Athletes of the Issue: Karyn Bartosic: Glorious Goalie

As a seventh grader, she became the youngest member of Hopkins Girls Water Polo despite having never played before. Head Coach Chuck Elrick said, “It’s not often that you see someone that had never played the game before coming to Hopkins love the game as much as Karyn does.” 

Bartosic thrives in the competitive and challenging atmosphere of the sport and is excited to lead the team with fellow captain Georgia Doolittle ’18. Doolittle said, “Karyn is an incredibly hard worker.  Because of her dedication, she has become a powerhouse on a water polo team and one of our most valuable members.”

Bartosic’s skill has contributed to the team’s success. In the past two years, the team placed second in New Englands, with Bartosic on the All New England team twice. Coach Elrick said, “[Bartosic] has a good eye for the game. She can see things develop and anticipate what will happen next. She also has great reflexes. No matter where she plays, she makes others better.”

Bartosic values trust and communication within the pool and has translated it to her daily life. Doolittle said, “She is so friendly and open, and always eager to help newer players learn the game.” Teammate Sophia Vranos ’18 commented, “Bartosic was the perfect choice for captain because she is a fantastic role model for the younger girls.”

This spring, Bartosic hopes that Hop will beat Greenwich Academy and make New Englands for the third year in a row. With five seniors graduating, Bartosic noted the importance of importance of “bring younger kids into the fold, and not leave them, quite literally, in the deep end.” 

Water polo has taught Bartosic determination; pressure in goal can be tough. Bartosic said, “I have come to realize that I am the last line of defense” Doolittle added: “Water polo is a stressful game, and especially as a goalie people yell at you a lot. At this point, Karyn is a master at not getting frazzled, and staying focused.”

Although Bartosic will not be playing water polo on a varsity college team, she hopes to play on a club team throughout her college career.