SACRAMENTO – The St. Francis Water Polo team promoted three players to the varsity team for the final regular season game and the playoff season, Head Coach Heather Moody announced.

 “For those three girls, it shows them it is not that drastically different (from JV) and it is not that hard,” said Moody. “It gives them a confidence boost and is a reward for their season.”

Moody invited goalie Kate Watley and utility players Abigail Berg and Hayley Hoang to the varsity team.

“We are always looking for goalies so having Kate come in is huge, Abby being a lefthander is something we can use possibly in the playoffs and Hayley is stepping in as a solid player,” said Moody. “Each one is going to bring a different dynamic to the workout. If they get in the pool in the playoffs, it will be a bigger perk for their development.”

Watley, a sophomore, developed into strong goalie for the Troubies in her first season in the sport. She will wear cap #7.

“It is an honor to be called up to varsity under Heather,” said Watley, who came out to water polo after trying out for volleyball. “Volleyball did not work out and it was not God’s plan.”

Hoang, a sophomore, scored 26 goals this season, tying for third best on the team. She will wear cap #20.

“I think it is going to be a great experience and I am very proud to say I got called up,” said Hoang. “I am very excited to see what Heather has to say about my improvement.”

Berg led the JV unit with over 50 goals on the season. Berg will wear cap #15.

“I thought it was a great opportunity to learn from Heather and improve and work on my skills,” said Berg.

The St. Francis water polo team received a No. 5 seed in the Sac-Joaquin Section bracket announced Friday. The Troubadours will host a game at Jesuit High School on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. against No. 12 River City. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for students and children are free.