Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Hank Woodman, New Trier water polo

Hank Woodman is a utility player for the Trevians. He led the Trevians in goals a year ago and will continue playing water polo next season for Santa Clara University.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

Nothing crazy, but right before the first whistle, I jump as high out of the water as I can to the right, left and then straight up.

2. Why is Santa Clara a good fit for you?

I went out there over the summer and went out there two months ago. They have a great team dynamic. There are a lot of great guys on the team. I kind of knew I wanted to be out in California, out in the sun and there’s great water polo out there.

3. What is your dream job?

I don’t know if it’s a dream job. But I definitely want to look into coaching after — stick around the sport, do my part. I look up to a lot of coaches I’ve had. So maybe come back here to Illinois and put my time in. That would be pretty cool.

4. How did you get into water polo?

My older brother (Teddy, 21 years old) started playing and was on the swim team. I went to one of the games and saw him and knew immediately, like ‘I want to do that.’

5. What is your top moment playing water polo?

In 2023, when won the state championship and I got to point out my brother who was in the stands. He had won the previous year and I was pointing out at him, like ‘Ah, I got one too.’

6. If you could try another sport, what would it be?

I’d like to see myself on the football field. I love to watch football and I think I’d be able to read quarterbacks pretty well. I think I’d be a nice defender and be able to jump some routes.

7. What is your favorite thing to do outside the pool?

Meet up with friends, play a little of poker, blackjack; hang out with my dogs (goldendoodle named Gary, Portuguese water dog named Sadie).

8. If you are in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying?

A pack of Oreos and a diet coke.

9. What is something people do not know about you?

I’m a big snacker. I actually have a pack of Oreos next to my bed and I always pack up a couple snacks in my backpack. I have an extra locker in the pool locker room with Rice Krispies Treats, granola bars and apple sauce.

10. How do you want to finish this season?

We’re definitely looking to win state this year, get a state championship. Some things we need to focus on are communication and building chemistry. We are a senior-heavy team so our chemistry is quite good but not where it needs to be come late May. We are a very talented team and I think it’s a very achievable goal.

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