Interview with Water Polo Phenomenon Phoebe Bakanas ’10

Phoebe is currently the Plant Housefellow, a double major in sociology and music, and the star of the women’s water polo team.

Hahn Je: So I’d like to begin by asking, how long have you played water polo and how were you introduced to the sport? What teams have you played for?
Phoebe Bakanas: I first started water polo in seventh grade. I began playing as a way to stay in shape between swimming seasons. I fell in love with the sport and the combination of aggression and elegance it requires. So I started swimming to stay in shape for water polo. In high school I played for both the Wilton YMCA men’s and women’s teams. During the summer, I played for a Greenwich club team.

HJ: Wow. Yeah, I remember playing against you in high school. My next question is what is the highest accolade you have received in water polo, and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
PB: The highest honor I received in water polo was being named to the 2009 ESPN Academic All-District at-large third team. I enjoyed being named to the first team in a California tournament my sophomore year, mostly because it made my coach happy. My favorite recognition, however, is being team captain. The attitude and performance of the girls on the team makes me very proud to be their captain.

HJ: That is very admirable of you, talking about your team with such respect. Looking back at your tenure at Conn, what is the most memorable experience for you? Which memories do you cherish?
PB: I have had a lot of incredible experiences playing water polo for Connecticut College. I will always cherish my memories of being with the team. Win or lose, the girls and our coach, JJ Addison, have made every moment exciting. For instance, in our last tournament, we lost to Washington and Jefferson by one goal, but that was my favorite game of the season. The team really stepped it up; the game wasn’t supposed to be that close. We play them again so I can’t wait for that.”

HJ: How has the team changed since you have been at Conn? Do you feel like you’re leaving a legacy behind for future teams? How is the women’s water polo team different leaving than it was coming in?
PB: The team has been different every year and has improved every season. An obvious change this year is that the team has grown in numbers. We now have a full bench, which is necessary in a game as violent and exhausting as water polo. Also, captain practices were introduced in the off-season. The practices improved skills and increased enthusiasm.

The girls on the team this year are strong, focused and dedicated. There is a mix of experienced and inexperienced players, but every player contributes and is needed.

Another huge change is the team’s realignment into the new CWPA Division III play. This shift of leagues is a major step because we don’t have to play Division I powerhouses such as Hartwick anymore. Not only does this mean more victories, but it also means better competition. The close competition helps us improve our skills and aids us in recruitment efforts.

As for leaving a legacy, I just hope that my passion for the sport has helped encourage the team to continue working hard and has produced some new fans.

HJ: What do you wish to accomplish this season? Any goals?
PB: I hope that we will be in the top half of our league.

HJ: Do you have any plans or desires to continue with the sport after graduating?
PB: My plans post-graduation are up in the air, but I am definitely going to continue playing water polo. I can’t imagine not playing the sport. There are master clubs for adult players found in many parts of the country.

HJ: Who is going to replace your role as a vital player when you leave?
PB: The coach has already described sophomore Emily Hunter and freshman Kristen Lampley as superstars on the team. We also have a new goalie, Pam Lovejoy. Pam played in the field during high school, but she graciously agreed to play goalie. She has been doing an unbelievable job. The last tournament she recorded 37 saves! And the rest of the team has great potential as well. Each player on the team contributes in significant ways, which is why the game is so fun to watch. Actually, I could talk about every girl on the team this year. They all impress me.

HJ: Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in water polo? Maybe a particular diet that can be partially attributed to your success?
PB: I always have a banana and an Advil before playing a water polo game. This tradition started in high school when I was playing in a tournament, and I was sick with a cold and my shoulder was in pain from a recent sublux. My dad gave me a banana and an Advil before the last game. I went on to play one of my best games and helped my team win the tournament.

There is also another ritual, which I brought to the team from my high school days. I count the team into our cheer by barking like a drill sergeant/sounding like a man. In high school, this was done to poke fun of the manly-looking girls on the other teams. I guess I still do it for that reason. I know the other teams don’t get it though.

However, my biggest key to success is having fun. If I am not enjoying myself, something is wrong.

HJ: Thanks a lot, Phoebs. You’ve been great. Any additional comments or facts you’d like to bestow upon your readers? Maybe a fun fact about yourself?
PB: Well…my favorite animal is the hippo. My college essay was about how I am similar to a hippo. That caused a lot of laughter among my friends, but I still harbor some kindred spirit for the animal. At first glance, the hippo is judged to be slow because of its big body on top of stubby legs, dumb because of its homely face with small eyes, and peaceful because of its grazing behavior. Of course, none of those attributes are true. Hippos are full of surprises. In the water, I aim to be full of surprises too.

HJ: Thanks Phoebe, and I wish the best for you both during and after the season. Hopefully, you’ll come back to visit and shoot around next year. Good luck and go CC women’s water polo!