With an 8–5 record, the San Diego Mesa College men's water polo team is in a strong position to make a push for the conference title.

Before their unblemished weekend, the Olympians had already battled through a tough early schedule. Head Coach Scott McCollum shared that in their first nine games, the team went up against two NCAA programs and six 3C2A teams that finished last season in the top ten.

The squad recently rose to the challenge at Southwestern College, earning wins over Arizona State University Club 15–10, UC San Diego Club 16–9, San Diego State University Club 14–10, and UC San Diego Club A 14–12.

"There haven't been any big surprises, I think we are right where we should be at this point," says McCallum. "We are very young compared to most programs. We have 2 returning players and 18 freshmen. So the biggest challenge has been introducing the freshmen to the level of college water polo and having them learn how to play together."

Team captains Santiago Gonzalez and Barrett Satre, the only returning players, have stepped up as leaders. McCallum and his staff have also praised the freshmen for their immediate impact. Each new player has contributed to the team's early success and become an important part of the program. As the season moves forward, the coaches will focus on understanding each player's strengths and, like a puzzle, fitting them together to build a complete team.

McCollum highlighted the performance of freshman Sean "Shadow Ghost" Gummere from Cabrillo High School in Lompoc, who has been a standout defender off the bench. His work at the center position has been a key factor for the Olympians.

The team now turns its attention to conference play, opening against defending PCAC champion Grossmont College. "It will be a good test to see where we measure against the champs," says McCollum. The match is set for a 3:00 p.m. start at the Kroc Center.