After months of anticipation and searching, the wait is finally over…UCLA Women's Club Water Polo is proud to announce that they have officially hired Kate McCarthy as new head coach!
Kate joins these Bruins on the pool deck with over ten years of experience playing water polo. Starting from the age of eight years old, Kate has played around the Nation and even internationally in Australia. More recently, Kate has spent the past two years playing on the UCLA Women's Water Polo Varsity Team, and now currently acts as team manager.
When asked, Kate stated that she has always had a, "love [for] the sport and the people that surround it." A sentiment evident through the work ethic and dedication she has demonstrated over the years.
Not only does Kate excel in the pool, she's also making her mark in the classroom. Currently a third-year Psychology and Labor Studies major, Kate was awarded MPSF All-Academic Scholar-Athlete honors in 2021. In order to qualify for this award, a student-athlete must have a 3.00-or-better cumulative grade point average (GPA), be in at least sophomore standing, and completed at least one full academic year at the school prior to the season in which the award is received. To say the least, recipients of this honor are individuals willing to go the extra mile and then keep walking (or in this case, swimming).
As a coach, Kate aims to be, "engaged and driven to help the team develop while also fostering a fun and energetic community." This enthusiasm is mirrored by many of team's players. Junior, Jessica Gangle is quoted saying, "I am so excited to have Kate as our coach! She has already begun to lead the team with her incredible knowledge of the sport. I look forward to seeing all the growth this team will see under her coaching!" It's sure to be an exciting season as we watch these Bruins train under this new leadership.
Check weekly articles for more information about Kate, the team, and their upcoming tournament at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo!
