Simon Vasquez

Support My Journey to USA Water Polo NTSC – and Beyond

My name is Simon Vasquez, and I’m honored to have been selected as a Development Athlete for the 2026 USA Water Polo National Team Selection Camp (NTSC). This is an incredible opportunity for me to compete with and learn from some of the top players in the country, continue growing in the sport I love, and take an important step in the USA Water Polo development pipeline. As part of the NTSC experience, athletes are asked to raise a minimum of $1,475 to support the Olympic Development Program.

Simon Vasquez at the pool wearing his ODP medal

My Story

If the younger version of me could see this journey now, he probably would not have known just how much this sport would test him, challenge him, and help him grow. Water polo has pushed me to discover strength in myself, especially mentally, and that has become one of the most important and lasting parts of my journey.

A young Simon beginning his water polo journey

My parents and my older sister have shown me what it means to be dedicated and to stay committed even when things get hard. They have taught me that nothing worth wanting comes easy, and that if I truly apply myself, anything is possible. I also lean heavily on my coaches, teammates, and mentors, who have helped teach me the value of discipline, consistency, resilience, and hard work.

Simon with his sister

I play center defender, which is one of the toughest positions in the pool. It takes strength, focus, toughness, and discipline every time I get in the water. Playing this position has challenged me to battle, stay ready, and keep improving every day. I’m also proud to follow the example of my older sister, Laurelei, who also plays center defender and has shown me through her example what it means to be smart, strong, and tough in and out of the pool. I’m proud of the work I’ve put in, and I’m grateful for everyone who has helped me get to this point.

Why I Love Water Polo

I love water polo because it challenges me to be my best every day. It teaches me discipline, teamwork, and how to keep pushing when things get hard. I love competing, being part of a team, and working toward something bigger than myself.

Simon competing in water polo

Why Your Support Matters

This opportunity gives me the chance to test my limits, represent my sport, and represent the USA with grit. I will be ready to soak up all of the knowledge I can from world-class coaches, the USA Water Polo organization, and the great athletes around me. I expect to be challenged, and I look forward to it.

I’m excited for the chance to train and compete with some of the best players who are my peers, to test myself, and to show what grit in practice looks like. I know we are promised nothing, and that being invited to this camp is an honor. I will do my best to rise to the occasion, enjoy every moment, and make the most of this opportunity.

Your support helps make this experience possible. Every donation, big or small, means a lot to me and helps support my journey and the continued growth of the Olympic Development Program.

Simon with his Nana, Lorna Williams-Luchetti

Looking Ahead

I will do my best to represent my family, my coaches, my teammates, and my country with humility, heart, and determination. I also want to honor my Nana, Lorna Williams-Luchetti, my Papa, Matthew Vasquez and my Grandpa David Corona, by working hard, staying humble, and making them proud.

I also hold close the memory of my grandparents who have passed on — Deborah Vasquez-England (my Yaya), Joel Lloyd (Poppi Joel), and my Grandpa Randy Williams. Even though they are no longer here, their love and the legacy they left in my family stay with me. I hope to honor them through my effort, my heart, and the way I carry myself in and out of the pool.

I know this opportunity is both a privilege and a challenge, and I’m ready for both.

LET'S GOOOOOO!!!!!

Simon at sunset

 

My Team of Supporters

  • La Jolla United Last month $104.00
  • La Jolla United Last month $104.00

Help me reach my goal

$1,638.00

achieved

$1,475.00

goal

of your goal reached