CSM Water Polo History...
Intercollegiate water polo was introduced to the
athletic department curriculum in 1963 when the College of
San Mateo moved to its present College Heights location. Water
polo team rosters were filled by student-athletes who had
graduated from high schools in the North, Mid, and South Peninsula
Athletic League ranging from South San Francisco to Menlo
Park. Only seven high schools offered water polo, therefore
most team member’s prior aquatic experience was limited
to competitive swimming.
CSM was a member of the prestigious Golden Gate Conference.
Under the leadership and guidance of college President Julio
Bortollazzo, Athletic Director Herb Hudson, and Physical Education
Director Gordon Gray, twenty-six year old Rich Donner was
hired as the aquatics coach after having served three years
in a similar position at San Carlos High School.
The College of San Mateo attained recognition on the California
state level by qualifying for statewide championships in its
first year of participation. They were recognized nationally
by winning the Jr. National Championship in 1967 and placing
6th in the Men’s outdoor nationals under the banner
of the Bulldog Aquatic Club. The college received international
recognition by having Donner selected as the head United States
Water Polo coach for the 1969 and 1973 gold medal winning
teams who participated in the Maccabian Games in Israel.
The Bulldogs won or shared the Golden Gate Conference championship
6 times. They qualified for Northern California water polo
championships on 13 occasions and participated in 11 California
Community College Championships placing in the range of 2nd
(twice) to 6th.
The popularity and respect of the CSM Water Polo program grew
throughout the community due to the enrollment of many outstanding
young men and their dedication and commitment to the sport.
Members of CSM Water Polo teams were represented on 50-All
Golden Gate Conference Teams, 20-All Northern California Teams,
and 16-Community College All American Teams. The highest profiled
CSM player was Steve Hamann (1968-’69) who went on to
become the goalkeeper for the United States Olympic Team.
From 1963 to 1978, Bulldog water polo teams compiled an overall
record of 306 wins, 110 losses, and 2 ties. |
