For the 2011 North Penn men’s water polo team, the season ended the way it started, with a loss to Cumberland Valley. However, anyone who followed this team could see a complete metamorphosis over the season.

The Knights finished the season with a 22-6 record, including an undefeated league record, and the title of State Runner Up.  However, the run into the state playoffs surprised many.

 “Both coaches thought we’d do well but not this well,” assistant coach Todd Gibson said. The opportunity for the state championship was difficult to foresee after a 13-3 loss to Cumberland Valley in the season opener.

Despite a great deal of talent on the team, the Knights ability to work as one unit led to their success.

“We had some superstars but could gel as a team” said Gibson. “The Seniors really stepped up and played as a team” stated Gibson.

Many star players on the team were recognized for their efforts through the season. Goalie Jeremy Smith received honorable mention for the all state team, while drivers Jason Deana and Kevin Dunigan received third and first team honors respectively. Two meter holeset Jack Morris received second team all state honors. Pat Dunigan was a finalist for the state MVP and also was first team all state.

Despite this star power the Knights were able to gel as a team. 

“We worked well together” said Senior Jason Deana. The efforts over the season, not just the talent, allowed them to come three goals away from the state title. “Hard work and dedication made us a great team” said Deana.

The state championship brought home from the women’s water polo seemed it might add a little extra pressure on the boys team to get it done. However, for this team the pressure to win was felt all season. 

“I think that’s a good, healthy pressure” said Gibson. The Knights clearly had a goal in mind. “All the guys wanted to win states” stated Gibson.

When the Knights exited the pool after their season opening rout at the hands of Cumberland Valley, there were some sincere doubts that they would end up seeing them again in the state final. Even more unlikely was the valiant effort the Knights gave to CV, the boys fell just 6-4 to the team that embarrassed them by ten goals a few months earlier. The 2011 boys water polo team proved that success can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and team work.