Friday, Nov. 25, 2011

Los Banos grad Howard earns first-team All-American in water polo

After earning first-team all-Coast Conference honors, Tournament MVP in the Coast Conference Tournament, first-team all-NorCal honors, former Los Banos High athlete Mallory Howard was named first-team JC All-American for Merced College water polo.

"She's one of the most intelligent players I've ever had," Merced College water polo coach Bill Halpin said. "She's a dream player to have, always asking questions and making adjustments."

It was Howard's second year as a water polo All-American. She was also All-American in swimming last spring.

Howard racked up 44 goals, 59 assists and 106 steals -- second in the state -- to help Merced to a 30-3 season. The Blue Devils finished fourth in the state.

"Because she's a smart player, she knows where the ball is going before it gets there. Her strong point is her defense -- she has long arms and she's a very fast swimmer."

Howard was one of three All Americans for the team, along with Stevie Wills, Katie Elam and Poni McGee (Coast Conference and NorCal Conference MVP and second-leading scorer in California).

The MC squad also included former LB player Jessica Witt, who scored 13 goals, assisted on 10 more and earned 14 steals off the bench.

Enterprise reporter David Witte can be reached at (209) 388-6565 or sports@losbanosenterprise.com.

Enterprise reporter David Witte can be reached at (209) 388-6565 or sports@losbanosenterprise.com.