THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF USA

Heavens To Betsey Q & A With FINA’s Top Female Water Polo Player - Team USA’s Betsey Armstrong

VOLUME 26, NUMBER 1, SPRING 2011 Annual Awards Announced p.16

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF USA WATER POLO VOL. 26, NUM. 1, Spring 2011 What’s Inside... USA Water Polo National Office ON THE cover . . 2124 Main Street, Suite 240 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 USA Women’s National Inside Water...... 2 (714) 500-5445 business Team goalie Betsey (714) 500-5449 membership Heavens Armstrong. (714) 960-2431 fax To Betsey 5 Meters...... 4 Q & A With FINA’s Top Female Water Polo photo courtesy US Presswire USA WATER POLO NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER Player - Team USA’s Betsey Armstrong 11360 Valley Forge Ave. Al AwArds Annu p.14 Los Alamitos, CA 90720 Announced Water Polo Times ...... 10 (562) 799-8506 business (562) 799-8508 fax WEB SITE From the Deck...... 32 www.usawaterpolo.org Chief Executive Officer Christopher Ramsey Lob Shots...... 34 Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer Mai Lam Hot Shots...... 36 Chief Marketing Officer Jennifer Rottenberg Director of OLYMPIC Development ReCaps Director of Sport Development Scott Tanner Director of Finance USA Water Polo James D. Callahan Golf Tournament. . . . . 14 Events Manager Kate Strand Associate Director of Communications USA Water Polo Greg Mescall Associate Director Of CompetitioN Annual Awards ...... 16 Claudia Dodson pg20 Membership Services Manager Christy Medigovich ODP Rosters...... 19 Development Coordinator Q & A Inge Hergenrather Video Producer With Goalie Betsey Armstrong Jeanine McDougall Also In This Issue... National Teams Coordinator Ashley Papenbrock A Day in the Life . . . . . 25 Finance Coordinator Fay Hu Marketing Services Coordinator Water Polo Scene . . . . . 26 Caroline Acosta Board of Directors Michael Graff (Chairman), Jeremy Laster, Ed Reynolds, William Smith, Ellen Estes Lee, Robert Sternfels, RoAnn Costin, John Hendrickson, Look Ahead... Sandy Nitta, Richard Esterkin Next Issue EDITOR Greg Mescall >2011 SwimOutlet.com Contributors Junior Olympics Preview Darcy Couch, , Jason Lynch, Jim Cullingham, Mary Pat Robinson, Joan Gould, Ed Haas, Summit Photography, Sally Olds, Jeff Shewmon, Tracy Birdsell, Kevin Burke, Fotos FPN, Fotos Hugo Rocha, Michael Duffy, Gwen Golub, Michael Machnik, George Stransky, Mike Miller, Stan Schwimer, Karina Cordisco, Stuart Sheldon, Jordan Eickman, Kelley Casey, Allen Lorentzen PRINTING Quad Graphics 555 South 108th Street, West Allis, WI 53214 pg27 >FINA World Championships Breakdown CREATIVE Adrenalin, Inc. 54 West 11th Ave., Denver, CO 80204 303-454-8888 | goadrenalin.com Alison Gregorka Takes On Wipeout

USA Water Polo Skip Shot Magazine (ISSN# 15507580) is published four times per year by United States Water Polo, Inc., located at 2124 Main Street, Suite 240, Huntington Beach, CA 92648. Periodicals postage is paid at Huntington Beach, CA 92648 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Skip Shot Magazine, United States Water Polo, Inc., 2124 Main Street, Suite 240, usawaterpolo.org 1 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 INSIDE WATER letter from the CEO, Christopher Ramsey USA WATER POLO The Growth Of USA Water Polo

The results are in Year Revenue Net Assets Annual Fund Membership ± FINA/Olympic Medals * for the 2010 year, and it’s clear that 2006 $3,900,018 $(636,690) $93,319 26,991 1 USA Water Polo is 2007 ^ $4,709,511 $(728,351) $138,375 26,945 2 growing stronger. 2008 # $5,024,824 $(430,285) $447,049 26,873 4 Annual revenue 2009 $5,431,042 $71,135 $341,097 30,928 3 has nearly doubled in six years. Charitable do- nations are a key engine for revenue growth, 2010 $6,496,081 $126,750 $634,367 33,766 2 and since 2006, contributions have risen almost 2011 $7,223,837 sevenfold. The number of contributors to the an- ± total 12 month individual members, * Most total Olympic/World Championship water polo medals won by any nation during period, nual fund has also increased from less than 100 ^ FINA Jr. World Hosting Obligation from 2005, # Olympics in 2006 to nearly 2,000 in 2010. Accumulated debts have been paid off. We are projecting an We strive for transparency. USA Water Polo to a newly created position, associate director of operational surplus for the year. posts its audited financial results and IRS 990 competition in the Sport Development division. forms on our Web site within the public docu- Claudia is experienced as a player, coach, referee, Membership rose 26 percent— from less than ments section of “Inside USA Water Polo.” The Masters participant, and water polo parent. And 27,000 members in 2006 to nearly 34,000 at last chart above provides a snapshot of several key finally we named a new membership manager, year’s conclusion. Guided by a collaborative performance measurements. Christy Medigovich, who played NCAA water growth plan prepared with McKinsey & Com- polo, coached at San Diego Shores, and is a regu- As we marshal greater resources toward our pany on a pro bono basis, we plan to expand our lar Masters player. investment in membership programs and sport mission, we plan to spend the lion’s share of ad- development in 2011. ditional dollars on membership programs that Splashball is gaining momentum at clubs further develop and expand our sport. In 2011 across the country, both as a great avenue for Along with membership and revenue, our Men’s we’ve launched coach and referee associations sampling our sport and an alternative method and Women’s Senior and Junior National teams to provide stronger voices for these two key for learning basic swimming skills. Our newly have collectively captured more FINA and groups, as well as implemented an entirely new overhauled SwimOutlet.com Junior Olympics is Olympic Medals since 2006 than any other na- system for rating and providing feedback to right around the corner. And the FINA World tion. In 2010, our women won a Gold Medal in referees. The Assembly in January included a Championships in Shanghai loom as the next the FINA World League followed by our first USAWP Referee School led by NRC Chairman great test for our national teams. Gold Medal at the FINA Cup in 36 years. Our Jim Cullingham along with one of the world’s Stay tuned to usawaterpolo.org for the latest de- Olympic Development Program also had its most respected officials, Boris Margeta. most successful year ever, with more than 1,400 velopments in 2011. It promises to be an eventful participants across the nation. In 2010 we welcomed back Heather Moody year. as assistant coach for the Women’s National Finance and administrative costs remain at or Team. Heather is a two-time Olympian and an below other comparable youth sport organiza- Olympic coach; her experience is a great as- tions. In 2010, USAWP spent roughly 10 cents set. We brought James Callahan aboard as our on the dollar toward finance and administration. new director of finance. A 14-year veteran of This “overhead,” as some might call it, compares Money Mailer and a CPA, Jim brings a wealth favorably with the U.S. Olympic Committee of financial and human-resource experience to Chris (15 cents), USA Swimming (12.5 cents), USA USA Water Polo. We welcomed Claudia Dodson Volleyball (16.5 cents), and AYSO (20 cents). Top Stories on USAWaterPolo.org... > First Ever Silver & Bronze Division Tournament Announced–http://tinyurl com/4gjufxo. >Counter Attack Podcast Debut–http://counterattack .libsyn com/.

www.facebook.com/usawp www.youtube.com/usawp www.twitter.com/usawp

If you have a comment or question concerning Skip Shot magazine, send in a letter to the editor. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR You can write to Skip Shot Magazine: c/o USA Water Polo, 2124 Main Street, Suite 240, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 or 2 send an email to: [email protected]

5 METERS Quick Shots from USA Water Polo USA WATER POLO

What’s on my iPod? ... Alice Smith–“Woodstock” Juan Luis Guerra–“Ojalá Que Llueva Café” John Legend– —This is in my pregame mix, and I can’t —I grew up on Spanish music, and this “Ordinary People” really say why—it’s just a different sound, has always been one of my favorites. —A great singing and I like it. Listening to Spanish jazz or even in- song and good for 2008 Olympic Silver strumental jazz gets me focused for big chill travels or my Medalist–Women’s Various Artists–Across the Universe Senior National Team Soundtrack/Tropical Tribute to the Beatles games since I’m not listening as much to shower radio. the lyrics as to the rhythm. —The Beatles in a movie format, The Beatles in Spanish….just amazing. Nicki Minaj (ft . Drake)–“Moment 4 Life” —Enough said.

art by Kevyn Schmidt

want to let my friends down. We were playing Commerce when boys My 1st Match and girls used to play together; was playing on the other Adam Wright, 2008 Silver Medalist, team. I do remember the girls as the more feisty ones; they didn’t back Men’s Senior National Team down from the boys. The game was very competitive; we won. The Head Coach, thing that I remember most was that this was a team game, and every single player was an intricate part of the game. This is what drew me UCLA Men’s Water Polo Team to the game of water polo: Knowing that if you made a mistake, you could count on a teammate to help. Lastly I will state that if it weren’t Late 1980s, Fall for Klaus Barth, I wouldn’t be involved in the game I love so deeply. My first water polo match was for He taught our group so many life lessons—but most importantly the Beach Swim Club. My coaches were importance of giving yourself to the group so it can achieve greatness. I Klaus Barth, Maureen O’Toole still carry these life lessons with me today as a player and a coach. I will Mendoza, and Tony (whose last name be forever grateful to be a part of the greatest sport on the planet. This I don’t remember). We played at Long sport has given me so much, but most importantly friendships that will Beach State. I’d been swimming for last a lifetime. quite some time and decided to join my friends and try water polo. I remember I was nervous because it was all new to me, and I didn’t

4 Quick Shots from USA Water Polo 5 METERS

each other’s strengths to grow together as a team and succeed. In My Life As A Movie the movie the T-Rex represents the current world number-one team . . by Thomas Hopkins (Serbia). In our journey to the Great Valley we devise a plan to defeat Men’s Senior National Team the T-Rex. Ducky acts as bait. Petrie distracts him. Once T-Rex is lured to the edge of a nearby cliff, Sara, Littlefoot, and Spike push If my life were a movie, it would be The Land Before Time. him over the side. The T-Rex gets stuck in an old bird’s nest on the It’s the story of five orphan dinosaurs who become separated from side of the mountain, and together the dinos are triumphant. During their families at young ages due to the “great divide” of the land. the victory, Eminem’s song, “Sing for the Moment” plays in the The five dinos are forced to work together over the course of their background. journeys through the ruins of the world to find the legendary “Great Finally, when we make it to the Great Valley (the Gold Medal in Valley” which represents a Gold Medal at the 2012 Olympic Games London), you hear the theme from “Chariots of Fire” by Vangelis, in London. and all the dinos are contently smiling. All five dinos have different characteristics—and therefore strengths and weaknesses. I would be the young brontosaurus (Sweet Littlefoot) because he’s friends with everyone and never gives up on the dream/goal of finding the Great Valley (i.e., an Olympic Gold Medal). The other dinos are Bold Sara (Jesse Smith), Chatty Ducky (Peter Varellas), Playful Petrie (Andy Stevens), and Strong Spike (). The narrators who guide the dinos on their way and coach us to the Gold Medal are our USA National Team coaches and Robert Lynn. In my movie, instead of searching for the Great Valley, we must come together from different water polo teams, backgrounds, walks of life, and motivations to work together to achieve one common goal: Winning the Gold Medal at the London Olympic Games. We all come from different cities, attended different colleges, and currently play on different professional teams in different countries, but we must all come together and utilize

Congratulations to Dylan Peterson of Anaheim, California profiled in our first U.S. Navy SEALs Hardcore Moment of the Quarter. To see Dylan’s story visit www.youtube.com/usawp.

