Typically strong local water polo programs are just a given when the fall and winter seasons roll around. With the boys playing this fall, several area schools hope to surface with league and/or CIF gold. At The Bishop’s School, the Knights under head coach Jim Fales finished 26-5 last season, capturing the Western League and CIF titles in the process. Bishop’s finished the 2008 season ranked number one in San Diego (all divisions). While the team graduated some strong talent, key players this season include seniors Emilio Marrero and Ollie Feune De Colombi; juniors Drew Hoffenberg, Matt Michalko, David Higginson, Adam Wrobel, Charlie Reed, JP Engh; and sophomores Blake Lee and Travis Webster. “With the loss of five starting players (all Division I athletes), the 2009 team will have to rely on a relatively young group to compete for a league and CIF title,” Fales commented. “The team has been working very hard. They have a great tradition to uphold, and we are excited about the opportunity and look forward to the challenge.” At La Jolla Country Day (LJCD) School, the Torreys under head coach Steve Traverso enter the 2009 campaign with more experience under their belts. “With the loss of only two seniors from last year’s squad, the boys have gained valuable experience with its junior class,” Traverso noted.   A year ago, the Torreys went to CIF playoffs and lost to La Jolla High in the first round. LJCD finished second in league play and hope to make a run for a league title this fall. Traverso expects big seasons from team leaders Ryan French (senior) and Liam Devine (junior) to guide the squad in its quest for its first league crown. According to Traverso, juniors Nick Augustine and Jack Hipikins, sophomores Adrian Everku-Kaku and Kai Tuits, along with freshman Tommy Edmond, will make this a competitive team. — Editor’s Note: La Jolla High did not provide information on its team prior to press time.