James Davis '26 Recruiting Profile

My name is James Davis and I am pursuing a goal as both an athlete and a student in college.  Water polo is my passion along with engineering, entrepreneurship, and travel.  I started playing water polo at the age of 10 after joining (and quickly losing interest) a club swim team.  I found swimming laps to not be stimulating and wanted a competitive team sport.  Enter water polo, which I was introduced to by a former student at my mom’s high school.  I found the team aspect and work ethic to be just what I  needed.  I continue to enjoy the teamwork and aggression that comes with such a grueling sport.  I have played in two clubs and missed those relationships the most during COVID lockdown.  I was ready to get back in the pool and rejoin my team when it was safe to do so.  As a member of a club, I had the opportunity to compete at Junior Olympics in both 2021 and 2022.  That competition allowed me to develop lifelong friendships and learn more about the sport.  In 2021, I was selected by my club to attend an ODP training camp in Colorado Springs.  This experience left me inspired to continue the work and become the best player for my team and for myself.

I have learned leadership and how to work with others in a team sport.  I tried many different sports before finding the one that allowed me to learn new things while focusing on team chemistry.  I continue to learn new plays and ways to be better while focusing on my academics at the same time. 

In high school, I am enrolled in an engineering academy that allows me the opportunity to learn from real-world engineers and participate in mutli[e field trips while possibly working as a student intern in school business.  In addition, I am enjoying the opportunities that come with attending a small school while being transported daily to another school for athletics.  I get an opportunity to attend both schools and meet new people.  I take honors courses at the moment and plan to take Advanced Placement courses when available.  I took summer school prior to my freshman year and look forward to other opportunities to earn additional credits.   In college, I am hoping to major in business or engineering while working and playing water polo.  I am open to new adventures and opportunities. 

In terms of obstacles, the mental aspect of water polo can be demanding for me.  I have had to look for ways to mentally prepare for a game while not putting too much pressure on myself to succeed.  My club coach at the 14U level reminded me that my job is to play my hardest and help others while also not beating myself up if things did not go my way.  I have taken this lesson to heart and continue to find a balance between sports and other aspects of life. 

I find being left-handed to be my strongest asset since people do not always expect it.  I am also the oldest child in my family, so why that might not be unique it makes me the first to try new things and provide input on the future.