To learn more about USA Water Polo and the U.S. Navy SEALs working together visit http://usawaterpolo.org/SEALs.aspx

usawaterpolo.org 5 5 METERS Quick Shots from USA Water Polo USA WATER POLO

Your thoughts on . .

Drac Wigo–Men’s DVR/digital recording: I love 6-on-4 situation (double exclu- must-score situation. No ifs, ands, Senior National Team watching TV, but I hate capping sion/kickout): The game may be or buts about it. If a team doesn’t All-you-can-eat out on mega video and having to getting a little crazy if this happens. score in that situation…expect buffets: I could eat wait an hour to finish my show or But if you’re on defense and still wind sprints later. To defend a six- all my meals at one movie. Then I decided to man- stop them, it’s an awesome feeling. on-four, we would pack the goal of these during hell month. I spent up and got a DVR senior year. (“Take that! Who needs 5?”) with two players on either side of a lot of evenings with my team- (Actually someone gave me the the goalie, working the angles. If Toughest water polo condition- mates at an all-you-can-eat sushi box, and I ran a 50-foot cable from the ball handler comes into the ing exercise (and why): Any sprint restaurant during my time my friend’s room to “borrow” the goal, we walk out a bit; once the water polo circuit involving swim- at Stanford. cable—worth it!) ball is passed, head back to defend. ming as fast as you can, heavy (But remember, only use one hand DVR/digital recording: A pretty 6-on-4 situation (double exclu- balls, jumping, and stretch cords. to block if you’re a field player!) sweet innovation; however, I’ve sion/kickout): Who doesn’t love It’s hard because you’re pushing never owned one. I can usually being on the better end of a 6-on- yourself as hard as you can for a Toughest water polo condition- hold my bladder long enough ’til 4? You get to patiently move the long period of time, moving from ing exercise (and why): It has to be the commercials come on. ball around while you watch your one exercise to the next without the water-jug tread. Looking back 6-on-4 situation (double exclu- opponents use all their energy to much rest. It pushes you physically I don’t know how I ever did them, sion/kickout): It’s exciting to be cover the goal. When you finally to your max in many ways. but I can still feel my burning legs drop the G, you watch as all four while I tried to hoist five gallons on the side with six players, but it Lil’ Wayne (rapper): His songs of them slink to the bottom from of water. Even after half the water really sucks to be two men down. I have graced many a lifting mix. wonder if there has been a 6-on-3 exhaustion. finally spilled out, it still felt like 40 pounds of water! before? Toughest water polo condition- Shannon Holt– Slippery Rock University Toughest water polo condition- ing exercise (and why): I’ve come alum, Top-three all-time Lil’ Wayne (rapper): Although I’m ing exercise (and why): 20 x 200s. across a lot of hard conditioning goals scored not a fan of his dirty mouth, any Coach Vargas (at Stanford) would in my day, but I have this problem song with Lil’ Wayne is instantly make us do that set once a month called Motivated Forgetting where All-you-can-eat better. Take Destiny’s Child in the off-season, and it would be I block out the painful swim sets buffets: A tad less wonderful now “Solider” or “Bling Bling,” for on my mind days before we had from my past. Maybe that’s why that I’m no longer training—but example: The best parts of those to swim it. It’s a mental crusher I became a psych major… But in oh how I miss the Wendy’s Super songs are—hands down—when Lil because it’s almost 50 minutes of all seriousness, Coach Vargas can buffet! Back in the early ’90s, Wayne comes in. But I’ve always continuous swimming and mak- attest that on days when we were when my dad was Kutztown wondered…is the Birdman really ing up musical beats in your head. given 20x200s, he saw me empty- University’s swim coach, he would his father? ing my goggles a lot (and it wasn’t take my brother, Ryan, and me to Lil’ Wayne (rapper): He’s defi- pool water draining out). a Wendy’s Buffet down the street Steve Rotstart– Referee nitely a talented individual, but I from the college. We would load Lil’ Wayne (rapper): The dude All-you-can-eat never really got into his music too our tray full of tacos, fettuccine lives in Florida, which makes buffets: Sushi only much. And if that offends anyone, alfredo, and garlic bread with anyone cool in my opinion, but please. I have a few of his songs on my dessert—and all the while my dad iPod for the record. his music doesn’t really spark my interest. He also goes to a lot of was paying under five bucks for DVR/digital recording: The only way I stay up with current Janson Wigo–Men’s Heat games with a Hornet’s hat two of us to feast. How can you Senior National Team on—not cool… beat that?! programming. All-you-can-eat DVR/digital recording: DVR is 6-on-4 situation (double exclu- buffets: Sometimes – unbelievable! I upgraded to a DVR sion/kickout): Incorrect vocabu- I lie awake at night Three-time Olympic medalist, Women’s Senior box about three weeks ago (a bit lary. 6-on-4 is a possibility but and wonder what life would be National Team behind the times, this I realize), rarely is a reality. Double exclusion like if buffets didn’t exist, then All-you-can-eat and it truly is life-changing. I like creates a 5-on-5 and within the I often become so enraged that I buffets: Very popular in Brazil. to go to bed early, so sometimes current rules provides an avenue have to breathe deeply and repeat I’m not sure how the people there it’s a stretch to stay up to watch to deal with player behavior and to myself that it’s just a horrid “all you can eat” so much and still a prime TV show at 10 p.m. EST not penalize a team. illusion I created and that in the wear those tiny bikinis. For me, (like say, Jersey Shore). But now Toughest water polo condition- morning I’ll be grubbing at Fresh “all you can eat” is great when I’m I can conveniently watch Sammi ing exercise (and why): Water jugs. Choice. A teammate at Stanford— in full-time training. Best bang for and Ron-Ron’s latest fight as soon Enough said. Will Smith—decided to visit Drac your buck. as I get home from work the next and me in sunny south Florida day, rather than waiting for the Lil’ Wayne (rapper): I feel like he’s and was shocked that we could DVR/digital recording: Best way rerun to air. in more songs than Jersey Shore is eat at buffets for lunch and dinner to watch TV! But too expensive. I on MTV. 6-on-4 situation (double exclu- every day. don’t even have cable anymore. sion/kickout): Offensively, it’s a 6 SS BBMAC ad:Layout 1 8/31/10 8:06 AM Page 1

An Olympic-Class Pool in an Island Paradise... The Brian Bent Memorial Aquatics Complex has it ALL.

What do you get when you combine a BBMAC Features fast aquatic training facility with one of I 50-meter,7-foot depth Olympic-Class Pool Southern California’s finest beach communities? I Versatile,moveable bulkhead, providing teams A winning formula. and tournament directors maximum flexibility I Any water polo course length (or split into The Brian Bent Memorial Aquatics Complex is multiple courses for maximum versatility) just two miles from downtown San Diego on I Adjacent therapy/warm water pool vibrant Coronado Island — boasting warm, I Adjacent weight room and track with synthetic sunny beaches,great restaurants,lodging and turf field world-famous attractions — all just minutes away. I Two optional workout lengths (8 long course lanes or 19 short course lanes) The athletes love the pool, as well as its I proximity to the beach, shops and restaurants. Cross training area (25-yard/6 short course lanes) University of Nevada Coach Las Vegas Swimming Team Why Coronado Island? I Call 619-522-8900 ext. 2821 or visit Year-round temperatures between the upper 60s to low 70s www.bbmac.org I San Diego’s largest beach — voted third best Special lodging and dining packages are available for a beach in the U.S. limited time. I Hotels,restaurants,shops,groceries and beaches BBMAC has hosted: USA Masters Water Polo Tournament, within walking distance of BBMAC California State Water Polo Games,Australian National I Swim Team,and Long Course Junior Olympics. 10 minutes from San Diego International Airport Sea Air Federal Credit Union Official Credit Union of USA Water Polo® Special Offers for USA Water Polo Members 1. Join SAFCU and receive a voucher for 1 FREE ticket to any USAWP National Team Game in 2011. 2. Show your SAFCU membership card and Save – All Members of SAFCU receive Special Offer From Sea Air FCU* 10% off the ticket price* when you show your SAFCU Membership Card at any single USAWP National Team Game. The more members of your family that are SAFCU members, the more you save! Double Your Return! * For any available general admission ticket level Open a new Youth Savings Account at SAFCU with a balance of $25 or more and we’ll add $25 to the account balance at opening! Sea Air FCU and USA Water Polo a winning Combination!

*New SAFCU member must be a member of USA water Polo and be under the age of 18 at account opening.

Contact us for more information: www.seaairfcu.org • (888) 732-2471 Serving You Nationwide: 28,000+ Free Nationwide ATMs, Access To Hundreds of Branches Nationwide, 24/7 Online Banking and Bill Pay, and More....

LUDUS Tours is proud to be partnering with

Ludus Tours is USA Water Polo’s choice for all accommodation and hospitality needs for the World Championships. US TOU D R Let our friendly and dedicated staff U S L help bring the very best of that experience to you.

w

m w o w . c . s WHERE WILL YOU BE? l u r d u s t o u

LUDUSTOURS.COM

WATER POLO TIMES News Briefs USA WATER POLO

continued success at the 2012 Olympics and as a global player on the in- TURBO Named Official ternational water polo scene,” said Snider. “By partnering with USA Water Polo, we can continue to help develop the Outfitting Partner Of USA sport of water polo on a whole from the beginner to the Olympic team ath- Water Polo lete. The TURBO line of products provides the athletes world class com- petitive gear combined with cutting edge designs,” added Schumacher. TURBO, a global manufacturer of water polo suits, caps, robes, and ap- parel has signed a two-year agreement with USA Water Polo to serve as “I am very excited for TURBO to be the official outfitting partner with the official outfitting partner of the National Governing Body. As part of USA Water Polo,” said Wigo. “I know from my playing days on the Olym- the agreement, TURBO will outfit the USA National Teams at every level pic team that my teammates and I always hoped that TURBO could be along with producing custom products for the ODP program, and serve our sponsor because TURBO is the best quality product in the water polo as the title sponsor of the annual Top 40, Men’s Trial Series, and 14 & U market. I am very proud that the Men’s and Women’s National teams will Champions Cup events, now the TURBO Top 40, TURBO Trials Series, be competing in TURBO gear, which I hope can provide a competitive and TURBO Champions Cup. edge towards the goal of Olympic Gold.” TURBO will produce the official uniforms worn by the National Teams at such prestigious upcoming events as the FINA World Championships, Pan American Games, and 2012 Olympic Games. Eventually, replica uniform USA Water Polo & U.S. Navy items will be available for SEALs Join Forces USA Water USA Water Polo, the national governing body for the sport in America, Polo mem- and the U.S. Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land), a versatile special opera- bers and tions force, have teamed up to offer water polo players exposure to SEAL fans to pur- mental and physical fitness. chase. USA Water Polo The SEALs have produced data that indicates young men who play water will also polo succeed more often in SEAL basic training than other candidates. produce an Consequently, the SEALs formed a relationship with USA Water Polo to online video series profiling TURBO products in conjunction with their raise awareness about Navy SEAL careers among water polo athletes. use by USA Water Polo athletes. In addition, the company will have an “The sport of water enhanced presence in Skip Shot magazine, the official member publica- polo produces men- tion of USA Water Polo including advertisements and sponsored sections. tally and physically Throughout the partnerships, members and fans will notice TURBO tough athletes,” said representatives on pool decks at many official USAWP events offering a SEAL Capt. Adam variety of official apparel and accessory items for sale. Curtis, director of “We have chosen to partner with TURBO because of their outstanding, the SEAL and SWCC competition-proven quality and innovation,” said Christopher Ramsey, Scout Team. “That CEO of USA Water Polo. “TURBO is a company that puts water polo toughness coupled first, which is the kind of commitment and experience that we wanted for with water polo play- our national teams, our Olympic Development Program and for all of our ers’ affinity for the water makes them viable candidates for Navy SEAL clubs and members.” Teams. We hope that, through our partnership, we will raise awareness among water polo players about the career opportunities available to them “We are excited to welcome TURBO to the USA Water Polo family,” said in the SEAL Teams, while at the same time offering them a rewarding USA Water Polo CMO Jen Rottenberg. She added, “They share our vision physical fitness challenge.” for growing water polo here in the US, growing the USA Water Polo brand, and working together to take this category to the next level.” SEAL candidates endure among the most difficult mental and physical military training in the world. Members of USA Water Polo clubs nation- With headquarters based in Spain, TURBO is distributed domestically wide will benefit from exposure to SEAL training tips and life perspec- in California and is anchored in the United States by water polo greats tives, such as mental toughness and teamwork, through experiences at and . Schumacher, a two-time Olympic Gold regional SEAL Fitness Challenge events. medalist in swimming at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta played for the U.S. Men’s Olympic Water Polo team in the 2000 Olympic Games in The SEAL Fitness Challenge includes the following tasks in a timed envi- Sydney, Australia. Currently he heads up one of the largest water polo ronment: 500-yard swim, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a 1.5 mile run. clubs in USA Water Polo, Saddleback El Toro, more commonly known USA Water Polo members taking the Challenge will be able to compare as SET. Wigo, a long-time captain of the Men’s National Team and a their results, via an online database, to all other Challenge participants. three-time Olympian, competed in the Olympic Games in 1996, 2000, Member Clubs will receive additional benefits for SEAL Fitness Chal- and 2004. Currently he is Head Coach of the UC-Santa Barbara Men’s and lenge participation. Women’s Water Polo teams and also serves as a color commentator for “The Navy SEALs set the highest standard for excellence and service,” NBC Olympics. said Christopher Ramsey, CEO of USA Water Polo. “We believe this part- Todd Snider, a 2001 National Champion at Stanford University and nership not only will encourage our members toward higher standards of a former member of Junior and Youth National teams partnered with health and fitness; we also recognize that the SEALs are experts in the arts Schumacher and Wigo in January 2011 as CEO. “On behalf of TURBO, of leadership and teamwork, and we relish an opportunity to learn from we are excited to align ourselves with USA Water Polo with a push for them and apply relevant knowledge across the USA Water Polo system.”

