USA Women's Water Polo Team Photograph By Art Streiber for ESPN The Magazine

POWER PLAYERS: "Water polo players believe our sport is the most physically challenging in the world. There's no rest. We tread water the entire time. If you aren't in good physical condition, you'll die -- literally -- because you won't be able to keep your head above the water. The stronger, faster, better-conditioned team will typically win, which is why we have two three-hour practices daily." -- Adam Krikorian, coach