Adam Krikorian, the current head coach of the United States women’s national water polo team, is the most successful coach our sport has ever seen. Throughout his coaching tenure, his team achieved one of the most enduring and dominant streaks in the annals of international water polo.
Prior to his coaching career, Krikorian distinguished himself as an outstanding player, playing a pivotal role in UCLA’s 1995 NCAA Championship victory. His coaching journey began at UCLA, where he successfully nurtured both men’s and women’s programs.
Assuming the leadership of Team USA in 2009, Krikorian has transformed his nation into a perennial powerhouse. Under his guidance, the United States has clinched 27 gold medals in 32 major competitions. This impressive tally includes three Olympic golds, five world championships, four world cups, four Pan American games, and eleven world league titles.
“This is always so difficult.” Krikorian says. “As always, thanks for doing this and promoting our sport. Here’s what I have with some very brief comments…”
+1 Pt | Paula Leiton (ESP)
Spanish National Team Player. Club: Sabadell. Position: Centre-forward
Always a toss up between her and her teammate, Maica Garcia. But Paula has consistently shown that she belongs in the conversation with the best.
+2 Pts | Sofia Giustini (ITA)
Italian National Team Player. Club: Sabadell. Position: Winger
I had to select someone from the team that defeated us at the World Championships. An excellent young player, who plays with the composure of a veteran.
+3 Pts | Judith Forca (ESP)
Spanish National Team Player. Club: Sabadell. Position: Right-side.
Similar to Van der Kraats, she is always finding ways to score in crucial moments and games. She helped Sabadell to another title and her Spanish team to a Silver Medal at World Championships.
+4 Pts | Simone Van de Kraats (NED)
Dutch National Team Player. Club: Mataro. Position: Right-Wing
Hard to select one person from a team loaded with talent but hard to ignore the person who seemingly scores at ease. Helped lead her National Team to a historic Gold Medal at World Championships and Mataro to a 2nd place finish at Champions League.
WP 30+ Masters Tournament
The perfect excuse for an unforgettable vacation.