10 News Briefs WATER POLO TIMES

The USA Men’s National Team visited the SEALs’ training facility in years, and now we have the chance to share our knowledge with the ath- Coronado, CA, in the winter of 2007 and took part in a variety of drills letes in the pipeline. Robert and I have worked closely and candidly in col- in an effort to promote teamwork and overcome adversity. The following laboration with Terry to take an idea and make it happen. We are placing year that same team earned a Silver Medal at the 2008 Olympic Games, a strong coaching commitment to the Men’s Junior National Team with an their first Olympic medal in 20 years. emphasis on consistent and quality training. We have a lot of work to do in a very short time period.” “Our work with the Navy SEALs in late 2007 was instrumental to our teambuilding as we approached the Beijing Olympic Games,” said USA Men’s Water Polo Head Coach Terry Schroeder. “The SEALs helped us understand what it means to be a true teammate. It also gave us a per- spective on what’s really important in life. The SEALs apply their team SwimOutlet.com Named concept to life-and-death situations as they fight for our country and our freedom. We all have the utmost respect for what they do.” Official Aquatic Supplier of USA Water Polo will be recognizing a “Navy SEALs Hardcore Moment” USA Water Polo each quarter that focuses on a water polo athlete who has overcame great SwimOutlet.com—a leading retailer in aquatics and billed as the Inter- odds with SEAL-like toughness to succeed in the game of water polo. The net’s “most popular swim shop”—will serve as the official aquatic sup- first athlete recognized is Dylan Peterson of Katella High School in Ana- plier of USA Water Polo through 2012. SwimOutlet.com will also serve heim, California. His video profile can be viewed by visiting the dedicated as the title sponsor of the Junior Olympics, the world’s largest water polo Navy SEALs section of USAWaterPolo.org tournament featuring age-group competition from 10U through 21U. The For more information on the U.S. Navy SEALs, visit their web site at two-year pact includes SwimOutlet.com’s sponsorship of the Athlete of www.SEALSWCC.com.

Robert Lynn and Guy Baker Named Men’s Jr. National Team Co-Head Coaches Robert Lynn, a 2000 Olympian and assistant coach for the 2008 Silver Medal-winning the Month segment at usawaterpolo.org, which includes a monthly prize Men’s Olympic Team, and Guy Baker, for each month’s recipient. In addition iSport.com will take hold as the three-time medal-winning coach of the USA official aquatic social network for USA Water Polo with a specific focus Women’s Olympic Team, have been named on masters’ water polo. co-head coaches of the Men’s Junior National “Not only are we partnering with the best online aquatic retailer, but also Team. Baker (USA Water Polo’s Director of we’re very excited to bring the social media tools of iSport to the USA Olympic Development) and Lynn (assistant Water Polo community,” said USA Water Polo CMO Jennifer Rottenberg. coach for the Men’s Senior National Team and “SwimOutlet.com carries a terrific variety and great quality of water polo head coach of the Harvard Westlake Boy’s products that will be of great value to our members. Overall, we feel it’s and Girl’s water polo teams) will continue in very exciting they will be partnering with us and titling our Junior Olym- their current positions in addition to this new pic Tournament as we head into its 42nd year.” assignment. “We are honored to become a partner with USA Water Polo, and we look “I am excited that Robert and Guy have agreed forward to serving the Water Polo community’s needs,” said Alexander to work together as co-coaches on the Junior Sienkiewicz, CMO of SwimOutlet.com. “Water polo is a growing sport in National Team this summer,” said Terry the U.S., and we want to be there to facilitate its growth.” Schroeder, USA Men’s Senior National Team An entirely Web-based retailer, SwimOutlet.com covers nearly all areas of Head Coach. “This puts two of the best water aquatic competition while offering a varied collection of water polo-based polo minds in America together on the same products including suits, caps, balls, goals, and much more. The company team and gives our Junior team great leader- will have a presence at the annual Junior Olympics tournament with mer- ship heading into the World Championships chandise available on-site coupled with the ability to offer merchandise at this August.” other to-be-determined USA Water Polo events. “I am both excited and proud to be coaching the USA Junior team,” said iSport.com—an emerging social media destination for all athletes—offers Lynn. “I am very passionate about the process of building our young ath- an interactive community for water polo players worldwide. USA Water letes, and I’m looking forward to working with Guy and other colleagues Polo, in conjunction with iSport.com, will channel resources toward build- in preparing the future of USA water polo. Guy and I are taking this task ing an online social media presence for the masters’ community. Featur- very seriously, and we share the same philosophies. We will set very high ing player profiles, forums, instruction, and much more, the water polo standards for ourselves and expect the same from our athletes. I am eager branch of iSport.com will provide a special destination for the water polo to start and embrace the many challenges that await.” world. Access water polo on iSport.com at waterpolo.isport.com. “I am looking forward to this unique opportunity to coach with Robert,” said Baker. “Robert and I are dedicated water polo coaches. It has been enjoyable and enlightening talking water polo with Robert through the

usawaterpolo.org 11 WATER POLO TIMES News Briefs USA WATER POLO

® Water Polo CMO Jen Rottenberg. “Their support will no doubt be an im- Capital One to Serve as portant component to our National Teams’ preparations, but at the same time we are excited to welcome 24 Hour Fitness into the USA Water Polo Official Credit Card of USA community and are pleased that our membership will benefit from more Water Polo affordable access to these great facilities.” “I am extremely excited and thankful that 24 Hour Fitness has teamed Capital One®, a diversified up with USA Water Polo,” said USA Men’s National Team Goalkeeper bank that offers a broad ar- Merrill Moses. “This sponsorship will help our National Team athletes ray of financial products and get in great shape and maintain the proper physical preparation for the services to consumers, will World Championship games coming in Shanghai, China, in July 2011. As serve as the official credit a National Team athlete, this sponsorship gives me access to train anytime card of USA Water Polo. and almost anywhere I travel in the U.S. since there are so many 24 Hour This agreement will offer Fitness locations nationwide.” the members of USA Water Polo an opportunity to get water polo-themed credit cards with rewards “24 Hour Fitness is proud to support USA Water Polo and is dedicated to for purchasing everything from membership to merchandise. As an added helping the USA Water Polo Men’s and Women’s Senior National Teams bonus, Capital One will be making donations to USA Water Polo to fund train by providing state-of-the-art clubs that offer a variety of equipment, everything from Splashball™ to National Team training. amenities, and services they need to reach their full athletic potential,” said 24 Hour Fitness CMO Tony Wells. “As one of the largest support- “I am delighted to welcome Capital One to the USA Water Polo family,” ers of amateur athletics in the country, we continue to look for additional stated USA Water Polo CMO Jen Rottenberg. “Their range of credit prod- ways to support our nation’s athletes in addition to the USA Water Polo ucts is outstanding, and they have developed a custom card JUST for our fundraising program.” members. This is an amazing benefit for all of us, and we hope many of our members will take advantage of this great opportunity.” In the coming weeks www.usawaterpolo.org, the official Web site of USA Water Polo, will feature discounts and specials from 24 Hour Fitness. The members of USA Water Polo are diverse with varying credit needs. Working with Capital One®, the National Governing Body can now offer three unique credit products to meet those needs—a card that offers gener- ous rewards, an option with a low introductory APR, and a card to help Search Underway for Merrill build credit. Each card offers Visa® Platinum Benefits. To learn more and apply for a card, USA Water Polo members can go to Moses’ Stolen Olympic www.waterpolocard.com launching May 6. Once there members also can choose from a variety of designs to show off their passions for water polo Silver Medal and support of USA Water Polo. 2008 Olympian Merrill Moses Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Offered by Capital (Palos Verdes, CA/NYAC), a One, N.A. © 2011 Capital One. member of the Silver Medal- winning squad from the Beijing Olympic games, had his Silver Medal (along with several other family valuables) stolen over the 24 Hour Fitness and USA holidays. A search has begun for the medal and Sports Illustrated’s Brian Cazeneuve used a January Water Polo Announce column on SI.com to help get the word out. Partnership View the full column at http://www.usawaterpolo.org/press.aspx 24 Hour Fitness—the official fitness center sponsor of the 2012 U.S. Olym- pic and Paralympic Teams—has partnered with USA Water Polo. As part of the agreement, 24 Hour Fitness will provide memberships to the USA Correction: In the Winter 2010 issue we incorrectly identified Water Polo Men’s and Women’s Senior National Teams to support their the Irvington High School Varsity Boys water polo team from training for the 2011 FINA World Championships in Shanghai, China, Fremont, California referring to them as a team from Fresno, while also offering discounted memberships to USA Water Polo members. California. The Irvington team is pictured here. As an added bonus, each USA Water Polo member who joins the United States’ largest privately-owned fitness club chain will be making a dona- tion to USA Water Polo. The USA Water Polo Men’s and Women’s Senior National Teams won Silver Medals at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, and are pre- paring to qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. With more than 420 clubs nationwide, 24 Hour Fitness will provide these athletes with convenient access to training opportunities year-round. “24 Hour Fitness maintains a great variety of clubs, with many to choose from right here in Southern California, providing our elite athletes with access to the latest and best-maintained equipment available,” said USA

12

14 USA WATER POLO The Lathrope Family Breakfast ($1,000) Nuquest Ventures, LLC ($1,000) Lunch Wendt Family The Family Powers The Family Monsees The Michelle Ferretti Brandi Ralph Family Baldoni The ($1,000) Medal Bronze Inc. Productions, Figge Eric ($1,500) Cart Golf University Art of Academy ($1,500) Cart Beverage Pincus Warburg ($1,500) Bar Family Buckner The ($2,000) Medal Silver Management Ospraie ($2,500) Hats Golf Inc. Service, Physicians GeriNet ($5,000) Shirts Golf Union Credit Federal Air Sea Presenting ($7,500) Tournament Sponsors YouThank Our to

