Pittsford held off a challenge from a tenacious Penfield team to clinch the title at the 36^th Annual Water Polo Invitational at Mendon High School. 

The tournament, held over the Thanksgiving holiday break, benefits the American Diabetes Association and marks the beginning of the boys’ high school swimming and diving season.  Between donations from the participating teams and ticket sales for the event, more than $3,270 was raised this year, the most in the history of the tournament.

Eight teams took part in the competition at Mendon Pool:  Brighton, Churchville Chili, Webster, Fairport, Greece, Gates Chili, Penfield and Pittsford. In the consolation match, Fairport needed overtime to defeat Webster 15-14, in one of the most exciting games in years.  The final between Pittsford and Penfield was another close, hard-fought match, with the Panthers winning 7-5 to go undefeated at their home pool.

“I was very pleased with the level of play and sportsmanship displayed by the teams, as well as their generosity,” said Pittsford head coach Mark Morris.  He also thanked volunteer officials Seth Sealfon, Ralph Simpson and Greg Horvak for helping to make the tournament a success.

More than $73,000 has been raised for the American Diabetes Association in the 36 year history of the tournament, which was started by Pittsford’s first swim coach, Fred Rockow, in 1973.