After four years of early mornings, chlorine-stung eyes, and the nonstop rhythm of practices and tournaments, senior girls’ water polo captain Lucy Nihart is heading south to continue her athletic career.
Nihart recently committed to play Division I water polo at San Diego State University, marking the peak of her high school career. From learning the basics to leading the Granite Bay team, her journey has been defined by dedication, leadership, and passion for the game.
It’s a rare achievement to make a D1 roster, but anyone who’s watched Nihart play knows it comes as no surprise. She has been a part of Granite Bay’s program since freshman year, becoming a central figure in the team’s success and spirit. Known for her steady confidence and sense of humor, she is known as the kind of teammate who holds everyone accountable and still keeps things fun.
“I feel super happy and thankful I got this opportunity,” Nihart said. “I’ve worked really hard for it, and I’m just so happy it paid off.”
She admitted that SDSU wasn’t always her expected destination, something she can laugh about now.
“I went to a camp there in seventh grade and told myself I wouldn’t go there,” Nihart said, laughing. “But everything kind of fell into place. I really love the campus and the team, it just feels right.”
Her coach for the past four years, Tyson Fren, says her growth over the years has been remarkable to watch.
“Lucy has continued to find new ways to improve her game year after year,” Fren said. “She’s a dynamic player who understands the game deeply, and she deserves all the credit for her success.”
As center, Nihart anchors the offense in one of the sport’s most physically demanding roles. Her presence in the water has made it clear to any viewer that she contributes heavily to the team dynamic. But beyond what shows up on the scoreboard, she’s proudest of the team culture she’s helped build.
“I’ve definitely been a strong leader the last two years, and it’s been cool to see the younger players start to step up,” Nihart said. “We’ve built such a fun, focused team environment, and that’s what I’ll remember most.”
Her drive comes from both family and the athletes she looked up to through her years with the 680 club program, a competitive East Bay water polo team.
“My parents have always been my biggest supporters,” Nihart said. “And I’ve seen so many 680 players go to college for polo and come back so happy with their teams. That made me realize how much I wanted that same kind of experience.”
Her coach credits that mindset as a big part of her success.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see one of our GB athletes push through to the next level,” Fren said. “It’s really difficult to make a D1 roster, so we’re all very proud of Lucy for such an amazing accomplishment.”
Teammate of four years and fellow senior, Ava Preininger, also voices her excitement for her teammate’s accomplishment. Over the years, the two have grown close through countless practices and tournaments, and Preininger said she always admired Nihart’s drive and positivity both in and out of the pool.
“Lucy’s always been one of the most dedicated people on the team,” Preininger said, “She pushes everyone to be better but still makes it so fun, so seeing her commit to D1 feels really well deserved.”
Now, as she prepares to swap Grizzly green for Aztec red, Nihart says she is just excited for what’s next.
“I can’t wait to play D1 water polo,” she said. “It’s something I’ve always dreamed of. I’m excited to go away to college, meet the team, and keep growing.”
Nihart leaves behind a legacy of hard work, positivity, and heart. From the Granite Bay pool deck to Division I, she is proof that dedication can take you anywhere.