John Peters ($500) Chipping Contest Jon Easter Putting Contest ($500) John Peters ($500) Ball Range Windes &Betty Doug TagBag ($1,000)

ReCaps

Jessica Steffens Club Polo Water Stanford SimpsonMary Foundation Scinto &Francine Daniel The ScholarWarrior.net Schlatter & Nancy Craig Group Reynolds The Family Mathewson The Manke &Maureen Kevin Insurance Rice Lupke Lenzi &Geralyn Victor Lee Ellen Lacomb &Lee Peter Family Klein The Keith Jeffers, DC Insurance K&K Grossman &Linda Gerald Godek Jan Fattal &Maria Ron Fattal &Marleen Ghazi Jon Easter Family Dodson The Luca De Jackie Hart Lisa TV-Host OC Discover Dingeldein Margie Painting Cut-In-Edge Cafaro Geraldine Bleau R Joseph Bickerstaff &Glen Deborah Badgerbooks.com Beauty Apriori Antiwave Management Capital Venture A-S Sponsors Tee Sign all photos courtesy MaiLamall photos courtesy Big Red Bus Tours of Long Beach Long Toursof Bus Red Big Room &Tasting Winery Bianchi Chris Beeman Beck Jennifer Baldacci &Brenda Thomas Atherton Rian Tori Schladen) and (Jim Inc Arcadia, Beauty Apriori T. April Frances Ducks Anaheim Allen &Julie John Merchants Cigar 8Eightyeight Donors: Our YouThank to SuspensionTRX Training Sunny SleeveZ Small By Nature Jeans REUSE Chips Pop Sports Mikasa Tape KT Golfsmith Detour Bar Company Shave Brighton BookSwim Donors Bag Gift Wells Fargo Insurance Services Insurance Fargo Wells Vonderweidt Laurent of Offices Law The Villa Brenda Polo Water UCI Team Henderson/Vegas Stemilt ReCaps

John & Cindy Blake I-Flow Corporation (Rachel Stein) Heather Petri Unique Jewelry Bonanni Development (Ed Bonanni) Jennie Jacobsen-Huse PF Chang’s Restaurant University of California, Michael Boro Jamba Juice Margaret E. Powers Berkeley Athletics Bradford Portraits J.R. Watkins Natural Products Alexander Quaco Dr. David F. Urich Greg Brown Kaenon Sunglasses RF Associates North Inc. USA Judo John Budin Dana & Sandra Kafka (Robert Schwartz) Vashon Unlimiteds (Steve Payne) Ana Maria Burtin Betty Davies & Dana Kaland Leza & Scott Reed VIDA Organic Life Massage Cable Bay Vineyards Candace Keefe Ed Reynolds Village Associates Real Estate California Pizza Kitchen Genai Kerr Laura & Kevin Rhodes Vistaprint William and Candi Cecil Charles & Norma Kober Lawrence Ross Riddle VonZipper Howard B. Chapman Pam Kraus Samuel L. Riddle Patty Waasted Chilli’s Restaurant Kurt Krumpholz Roger Dunn Golf Shop Robert & Barbara Weikert Chipotle Mexican Grill Los Angeles Clippers Daniel Rosenthal Westin Mission Hills Resort Villas Alan Cima Los Angeles Galaxy Rowley Portraits Marcellus Wiley Claim Jumper Restaurant Los Angeles Kings Rusty Wallace Racing Steve Williams Penny Coley Los Angeles Lakers Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse James & Betty Willingham Corner Bakery Cafe Loyola Marymount University J. & V. Ruzic Becky Wills Corporate Recess Athletics Santa Ana Country Club (Brenda Glim) Wendy Lee SAS Safety Corp The Windes Family Corporate Pointe Dental Lululemon Athletica Julie Schneider Charles & Jane Wiser (Dr. Sandro T. Tomita) Manhattan Stitching John Schnugg J.R. Woodhull Corinna Cotsen Company Julia Schnugg John & Anne Martin Wortmann Dale Craig Gary & Karen Martin San Diego Chargers Shannon Wurster The Crossings at Carlsbad Mastro’s Ocean Club San Diego Marriott La Jolla Jim Cullingham Rick & Brenda McKee San Diego Padres Golf Culp Construction Company Michael McNamara Shannon’s Bayshore Irish- Tournament Sabine AmendaDaube Robert S. Miner American Bar Committee Rondi Davison & Steve Ballew Mission Wealth Management, LLC Leonard Sharenow Jennifer Adams (Seth Streeter) Dba Norton Construction Stu & Ann Sharf Guy Baker Montage Laguna Beach Resort Jennifer DeBoisblanc Tadd & Marilyn Sibley Claire Belden Monterey Peninsula Foundation The Dodson Family Gregory Silver Cathleen Davies Gilbert & Carolyn Montoya Hadi Farid Thomas R. Simpson Linda Gandy–Chair Warren Moon Peter & Sheila Feher Stacie Spector Inge Hergenrather Tom & Cheryll Moss Sidney & Ellen Friedman Spotterz Bob Kraus Mozambique Restaurant Golden State Warriors Starbucks Coffee Company Pam Kraus Carole Van Muijen Hampton Salon Stephanie’s Luxury Hair Jeremy Laster Barbara Nesbitt Harbor Physical Therapy & Cheryl Steward Bev Lathrope Sports Medicine Richard & Patricia Obeck Stonecastle Land & Home Financial, Inc. Brenda McKee Hard Rock Café Oggi’s Pizza & Brewery Company Doug Strode Rick McKee John & Heather Haug Old Ranch Country Club Hardy M. Strozier, III, Inc. Greg Mescall Michelle Haun The Olympic Club Sunny SleeveZ Michelle Pickering-Baker John & Sara Hendrickson Jennifer L. Overett Taylor Made Jen Rottenberg Hennessey’s Tavern Peet’s Coffee & Tea Nick Ternasky Ken South George & Edith Hill Dennis & Ann Elizabeth Pender Time Capsule Press Kate Strand Sami Hill Peppino’s Italian Family UCLA Athletics Restaurant Robyn Varellas Hue Salon Sheryl Ulin& Lynn Schachinger Perry’s Restaurant usawaterpolo.org 15 ReCaps USA WATER POLO

Members from all across the United States were honored at the annual USA Water Polo Awards dinner. USA Water Polo Annual Awards Recognize

USA Water Polo’s Assembly and Annual and Men’s two-time Olympian Adam Wright. sociation Conference Championship and earn Awards Dinner were held at the Hilton One of the definite highlights, however, was a berth in the NCAA Championships. At the Costa Mesa (CA) in January. Prior to the the awards presentation. This dinner brings to- NCAA’s premier event, the Lions took fourth awards ceremony, several meetings and gether water poloists from all over the country place which included a victory over defending presentations took place involving a vari- to be honored for their outstanding work over champion UCLA. At the helm of the 18U Los Angeles Water Polo girls squad, Witt coached ety of members of the water polo commu- the prior year. Winners are chosen through a zone-nomination process and reviewed by a the group to a Gold Medal at the S & R Sport nity. In conjunction with the Assembly, Junior Olympics. Earlier in the summer Witt the first-ever USA Water Polo Referee national selection panel. The following are the well-deserving 2010 recipients: took the 20U squad and Open Division group School also took place. from L.A. Water Polo and snagged two more The U.S. Olympic Committee’s CEO, Scott Monte Nitzkowski Distinguished Gold Medals at the USA Water Polo National Blackmun, kicked off the weekend with an ad- Men’s Coaching Award (Elite) Championships. dress highlighting his vision for the USOC, his James Graham, University Bill Barnett Distinguished Men’s Coaching thoughts on the relationship between the USOC of the Pacific Award (Scholastic) and National Governing Bodies (e.g., USA Wa- Graham piloted the University of the Pacific Dan Leyson, Rose Bowl ter Polo), and some of the outstanding work USA Water Polo Water Polo has done in recent years. Men’s Water Polo team to a breakout season that placed it among the elite of men’s collegiate “USA Water Polo and all 34,000 of its members water polo. Building from a top-10 ten preseason Leyson has been a driving force in the growth have so much more to be proud of,” Blackmun ranking, Graham led the Tigers to victories over of the Rose Bowl Club based in Pasadena, CA. said, “but first and foremost is the great success sixth-ranked LMU and 11th-ranked UC San As coach of the 16U and 18U boys, Leyson had of your athletes in the pool. You look at the two Diego before pulling off perhaps a program- teams in the top-10 at the Junior Olympics Silver Medals in Beijing, you look at the fact defining victory, toppling third-ranked Stanford while also claiming first place at the South that your Women’s Team has just won a World in Palo Alto. The squad rose as high as fourth Florida International Tournament, U.S. Club Championship and is ranked number one in the in the CWPA rankings, a first in the program’s Championships, and the City of Commerce world, and your men’s team is poised for great history before finishing seventh at the MPSF International Tournament. Leyson also guided success in London. By all accounts this is one tourney. the 16U squad to first place in the Ironman of best-run NGBs [National Governing Bodies] League where a Rose Bowl athlete was named that we see.” Sandy Nitta Distinguished MVP. With a focus on development, Leyson Women’s Coaching Award (Elite) saw five 18U Rose Bowl players graduate to Presentations were offered concerning Junior Kyle Witt, Los Angeles Division I last year alone, and both Rose Bowl Olympics, sport development, ODP, marketing, Water Polo and Loyola boys and girls have been active in ODP with along with a report from USA Water Polo CEO Marymount University one youth and one junior player advancing to Christopher Ramsey and the USA Water Polo the national level. He’s also been a key piece of Board of Directors. The weekend was capped Witt turned in a banner year on both the club the women’s program which fielded teams in with an update concerning the National Teams and collegiate circuit. In the spring he saw his 2010 in all Junior Olympics age groups for the from Women’s Head Coach Adam Krikorian LMU Lions win the Western Water Polo As- first time. 16 ReCaps

Referee Marc Rauchwarger was honored posthumously as top developmental referee. His daughter Jamie was on hand to receive the honor in his name.

SoCal was again honored as the top club receiving the Chairman’s Cup. The first USA Water Polo referee school was also part of the week- end. Visiting FINA referee Boris Margeta is joined to his right by USA Water Polo’s Jim Cullingham and Steve Rotsart.

