Renovation of Newport’s pool almost completed

Steve Virgen

Newport Harbor High’s pool, which has been refurbished and was

initially expected to be ready Nov. 1, has been held back for use

because the heating system is being repaired, but the school is

hopeful it will be ready next week.

Newport assistant principal Robert Cunard hoped the pool could be

used Tuesday, when the girls water polo team opens its season against

Esperanza. But even if the water’s fine, the game’s site has been

changed.

“They won’t have the bleachers in on Tuesday,” Newport Coach Bill

Barnett said. “The pool may be warm, but we’ll play at Esperanza.”

The Sailors would be able to practice in their own pool, possibly

Wednesday, said Barnett, who is pleased with the results.

“It’s beautiful,” he said of the renovation that went for roughly

$1 million. “They did a great job, just a wonderful job.”

Barnett said the first game to be played in the new pool is

targeted for Dec. 19, when the Sailors host Back Bay rival Corona del

Mar.