Student athlete profile - Chloe Chang

Chloe Chang

Hinsdale

What are you excited about this season?

I'm focused on being a good teammmate.

How were you introduced to the sport?

I've been swimming since I was really young, but I didn't really know about water polo until freshman year. My friends encouraged me to try it.

What's your goal?

My goal is to play well and be kind of a mentor to the juniors, sophomores and freshmen. I really hope that they have the opportunities to play in challenging games and take leadership roles.

Where have you evolved as a player?

I tried to play goalie freshman year, but I kind of learned that the goalie position wasn't for me. I've grown to learn more about the sport and the tips and tricks on where to shoot and all the technicalities of it.

How would your teammates describe you?

I think they would describe me as more of an aggressive player but also one who puts others before myself. Out of the pool, I think "fun" is a good way to describe myself.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

We listen to music, and we try to jump in the water together all at once as a team.

What else are you involved in at Central?

I'm part of FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) and the Ambassadors Club.

What might people be surprised to know about you?

I signed up to run my first half-marathon in April.

What do you plan to study in college?

I want to study in the areas of human development, education and public policy and help bring awareness to educational inequality in underprivileged areas.

Why does head coach Chris Ortiz like having Chang on the squad?

Her positivity is infectious. She always has a smile on her face and is willing to do whatever the coaches ask. She is a natural defender who brings an energy to the game that is tough to match. She has one of the fastest shots on the team, which often catches opposing teams off guard. Having Chloe on the team the last four years has been a blast, and I know she has a very bright future.

- profile by Ken Knutson. photo by Jim Slonoff

Author Bio

Ken Knutson is associate editor of The Hinsdalean