Excellent Efforts In 2010

Doc Hunkler Distinguished Brent Bohlender Distinguished Women’s Tom Hermstad Distinguished Women’s Coaching Award (Scholastic) Coaching Award (Developmental) Referee Award (Scholastic) Carroll Vaughan, Miami Ed Reynolds, SoCal Don Lewis Riptides Water Polo and Water Polo ODP Not only has Lewis been on the refereeing scene A staple for many years with the SoCal Water for many years, he has excelled at virtually every Vaughan’s age-group club team, the Riptides, Polo club, Reynolds has helped mold young level and opportunity that has come his way. A have been highly successful at national competi- athletes toward commitment to and passion for veteran of many scholastic and USA Water Polo tions since its creation. Her athletes have always the game, guiding the 14U Girls squad to Gold championship events, Lewis also has been very represented the sport with respect and honor, at the 14U Champions Cup last fall. Last sum- involved in the development of referees, most further underscoring the values of good sports- mer Reynolds and SoCal were among the elite, recently as the driving force behind referee manship she coaches and lives by. Last year she competing for medals at the Junior Olympics. education and training in the Mountain Zone, was honored with the ODP Regional Coach of Outside of coaching Reynolds also lends his specifically in his home State of Utah. the Year award for her outstanding leadership time to USA Water Polo, serving on the Board Aaron Chaney Distinguished and hard work in the Olympic Development of Directors. Referee Award (Developmental) Program. Vaughan’s leadership has created Bret Bernard Distinguished Marc Rauchwarger several opportunities for young women in her Referee Award (Elite) posthumous school environment, club program, in the South Alex Stankevitch East zone, and at the collegiate and national- Rauchwarger was one of those rare and team levels. Stankevitch continued his ascent as one of the treasured referees who possessed so many Ted Newland Distinguished top international and domestic referees in 2010. intangible factors that make a good referee Men’s Coaching Award (Developmental) The East Region Referee Instructor for USA Wa- even better. He truly had a passion for the game ter Polo, Stankevitch has officiated the last four and all involved, including players of all ages Chad Arnold, Kingfish and abilities, as well as coaches and his fellow Water Polo and ODP NCAA finals (Men/Women), including the 2009 and 2010 NCAA Men’s Championship Final officials. One can’t begin to count the number A man of many hats in the Pennsylvania water games and the 2009 NCAA Women’s Champi- of hours Marc volunteered and miles he drove polo community, Arnold is an ODP head coach, onship Final game. Recognized by the CWPA as over the years for nothing other than the bet- club coach with Kingfish, and a scholastic Referee of the Year in 2003, 2008, and 2009, he terment and development of the game. Always coach with Governor Mifflin High School; he’s was also called upon to referee the 2010 Fisher the first to step up for opportunities to work on also helped promote and grow the sport in the Cup and Men’s 20U National Championships. his craft, he also was eager to help facilitate the Keystone State. His history includes a stellar Internationally, Stankevitch was the American development of players whenever and wherever coaching career at Governor Mifflin and then official at the 2010 FINA World League Super he could. Marc led by example and gave of the University of Massachusetts during some of Final hosted by USA Water Polo. himself constantly for the good of us all. its most competitive seasons. In addition Arnold was selected as the top ODP coach at the boys (Continued on page 18) 2010 East-West Regional Championships. usawaterpolo.org 17 ReCaps USA WATER POLO USA Water Polo Annual Awards

Barbara Kalbus Distinguished age divisions. A coach for La Costa Canyon in through the years. The team was among the Volunteer Award the San Diego area, Sheehy also coaches in ODP first to play in older age divisions with multiple Scott Killinger and competed in the Top-40 event last fall. teams as well as abroad in several FINA World Burke/Ratkovic Zone Service Award Championships. It has attracted players from Killinger has served the Northeast Zone of USA all over to compete in USA Water Polo Masters Water Polo as treasurer for more than 15 years. Brad Peercy, Mountain Nationals and continues to provide players for An architect by profession, Killinger ensured the Zone other teams to continue competition. While not zone’s solid financial stewardship and provided as highly decorated as other clubs, the Califor- Peercy is the 2011 Burke/Ratkovic Zone chair of guidance to multiple zone chairs and boards nia Old Boys epitomize the Masters spirit and the year. Peercy was the first Zone Chair when through his years of service. Killinger has dis- continue to knock down the age barriers for the Mountain Zone formed in 2003 and contin- played a gentle manner, ethical governance, Masters play. ues in this role while maintaining his positions boundless generosity (personally carrying the as head coach for Kearns (UT) Water Polo Club USA Water Polo Chairman’s Cup zone in lean times), and thorough professional- and Kearns High School, as well as aquatics ism. Killinger also selflessly agreed to continue SoCal Water Polo manager at Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Cen- in his role so he can assist the new zone lead- ter. Under his leadership, the Mountain Zone 2010 was another outstanding year for SoCal ership make a full transition and will soon be was the fastest growing zone last year and has water polo that saw impressive performance retiring from all zone duties. participated in all USAWP programs, includ- across all age groups and genders. The highlights Bryan Weaver Master of the Year Award ing Splashball, as well as some of the largest US included the girls squad taking home Gold at the Kathy “Gubba” Sheehy Leagues programs, including Masters clubs and 14U Champions Cup while the 18U boys grabbed tournaments. Gold at the S & R Sport Junior Olympics. Not to 2010 was a big year for Sheehy. The 2000 Olympic be overlooked, the 14U boys and 14U girls locked Masters Club of the Year Silver Medalist was inducted into the USA Wa- down Silver at Junior Olympics while the 12U ter Polo Hall of Fame and in the same weekend California Old Boys boys grabbed Bronze. At the Men’s and Women’s helped guide the OMBAC Masters Club in a vari- 20U Championships, SoCal took home Silver to The California Old Boys are being recognized ety of age groups at the USA Water Polo Masters cap an outstanding summer of competition. as the first-ever Masters Club of the Year in Nationals. Sheehy won a Gold Medal in the 20+ 2010 largely for advocating older athletes play division and a Silver Medal in the 30+ and 40+

PLAY HARDER

AVOID INJURY

RECOVER FASTER

FOR COMMON INJURIES Rotator Cuff Strain ITBS: Knee Elbow Pain HamstringStrain Knee Pain BackPain STAYS ON IN THE POOL

15% OFF Visit kttape.com/pro and enter offer code: USAWP09

Visit www.kttape.com for more information

18 ReCaps

ODP Regional Championships Complete: National Training & Selection Camp Rosters Announced Boys 11th Grade U Boys 9th Grade U Boys 8th Grade U Girls 11th Grade U Girls 9th Grade U Girls 8th Grade U First Name Last Name Zone First Name Last Name Zone First Name Last Name Zone First Name Last Name Zone First Name Last Name Zone First Name Last Name Zone Southern California Southern California Southern California Southern California Southern California Southern California Nick Hoy CST Dominick Beaudine CST Steven Cagle CST Mackenzie Barr SPA Kacey Avalos SPA Georgia Bogle CST Adam Abdulhamid CST Luke Ceverha CST Justin Contreras CST Ivana Castro CST Sydney Blubaugh SPA Anastacia Gonzalez CST Jesse Camou CST Jake Cvrtilk CST Spencer Farrar CST India Forster CST Julianna Burke SPA Jenna Hurst CST Connor Farris CST Jake Davis CST Ben Hallock CST Morgan Hallock CST Tess Burney SPA Roberta Martin CST Jamie Kuprenas CST Pierce Deamer CST Johnny Hooper CST Aleah Halverson SPA Jacqueline Bywater SPA Allison Woo CST Danny McClintick CST Brock Gordon CST Ed Jeon CST Charlotte Hendrix CST Natalie Chun PSW Alaina Cousineau SPA Henry McNamara CST Benjamin Harvey CST Grant LaBounty CST Daniela Hernandez CST Rebecca Corb SPA Kayla Constandse SPA Chancelor Ramirez CST Matt Jarvis CST Matt Olson CST Kodiane Hill CST Brianna Daboub SPA Nicole Daurio SPA Adam Sarrail CST Cory Laidig CST Blake Parrish CST Julia Kirkland SPA Madison Delgado SPA Emily Konishi SPA Alec Zwaneveld CST Skylar Matthews CST Matthew Perez CST Alexandra Loveless CST Meghan Engh SPA Madeline Musselman SPA Ben Rogers CST Spencer Rogers CST Anthony Ridgeley CST Christiana Manzella SPA Abigail Goveia SPA Somer Piper SPA Ikko Saito CST Murphy Slater CST Gage Stroman CST Lauren McCaslin CST Devin Grab CST Julia Sellers SPA Steve Tedson CST Zach Traversi CST Connor Talleur CST Claire Mckinnon SPA Sydney Groot SPA Emily Skelly SPA Baron McQuin SPA Bryce Charles PSW Sean Thomas CST Madison McLaren SPA Scarlett Hallahan PSW Hannah Thompson SPA Garrett Danner SPA Jordan Colina PSW Noah Walter CST Alexandra Musselman SPA Betsy Hendrix CST Delaney Parks CST Benjamin Churnside SPA Thomas Higginson PSW Ryan Wilson CST Stephanie Mutafyan SPA Alexis Hollinrake SPA Kathleen Roan CST Kent Inoue SPA Bryce Hoerman PSW Evan Elig PSW Sandonica Mwagi SPA Lindsey Kelleher CST Abigael Blake SPA Chandler J. Stickney SPA Thomas Appel SPA Noah Tiu PSW Ashtynn Nelsen SPA Bridgette Kimbrough SPA Karlee Kraft SPA Preston Lee SPA Justin Cowan SPA Marko Vukojevic PSW Jamie Neushul CST Lauren Norheim SPA Julie Luna SPA Daniel Stevens SPA Josh Hartshorne SPA Griffin Chappell SPA Kelsey O’Brien CST Christina O’Beck SPA Kira O’Donell CST Jon Walters SPA Kenneth Keller SPA Kian Falah SPA Cassidy Papa SPA Lizette Perez CST Julia Boland SPA James Walters SPA Mitchell Mendoza SPA Michael Garas SPA Kayla Robert SPA Jordan Raney CST Alana Gans SPA Curtis Fink SPA Massimo Navarretta SPA Chase Hamming SPA Meghan Rowland SPA Samantha Snow CST Sarah Sheldon SPA Will Weggeland SPA Troy Oates SPA Stephen Marcin SPA Pippa Saunders SPA Arianna St. Oegger CST Rachel Whitelegge SPA Kevin Levine PSW Tristan Reinhardt SPA William Monjay SPA Candyce Schroeder SPA Julie Swieca SPA Elizabeth Karl CST Blake Lee PSW Morio Saito SPA Gavin Scott SPA Nicole Stansfield SPA Alessandra Vilches CST Carlee Kapana SPA Ryder Roberts PSW Ben Schleuniger SPA Nick Silvers SPA Monica Vavic CST Paige Virgil SPA Holly Parker SPA Robert Beck PSW Preston Shore SPA Samuel Thompson SPA Haley Wan SPA Avery Warwick SPA Annabella Baldridge SPA Max Schultz SPA Grant Stein SPA Max Weber SPA Jessica Webster SPA Jessica Ybarra CST Ellie Reid SPA Northern California Grady Williams SPA Alexander Wolf SPA Alys Williams SPA Sarah Young PSW Makenzie Fischer SPA Alex Gow PAC Northern California Northern California Northern California Northern California Chanel Schilling SPA Drew Holland PAC Garrett Fisk CEN Jeff Stark CEN Elizabeth Anderson PAC Alexandra Alving CEN Northern California Davis Clute PAC Graham Fullerton CEN Nick Giancanelli CEN Bryce Beckwith CEN Caroline Anderson PAC Hannah Buck PAC Mathew Godar PAC Max Cusator CEN Ian Brady CEN Mary Brooks CEN Courtney Batcheller PAC Sophia Burgess CEN Justin Roberto PAC Nicholas Carniglia CEN Zack Scudder CEN Erin Donoghue PAC Nicole Blaney CEN Kristen Denney PAC Charlie Wiser PAC Noah Deer HI Kanoa Kaleoaloha HI Skylar Dorosin PAC Celeste Brown CEN Mara Dominguez CEN Jack Fellner PAC Ollie Lewis HI Conrad McCarthy CEN Gracie Fowler PAC Bridget Grossi PAC Kayla Ganir HAW Andrew Schnugg PAC Walker Bolan HI Easton Manson HI Taitum Herrington CEN Aelish Guinn CEN Dagmar Gudmundson CEN Robbie Fluegge PAC Colin Chiapello PAC Patrick Delos Santos HI Rachel Johnson CEN Kiana Harpstrite HAW Kristen Hong PAC Thomas Carroll PAC Conor Neumann PAC Charlie Rogers PAC Danielle Johnson PAC Marriette Harris PAC Kimberly Johnson PAC Adam Warmoth PAC Gabe Ostler PAC Nelson Perla-Ward PAC Marisa Kolokotronics CEN Annika Jensen PAC Katherine Johnston PAC John Speros PAC Grant Sivesind PAC Nick Bisconti PAC Jaime Malot CEN Heather Johnson CEN Katherine Klass PAC John Neumann CEN Jon Hillman PAC Trevor Raisch PAC Courtney Miller HAW Chase Lanier PAC Rachael Lewin PAC Graham McClone CEN Mitchell Young PAC Tommy Baier PAC Rachel Mitchell PAC Morgan McCracken PAC Maigre McDougal CEN Michael Woodbury CEN Rishab Hegde PAC John Knox PAC Molly Quinn PAC Katherine Moore PAC Mckenna Martin CEN Jack Dubois CEN Ryan McCracken PAC Jake Simpson PAC Olivia Santiago PAC Lauren Owens CEN Alyssa Mueller PAC Connor Stapleton CEN Sam Toriggino PAC Jordan Hoover PAC Natalie Seidemann PAC Christina Samson CEN Brooke Presten PAC David Ring CEN Spencer Creed PAC David Kessler PAC Pippa Temple PAC Riley Shaw PAC Colby Stapleton CEN Alex Kuykendall CEN Stephen Cho PAC Matt Horner PAC Allie Thomason PAC Averi Westerman PAC Natalie Steinkamp CEN Brock Ivancovich CEN Tommy Bush PAC Jack Pickard PAC Carla Tocchini PAC Kiana yamashiro HAW Samantha Tovani PAC Connor Kennedy CEN Tyler Kirchberg PAC East Brooke Vowell CEN Marisa Zanobini CEN Julianne Zanobini CEN East East Thomas Dunstan NE East East East James Baker NE Geoffery Berger MW Danny Farmer MW Madison Andres NE Claire Baxter NE Sofia C-Justiz SE Eric Chrisolm MW Jonathan Chow SE Eric Goldenberg SE Julia Campbell MW Cara Borkovec MW Alexandra Chow MW Herzen Cortez SE Stephen Cress MW Alexander Guerra SE Audry Chien MW Katie Dudley MW Aidan Dick NE Sean Daley NE Julian Fraser NE Andres Guerra SE Caroline Israels SE Anagabriella Guerra SE Esma Dollaku NE Matt Farmer MW Chase Koplow SE Ryan Guso SE Danijela Jackovich MW Annam Iyer NE Andrea Guerra SE James Hulsebus MW Mack Neary NE Greg Kinzler NE Ashleigh Johnson SE Hollis Jomo NE Alexandra Guerra SE Derek Igesias SE Christian Olaya NE Ryan Masi MW Chelsea Johnson SE Mackenzie Klee NE Stephanie Lopez MW Richard Moore SE Kade Ramirez NE Andrew Mavis NE Kirby Kaptur MW Alexa Ovalle MW Cara Mullery SE Grant Morris MW Jack Robinson NE Max Staresinic NE Kelly Martin SE Hannah Schultz MW Samantha Rosenberg SE Mike Mulcrone MW Matt Skawronski NE Evan Staton SE Sophia Monaghan NE Rebecca Serrano SE Quinn Scannell NE Zach Presto NE Harrison Tafur SE Holden Tamblyn MW Camila Schafer SE Emma Soderquist NE Rachel Sodokoff NE Zack Smith MW Michael Walk SE West Gabriella Serure SE Catie Wallace MW Emily Wickenheiser NE West West Skyler Chavone MTN West West West Kevin Anderson MTN Jared Castillo SW Derek DeFusco MTN Melissa Bergeson MTN Alex Alcock MTN Madison Berggren PNW Adam Parkinson MTN Corey Dale MTN Joey DeFusco MTN Alysha Bush PNW Molly Edison PNW Hannah Harm MTN Brendan Sarnecky MTN Devin Kahl MTN Nik Galvan MTN Kayla Crocco MTN Santana Garcia MTN Jordan Hummingbird SW Ben Stevenson MTN Bryce Pearson MTN Andre Hines MTN Alyssa Cuda SW Alisa Gouge MTN Julia Johnson SW Sam Huff MTN Nate Peercy MTN Tyler Nielson MTN Keely Dulaney SW Helen Hammon SW Micall Johnson SW Nate Zuiker SW Max Taylor MTN Tristan Spoerri MTN Brigitta Games MTN Kayanna Hefner PNW Zoe Linford PNW Brendan Metcalf SW Stephen Kennedy PNW Noah Thorson MTN Brittany Haley SW Micall Mash MTN Gloria McWilliams SW Liam Jennis SW Blake Hokkanen PNW Jorge Aguirre MTN Bryn Hudson PNW Katherine McDonnell PNW Alana Ponce PNW Kale Rogers PNW David Stiling PNW Cole Pollina SW Eleanor Marrs MTN Madison Merrill MTN Taylor Thorne MTN Matthew McKaig PNW Landry Saunders PNW Royce LaVerne SW Sydney Nguyen MTN Adrienne Summers MTN Nicole Van Leeuwen MTN Spencer McMaster PNW Miguel Davila SW Taylor Silva SW Annabelle Wagner SW Samantha Walker MTN Timothy Simenc SW Kelsey Smeding MTN Alexis Walker MTN Erin Williams SW April Snodgrass PNW usawaterpolo.org 19 20 With Betsey Armstrong: Team USA’s Starting Goalie Continues Rise On International Stage

