bonds and play with a variety of different players. I frequently play on different teams and travel around the U.S with athletes from different states and even countries. This allowed me to learn new types of play style and allowed me to meet new people from different places. My view of the game is what has allowed me to play and become an important part of every team.  I view water polo different from most because I am able to view the playing field and think of different outcomes and scenarios.  I like to play two steps ahead and play a smart game of water polo.  I have a lot of room to improve and grow, but my ability to be coached will allow me to continuously grow.  My coaches have always had an important part of my success, and have taught me to become the player and leader that I am today.