Posted: Oct 24, 2023
Ryan O'Donovan, Men's Water Polo
Tell us about how you first got involved with your sport. When did you first get interested and began participating? What is it about the sport that you enjoy so much?
I grew up playing multiple sports like baseball, swimming, etc. but around 9 years ago, the mom of my sister’s soccer teammate suggested that I try out water polo so I gave it a shot. I first joined a water polo club at a local high school and I’ve loved it ever since. Something about the sport is just so satisfying to me, and I loved it because it was unlike any other sport I played.
What got you here to Orange Coast College? Tell us about your journey to OCC.
I always knew I wanted to play water polo in college but I didn’t know what I wanted to do yet so I took a look at OCC. As soon as I came to OCC and met Coach Matulis I knew this was a place that I could grow as a player and a person. OCC also offers a lot of great opportunities like the dorms, Pirates Promise, and also it is one of the best community colleges for academics and transferring.
If I asked your coach or teammates about what type of person you are on your team, what do you think they would say?
I would hope they say that I am reliable and someone that my teammates can approach if they have any questions. I also think I am seen as a hard worker, leader, and I try to bring up the people around me while having a positive vibe.
Playing a sport that is growing in this country -- but perhaps still not as appreciated as the other sports -- tell me about the work that is required to compete at this level and the amount of training that's required to compete in water polo at this level.
Water polo is definitely still a growing sport in this country, but I do think it is growing fast. Water polo takes a lot of hard work and a lot of training to stay in shape to perform at a high level. Our team does a lot of swimming, lifting, and skills work to keep our level of performance at the highest it can be.
When you're not involved with your sport, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Any hobbies or interests and that keep you busy in your spare time?
When I am not playing water polo I am usually hanging out with my teammates, all of the guys on our team are very close and we all love being around each other. I think our team chemistry is one of the biggest things that helps us when we play and gives us an advantage over other teams. I also love to surf and go to the beach when I have free time.
Who would be your all-time sports favorite athlete and why?
I think my all time sports favorite athlete would be Kobe Bryant. I have always admired his dedication and menality for years and I think he’s an inspiring role model.
Favorite sports team? Any sport you want ... who's your favorite team and why?
I would have to say my favorite sports team is the Angels because I grew up in Placentia, CA, and I always loved going to games at Angel Stadium when I was younger with my friends and family. Being at the stadium always brings back a lot of great memories.
Once your sports career is over, what do you want to do with your life, career-wise?
I am not 100% sure what I want to do yet, although I am planning to transfer to a 4-year university and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in communications and continue to go into marketing.
What's on your "Bucket List"??? Somewhere amazing to visit?? A Sports event to experience?? Whatcha got??
I would love to go to the Olympics one year and watch all the water polo games that are played there and watch some of my favorite players from around the world all play in the same place.