Starting goalkeeper for the USA Women’s National Team, Eliza- before us in the program I think it was incredibly meaningful for us to beth “Betsey” Armstrong is in the midst of a pretty impressive bring home a title that will be valued for a long time to come. run. Since rejoining the National Team in 2006, she’s become one of the elites of international women’s water polo. The Ann SS: You had a huge penalty block to help claim the World League Super Final and then Arbor, MI, native and University of Michigan graduate burst several big saves to stop Australia in the World Cup Final. What are your memories of these upon the international scene in the spring of 2007 at the FINA moments? World Championships. There Armstrong was named the tour- ney’s top goalkeeper en route to a Gold Medal for Team USA. BA: Australia is such a great opponent for us. Anytime we face them Since then all that followed were three FINA World League Su- in a major tournament, we always know it will be a tough, physical match. per Final crowns, an Olympic Silver Medal, another FINA World There’s a great rivalry, and we always see them a lot throughout the Championship, and a FINA World Cup Gold Medal. course of competition. It was a thrill for me to help my team defensively where I could. That string of success is no coincidence. It’s part of the USA Women’s National Team’s nearly decade-long run of consistency. For Armstrong the individual honors have been nearly as frequent as the champion- SS: As one of the veterans on the team now, do you see yourself as a more of a leader? How ships. Named Swimming World’s 2009 top female water polo player, has the group grown over the last two years under new Head Coach Adam Krikorian? FINA Magazine bestowed the same honor on her in 2010. A finalist for the Women in Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year award, BA: I think there are definitely certain ways in which I lead, however Armstrong was among 12 teammates who graced the cover of ESPN the I’m still constantly learning from my teammates as well. I think now that Magazine’s “Body Issue.” we’re a few years into the quadrennial that the group is really starting SkipShot got a chance to catch up with Betsey not long ago, and she to come together as a team. Anytime you transition through personnel discussed her path through the international water polo scene, athletic changes, whether it’s coaches or players, there’s always a period of adjust- success, and her love of music. ment. But now we’re all getting much more comfortable with our roles.

SkipShot: On the heels of another great year for the USA Women’s Senior SS: What makes Team USA so strong? How is the squad—regardless of which players play in National Team, you are named FINA Magazine’s Female Water Polo Player of the Year. What does which events—always able to contend for a Gold Medal? this honor mean to you? BA: As I mentioned before, there’s a standard within USA Water Polo Betsey Armstrong: I’m incredibly honored for this that was set long before most of us joined the program. We are incredibly award and feel it’s a testament to our entire team. We’ve had a phenom- fortunate for this legacy, and everyone comes in with an understanding enal year, and it’s truly a reflection of how we united throughout the of the work that went into establishing this. We’ve come together as a course of the summer. team in many different ways with new faces this summer. Everyone wants to work hard, and everyone wants to compete—the fact that we have all these players willing to do so makes us more interchangeable. SS: After the great year in 2009, how was the team able to replicate that success in 2010, especially with so many new faces? SS: How do you describe your rise as a player? You had a breakout 2007 and over the last several years have become one of the elite goalkeepers in the world. Is it something you BA: At the beginning of the summer we really hit the ground expected? running. Everyone came prepared to work hard and improve. I think everyone who was a part of this really understands that at this level one can never get complacent or take anything for granted. The new faces BA: I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have played with some of the brought a fresh energy to the pool, and we all came together to continue best players in the world and under some of the best coaches in the world. striving for the standard that past teams have set for us. My ability to go as far as I have in water polo is completely credited to my team and our program. When I returned to water polo in 2006, I came with an open mind and to see how I could contribute my skills. It’s been SS: What was it like to win a World Cup for Team USA knowing they hadn’t captured Gold an amazing experience thus far. since 1979? SS: In American water polo, you’ve come from off the beaten path through the state of BA: The USA has such a strong history of winning medals at major Michigan. Do you take pride in rising to the elite level of water polo upon somewhat a road tournaments, and we as a team didn’t want this summer to be any dif- less-traveled? ferent for us. There has been such an outstanding precedent set by those (continued on page 22)

usawaterpolo.org 21 BA: Absolutely. I believe all water polo players need to know that they BA: It’s been a very busy year. The outside-the-pool stuff has again can go all the way in the sport, regardless of what state they come from been great for our program. As the Pan American and Olympic Games or where they go to school. I believe the more we can get kids playing the approach, it always seems to get busier. Our team has had an incredible sport all over the country, the more successes our program will continue few years but still has a long way to go. The various events and awards for to have. this year are a reflection of the amazing supporters our team has, and where we want to go over these next 18 months. SS: You got out of water polo after college and then made that decision to give it another go with the National Team. Do you ever reflect back on that? And what are your thoughts on where SS: 2011 is a huge year for the team with an opportunity to earn a berth in the Olympics and that decision has taken you? the Pan American Games. How much do events like these and the upcoming World Championships motivate you and the team? BA: I often think back on this experience as a whole, my path. I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to return to the sport after college, BA: Games and tournaments are always motivating. They’re a chance and that I had a team that welcomed me along. In many ways I don’t to really put our training to the test. We have a lot lined up for 2011; it’s believe I’d be playing today if I didn’t have that time to truly reflect on going to be a very important year for us for training and competition what my goals were within the sport. purposes. I think everyone is looking forward to getting right to work.

SS: 2010 was a big year for you. Along with two Gold Medals, you were a finalist for the SS: The 2008 Olympics saw a Silver Medal for the United States. Despite all the recent Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year, graced the cover of ESPN the Magazine, and success, as another Olympics approaches, are you able to use that 2008 event as a source of were recognized as a champion by the New York Athletic Club. What do you take away from some inspiration? of the outside-the-pool stuff? BA: Absolutely. At this level every major competition is meaning- ful, and I often think back on my experience in Beijing as competitions approach. There’s such a feeling of unity that comes with the Olympic Games; it’s an incredibly inspiring goal to work toward.

SS: As you and the team begin the road toward the Olympics, how does the team stay humble considering its recent achievements while remaining hungry for future goals?

BA: As I mentioned before, our team has a great understanding of how, at this level, nothing can be taken for granted. We have incredibly competitive opponents and face teams that make close games with any outcome possible. We’re all working hard to play the greatest water polo we can play, regardless of who we’re playing or in what tournament. This KAENON POLARIZED IS PROUD TO SUPPORT program’s work ethic continually drives us. USA WATER POLO IN ITS MISSION TO GROW THE SPORT AND WIN GOLD AT THE 2012 OLYMPICS. SS: What keeps water polo fun for you?

YOU CAN HELP TOO. USA Water Polo members can BA: The game is always changing, and I’m always being challenged. take 15% off any purchase made at kaenon.com and Kaenon As an athlete, I never know completely what’s coming in my sport, but I will donate a portion of your sale directly to USA Water love playing with my teammates and for my coaches, playing competitive Polo. Simply log on to www.kaenon.com and select items games, and seeing the world. to add to your cart. Enter your exclusive coupon code h2opolo15 and click the “apply” button. Your discount will apply immediately, and you will help to grow water SS: Lastly, you are a noted fan of all kinds of music. What are five bands/singers everyone polo and help Team USA in their quest for Gold in 2012! should check out?

BA: Well, some of these are probably pretty obvious, but my current www.kaenon.com favorites are: Jay-Z, Kid Cudi, LCD Soundsystem, Best Coast, Manu Chao, and Mason Jennings.

22

9:00 AM with Annika Dries 2:30 PM Women’s Senior National Team–Stanford University, February 10, 2011, Palo Alto, CA

6:30 PM

8:00 AM

8:30 AM

8:00am: Wake up to find my door decorated by my friend 11:00am: Chem 131: Organic chem; the professor is for my birthday! awesome and works at Genentech making drugs to save lives; also has “CMOTW” (a.k.a. Cool Molecule of the Week). 8:30am: Eat breakfast with my roommate: bagel and smoothie. 12:00pm: Lunch with friends back at the Tridelta sorority house, my current residence here at Stanford. 9:00am-11:00am: Human Biology Core—two awesome classes about everything having to do with 1:00pm: Study time/chill out in the house courtyard be- being human from the departments of biology to sociology tween lunch and practice. (I plan to major in HumBio with a focus on genetics and/or health policy). 2:30pm: Practice at Avery Aquatic Center. I love this pool!

9:50am: In between lecturers is a 10-minute break, during 6:30pm: Dinner at Cheesecake Factory with the team. which I was serenaded with a performance of—you guessed it—“Happy Birthday”. 9:00pm: Back to the house to relax, study, and get ready for morning weights.

usawaterpolo.org 25 The Water Polo Scene

Above & Left: This past February the USA Women’s Senior National Team traveled to Coronado, California to take part in a workout conducted by the U.S. Navy SEALs.

Above: Justin Serian, a referee from the Southeast Zone pro- moting USA Water Polo while in Antarctica for work. Left: The 18U boys from the Palos Verdes Water Polo Club took first place in the “A” division of the recent Winterfest tour- nament held in Southern California.

Above: Former NFL star and current Right: Team USA’s Lolo ESPN personality Marcellus Wiley Silver was honored earlier joined the Women’s Senior National this year as the Aquatics Team at practice on a recent week- Capital of America’s day in Los Alamitos, CA. Athlete of the Year in Long Beach, CA.

Left: The Stanford water polo family joined forces for the C3 Tournament to benefit Caroline Hansen, a Stanford club member who suffered injuries in a car accident last fall. Learn more at www.stanfordwaterpolo.com.

26 She’s competed for her country all over episode, themed “Winter Wipeout,” in the hills water polo, but it was fun on the show to mess north of Los Angeles; it aired in early January. with some of the other contestants. In the pool I the globe. In front of hostile crowds, strictly used my skills to intimidate opponents.” pressure mounting, with Olympic-sized Armed with years of water polo and swim- ming skills, Gregorka opened her appearance Despite falling short of the grand prize— success on the line, yet few things on the program donning a silver medal. After Gregorka finished fourth, with the top-three could have prepared 2008 Olympic some playful back and forth with the host— advancing to the final round—it was an all- Silver Medalist Alison Gregorka for her including a dropped medal—the games were around great experience. “I think this show underway. “Many people thought that was has made me much more famous than my trip turn on the ABC game show Wipeout. my real medal, which makes me laugh,” said to the Olympics!” she said. “Many people have Gregorka. “But don’t worry it was just a prop.” called, emailed, or sent texts about it.” As for the If you’ve never watched it, the TV show basically physical aspect of things, it wasn’t as bad as it demands physical skills most people never have Wipeout can be a downright brutal game. The might have appeared: “Since I watch the show to use (which explains why so few succeed). For obstacle courses and other events leave most religiously, I prepared myself to feel completely Gregorka—a huge fan of the obstacle course/ contestants knocked into next week by trap physical challenge-based show—it was right up her alley.

By Greg Mescall Olympian Alison Gregorka Tests Her Mettle On

destroyed afterward, but it wasn’t as bad as I ex- doors, slick surfaces, and giant (albeit, padded) pected. I must say the doors of ‘Nana’s House’ “I love watching the show,” said Gregorka via email moving appendages. In addition contestants are and the hurdles were the worst of the bunch.” from her home in Oregon. “I find it hilarious, so allowed no test run of the course; Gregorka noted I decided it to give it a try. In addition, I thought I that “they set you up to fail—or in this case, fall.” With Wipeout under her belt Gregorka has had a REALLY good chance to win the $50,000.” Each big fall ends with a trip into the murky liq- her sights set on The Amazing Race (someday uid below, something benefitting this water polo anyway). For now she’s spreading the water Gregorka, a native of Ann Arbor, MI, joined player. “All of my swimming really prepared me polo word, coaching in Portland, and work- the Women’s National Team via Stanford for the first and third courses, because as soon ing at an after-school program with hopes of University and was a key defender in a four- as you fell off an obstacle, you had to swim to a full-time teaching job in the near future. year run that garnered two World Champi- get back on,” she explained, “I think my speed onships and an Olympic Silver Medal. After gave me an advantage.” (Indeed Gregorka And if nothing else, she has Wipeout memo- retiring from international water polo follow- posted the fastest time on the opening course.) ries to share with friends and family. “My ing the 2009 World Championships, Grego- grandma was probably the funniest because she rka found her next big challenge on Wipeout. The two-time World Champion added a com- thought that I was crazy,” Gregorka said. “After petitive atmosphere to the program as well. watching it, she turned to my aunt and said, She applied online and was called for an inter- While some contestants just wanted to see how ‘What was she thinking when she did that?’” view. It’s not every day that Olympic medalists they would fare, Gregorka was in it to win it, drop into the game-show scene, and before long outlasting her fellow contestants on the “ski To see Alison Gregorka’s appearance on Gregorka was chosen for the show. She taped the lift” event and winning $1,000. She even talked the “Winter Wipeout” episode, visit a little smack: “I was never a trash talker in www.youtube.com/usawp.

usawaterpolo.org 27 2011 NIKE WATER POLO CAMPS co-ed camps open to all ability levels—overnight and day camp options available

San Diego State University June 23-26 (Carin Crawford)

University of California, Santa Cruz June 26-30 (Kim Musch & Randy Whitchurch)

California State University, Bakersfield July 10-13 (Jason Gall & Genai Kerr)

University of California, Irvine July 17-26 (Marc Hunt, Genai Kerr & Marco Gerini)

Genai Kerr, USA Olympian Guest speaking and demonstrating 1-800-NIKE CAMP drills at each location USSPORTSCAMPS.COM Premier water polo camp for girls and boys 12 and up. Celebrating 26 years of excellence. The Camp of Champions is proudly hosted by Olympic medal-winning coaches Monte Nitzkowski and Ken Lindgren. For 26 years the Camp of Champions has helped prepare many of the nation’s finest high school and collegiate players -- over 15 of which have gone on to represent the United States in the Olympic Games. What to Expect • Medal-winning Olympic (men’s and women’s) and college coaches doing hands- on instruction and training 2011 Camp Sessions • Olympic and National team players appearing as guest instructors and speakers Session #1 June 14 – 17 • Special skills-based sessions for centers, Session #2 June 18 – 21 center defenders and drivers Session #3 June 25 – 28 • Special goalie camp with dedicated goalie All session open for Resident and Day Campers. coaches 12 year olds must have at least one year of • 50-meter and 25 meter Olympic facility water polo experience. • Special training videos All camp sessions will be held on the beautiful • Camp tournaments campus of California State University, Long Beach • Special mentoring program for coaches in Long Beach, California. • What to Expect at the Next Level” workshop for players looking to play in college • “Ask the Ref” session with Jim Cullingham, Sponsors ODP National Director of Referees

For complete details visit our website www.waterpolochampions.com or call Monte at 714.536.2113 or Ken at 714.536.9538.

COC Ad Layout.indd 1 11/10/10 10:18 PM ADFIERCE COMPETITION You deserve the best. Accept no imitations. Colorado Time Systems is the leader in aquatic sports timing and scoring systems, and has been for over 35 years. We are committed to providing you with innovative training tools, unsurpassed competitive equipment, state of the art displays and excellent customer service. Our team of professionals is here to help you customize a training, competitive, scoring and display package for your facility and your team.

For more information on our complete line of timing systems and scoreboards, call (970) 667-1000 or (800) 279-0111 or visit www.coloradotime.com.

THERE’S NO REPLACEMENT FOR THE ORIGINAL. Making Time Count

Colorado Time Systems is proud to sponsor United States Water Polo as the official scoring and timing system supplier.

© 2009, Colorado Time Systems Stemilt_QtrPageBleeds.pdf 1 11/30/2010 11:47:14 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K FROM THE DECK USA WATER POLO

Preventative Medicine By Dr. Marcia Whalen, USA Water Polo Team Physician

Instead of talking about injury prevention, I would like to talk about and coaches will appreciate you not getting them ill by sitting things out. vaccinations for prevention of illness. How often has a cough, fever, or Influenza is a viral infection, not a bacterial infection. Antibiotics will not congestion kept you out of the pool? Besides eating healthy, sleeping eight make the Flu go away any faster. There are some prescription antiviral to 10 hours a night (10 hours for those of you under 18; eight hours for the medications such as Tamiflu and Relenza that can be taken within 48 hours rest of you), what can you do to prevent that next cold or flu? after the onset of symptoms—they can sometimes help you feel better faster. But most people fight off the infection without any prescription medication The Flu after a few days. Listen to your body and rest when you’re sick—because The most obvious is getting a flu shot every season. Influenza infections there can be serious complications from the Flu. peak every January in the United States, and the vaccine for that season is offered starting in early October and will continue to immunize through January. Whooping cough Known medically as pertussis, this highly contagious respiratory tract The Flu, short for influenza, typically manifests itself rapidly with high infection can last for weeks or months. It can definitely keep you out of fever (over 100.5 degrees), body aches, chills, headache, nasal congestion, the game for a while. Although it initially resembles an ordinary cold, and cough. Never exercise when you have a fever higher than 100.5 de- whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants. grees; your body cannot properly regulate its internal temperature at that Whooping cough is most contagious before the coughing starts. The best stage, and you’re sure to feel even worse and possibly prolong your recov- way to prevent it is through vaccinations. The childhood vaccine is called ery period. Also, a fever makes you more infectious, and your teammates DTaP; the whooping cough booster vaccine for adolescents and adults is

REFerendum WITH JIM CULLINGHAM Hi all. Hope your 2011 is going great so far. shared by referees around the world. We were (A modest fee associated with the schools to extremely fortunate to have Boris Margeta cover facility, material, refreshments, and staff As you know—and as has been outlined in this from Slovenia—arguably one of the top refer- costs may be charged.) column—we’ve been working hard to improve ees in the world—as our guest to help introduce and expand referees’ options to meet and main- There are two schools currently scheduled: One and present the material, along with Steven tain their certification requirements. in the Pacific Zone and one in the Central Cali- Rotsart, USA. fornia Zone, with more to come in the Northeast To that end we’ve developed an “in person” Margeta is a veteran of three Olympic Games and Southwest Zones, among others. USA Water Polo Referee School designed to and numerous World Championships and meet your recertification instructional require- The school locations and dates will be listed on World Class events. His insight and sharing of ments as an alternative to those classes offered the USA Water Polo Referee’s Association Web philosophies was absolutely fantastic. with the Water Polo Academy and the Online site (www.usawpr.org). Tutorials offered through the USA Water An outline and videos of the “School” presenta- I also would like to encourage our coach mem- Polo Referee’s Association and available at tion will be available sometime in March on the bers, as well as any other interested parties, to www.usawpr.org. For more specifics regarding www.usawpr.org site for all registered referee attend if the opportunity presents itself so you referee training and certification, please check members to review. can gain a little insight into what we’re teaching out the Referee Association Web site. A follow-up program to the inaugural effort our referees. The inaugural referee school was offered in involves a series of “schools” throughout the Thanks again to all for your membership and conjunction with the USA Water Polo Assem- country designed to reach out to every zone and dedication; I hope to see you at one of the bly last January in Costa Mesa, CA; well over provide opportunities for U.S. referees every- schools in the near future. As always, please 80 referees and representatives from each and where to share ideas and hear from some of the feel free to submit your question or concern every zone attended. top refs—not only from our country, but from regarding any and all aspects of the game to us around the World as well. The material presented was developed in con- at [email protected]. junction with the newly formed World Water We recently offered a school in the Midwest Jim Polo Referees Association in an effort to Zone, and I am happy to announce that we standardize interpretations and philosophies will be scheduling at least four others in 2011.

32 FROM THE DECK called Tdap. Both protect against whooping cough, tetanus, and diphtheria. Until recently, we believed that childhood immunizations gave us lifetime Meningitis immunity; we now know differently and are recommending everyone over A specific bacterial meningitis is contagious, particularly when a group the age of 10 (including adults) get a one-time booster. The most efficient of young adults (late teens to early 20s) are in close living quarters. Many way to receive this booster is through the Tdap vaccine. of you travel as a team and sleep in close quarters, putting you at risk for this vaccine-preventable disease. Symptoms are a high fever, headache, In 2010 several states reported an increase in cases and/or localized out- and rash. If not treated urgently with antibiotics, meningitis can be deadly. breaks of pertussis, including a state-wide epidemic in California. Local- Every year there are several outbreaks in the U.S., typically at colleges. ized outbreaks are not uncommon and occur throughout the year. Over the last five years, 8,000 to 25,000 cases of pertussis were reported annually The best way to avoid this disease is through the routine vaccination of in the United States. Everyone should make sure they are up to date with all persons aged 11 to 18 with one dose of meningococcal conjugate vac- pertussis vaccinations — again, the DTaP vaccine for infants and children cine (Menactra). I typically offer this to my patients at their 12-15-year-old and Tdap (also known as ADACEL) booster for adolescents and adults. physical exams. Also, whooping cough/pertussis immunizations are required for all 7th If you have any further questions about vaccine-preventable diseases, through 12th grade students for the 2011-2012 school year—and after 2012, please contact your family physician or go to www.cdc.gov. it’s required for all students entering 7th grade.

Water-Proof >>>

Tips Buddy Taping

By Karen S. Bloch MS, ATC, CSCS, PES: USA Water Polo Sports Medicine & Performance Coordinator g Sprained and fractured fingers are common injuries in water polo due to the physical nature of the sport. Once you’re able to resume play, the challenge is figuring out how to tape injured fingers and

i n make sure the tape adheres in the water. Buddy taping, which uses the injured finger and the fin- ger next to it, is an excellent way to splint the injured finger in a functional position. The following instructions take you step by step through this unique way to support the injured finger, allow for functional movement, and provide comfort without losing support in the water:

ai n Step 1: Step 5: Determine which finger is best to splint next to or “buddy” with the injured finger. Cinch the two pieces together on the top side of the fingers by crossing the tape r To determine this, try taping both splint figures at separate times and go through (similar to tying your shoes). Make sure the tape is tight but not uncomfortable, and functional assessments such as throwing a ball and swimming. Choose the “buddy” then tie one more knot. T finger that feels the most comfortable. Step 2: Split white athletic tape in half lengthwise and then anchor the tape on the bottom of the splinting finger below the knuckles. >>>

Step 6: Perform the same steps for the upper part of the fingers above the knuckles.

Step 3: Wrap the tape around the injured finger on the underside of the finger, around the side, over the top, and onto the anchor strip. Continue around to the underside (palm) part of both Step 7: fingers. Cut the excess tape. Step 4: This taping should fit snugly and NOT so tight that it cuts off circulation. The white athletic Once more split the tape in half. Pull tape should be anchored onto the fingers and the split tape in opposite directions should not come off in the water if applied around both fingers toward the top of correctly. As a reminder, makes sure that it’s the hand. a functional tape job by trying to catch and throw a ball.

usawaterpolo.org 33 LOB SHOTS USA WATER POLO

“Not knowing what kind of creatures lurked below was disconcerting,” Wright said. “It was extremely choppy for the first five hours of the swim. The middle three hours it settled down and occasionally the sun peeked out from behind a gray canopy, which gave me a much-needed

photos sourtesy of Doug Wright sourtesyphotos of Doug confidence boost.” Wright was plagued by wind gusts of up to 30 miles per hour and six- to 10-foot sea swells over the last four hours of the ordeal. Doug Wright Tackles McCloud—also a clinical professor of medicine and geriatrics—said, “I am deeply honored by Mr. Wright’s gesture on behalf of my work with English Channel To Benefit memory-impaired older adults and their families. His determination and tenacity in taking on this extraordinary physical challenge certainly give Alzheimer’s Research me inspiration.” By David Eastis, UC Davis Department of Internal Medicine To prepare for the channel crossing, Wright spent a year training, during Doug Wright, a high school art history teacher and water polo coach which he logged 600 miles of pool lap swimming and 100 miles of from Davis, CA, swam the notoriously chilly, choppy water of the English open-water swimming, as well as 1,200 miles biking and 1,300 miles of Channel to raise funds for Alzheimer’s disease education and clinical work that Michael McCloud, M.D., is performing at UC Davis. Wright, also swimming coach, was inspired to attempt the fundraising feat after being impressed by the one-on-one care McCloud has given his mother, Jane Wright, an Alzheimer’s patient. Wright asked his race supporters to make donations to support McCloud’s research studies. He dove into the cold surf at Samphire Hoe near Folkestone, England, under a light drizzle at 4:53 a.m. on Aug. 18; 11 hours and 37 minutes later, Wright walked ashore at Wissant, France—29.6 miles. In so doing, he became a member of an elite group of fewer than 900 who’ve succeeded in swimming the channel. The half moon and its reflection from the white cliffs of Dover did little to pierce the darkness, however.

Antiwave Pool Doug Wright joined elite company in swimming the English Channel to raise Official funds for Alzheimer’s disease education and clinical work. Products of USA Water Polo Products running. He prepared a brochure, which he sent to colleagues and friends, to solicit donations to support McCloud’s work. When you want The Davis Enterprise newspaper published a diary that Wright prepared the best in about his swim. In it Wright credits his mother for inspiring his Water Polo enthusiasm for swimming and athletic endurance. “My mom was a solid swimmer. She supported my swimming when I Goals & was growing up by driving me to many swim meets, timing and also Courses encouraging me in some of my first open-water swimming,” Wright explained. “She was there in Tahoe City 18 years ago, when I made my first swim across Tahoe from Sand Harbor, 15 years ago at Kings Beach 5 styles of goals when I finished my first length swim from South Lake Tahoe, and five 3 year warranty years ago when I finished my circumference three-day swim of Tahoe.” Fastest lead time Despite her debilitated condition, Wright’s mother remained a strong presence for her son throughout his swim. Call today for a You were with me every stroke Mom—you never left my side. I’m sore, tired dealer near you! and very sleepy. It’s been a long day, Wright typed in his diary. He also thanks all the supporters who made donations supporting McCloud, then adds, Lastly, thank you, Dr. Michael McCloud, for being a beacon of light in the fog of dementia. (866) 736-2183 www.antiwave.com [email protected]

“Simply the Best in meeting your aquatic equipment needs”

34 LOB SHOTS

photo by Rich Wood full mobility in his upper region and Community Rallies possibly in his lower body. Jim began playing with USA Water Polo Around Yosemite when he was in sixth grade and played High Head Coach on two Junior Olympic national teams Submitted by Brian Busalacchi while in junior high. He then played four years at Buchser High School Jim Clark— head coach of Yosemite High (Santa Clara, CA) and was a 5th-team School in Oakhurst, CA, and former collegiate All-American as a senior. During high and USA water polo player—was seriously school he also played for Bob Wegman injured in a fall at his home in early December. on De Anza College’s (Cupertino, CA) While dealing with flu symptoms and a high club team. Jim also was recruited to play fever, Jim, 50, was making his way to his at UCSB (Santa Barbara, CA) where Team members gather with Jim Clark on bedroom and passed out, falling head first he played for two seasons. He then Super Bowl Sunday 2011. into the door jam; he broke his neck and was transferred to UC Berkeley where he school season, as his son will be an incoming paralyzed in both his upper and lower body. played one season; he also played for their USA freshman. He spent the next month in the intensive care summer team. unit at St. Agnes Hospital in Fresno and was Jim’s journey back to full health will be a long After college, Jim worked as an operating transferred to a facility specializing in spinal and expensive one. Many costs are associated engineer on boats in the San Francisco Harbor cord rehabilitation in Santa Clara. During the with his hospital care as well as setting up his until returning to school in the late 90s to first month, Jim was on a ventilator and had house and mode of transportation. Therefore become a chiropractor. In 2002, Jim opened very little movement in his body; but since a fund has been established in his name at his the doors of his new practice in Oakhurst, moving to the rehab center, he has improved local bank for those who wish to contribute. If CA. In 2005, when his daughter began high greatly. Jim is breathing mostly on his own you would like to contact Jim, you may do so school, he decided to get back into the game and has had movement in his upper body, through Brian Busalacchi at brianbusalacchi@ he loved and took over the head coaching arms, and toes; however he’s still confined to a yahoo.com or Barry Shrewsbury at position at her high school. During his time as wheelchair, which he can use on his own. He’s [email protected]. in great spirits and enthusiastically addressing coach of Yosemite High School, Jim developed his rehabilitation on a daily basis with the a winning tradition. Every year under his James Clark Fund skilled personnel at the facility. His long-term leadership, Yosemite advanced to the playoffs; c/o Yosemite bank prognosis has yet to be determined, but Jim it has also sent several players to the college PO Box 2060 and his family are hopeful that he’ll regain ranks. One of Jim’s goals since his paralysis is Oakhurst, CA 93644 to be back on deck to coach this upcoming high 559-683-6442

2011 Men’s FINA World SwimOutlet.com CALENDAR League Prelims Junior Olympics OF EVENTS May 12-15, 2011 (Boys) July 30-August 2, 2011 Thousand Oaks, CA (Girls) August 4-August 7, 2011 Women’s FINA World Orange County, CA League Prelims www.juniorolympics.com May 19-22, 2011 TURBO Champions Cup TBD November 11-13, 2011 Fisher Cup Bloomington, IN May 21-22, 2011 9th Annual USA Water Polo San Diego, CA Golf Tournament presented by Sea Air Federal Credit Union Masters National Championship December 16, 2010 June 3-5, 2011 Mission Viejo, CA Moraga, CA

usawaterpolo.org 35 In order to get into the magazine, we need high-quality digital photos (jpegs of 300 dpi or better) so that your brilliance is brought to life on our glossy pages. So send in your masterpieces. Email all photos to: [email protected]. There is no assurance that your photos will run in USA Skip Shot Magazine. Editorial decisions are made by the maga- zine staff. Once we receive your photos, they become property of USA Water Polo and may be used for print or publication.

Welcome to Skip Shot Magazine’s Hot Shots page, featuring shots from your fingertips. The person who submits each issue’s best HOT SHOT will receive a free Mikasa men’s or women’s water polo ball. For more information on Mikasa visit www.MikasaSports.com. This issue’s winner is Patrice Leonard >>>>>>>

Honorable mention to the remaining photo submissions. Counter clockwise from left: Richard Casserly Bottom left: Julia Kirkland Bottom center: Barbara Salvini Bottom right: William Gurske Top Right: Susie Wallace

36 TS! POCKE MIKASA COMIC SERIES MIKASA hER o! SUPER AN’T ! c IS IMMM Th PPP h oP STo ST ! MIKASA

splash!! woosh! slap!

ToNY AZEVEDo Olympic Silver Medalist USA National Water Polo Team

Official FINA Game Ball

mikasasports.com Official Partner of USA Water Polo

To BE coNTINUED…

Mikasa_2011_Tony Adindd 1 3/7/11 12:11 PM