James Profetto/ Contributing Writer
An opponent towers over Andy Rodriguez, kicking and punching in the water. Rodriguez locks into the match mentally, fending off blow after blow for 32 minutes. During the post-match handshaking, Rodriguez’s opponent doesn’t return the gesture.
“He doesn’t shake my hand and I thought, ‘Wow, it must suck to know that a kid my height, my size, is giving you trouble,’” Rodriguez said.
The second-year player brought the Panthers character and focus to that match—a team short-handed but full-hearted.
Founded in 2008 by student Chris Arias, the water polo club attracts players who are looking for a competitive edge in their everyday lives. Up to a dozen students can fill a roster, but the Panthers do not have the luxury of a full team.
This club accepts anyone willing to play, amateurs and veterans alike. Edward Weller, an economics major and team captain, invites anyone to play and said that the club is never “intimidating.”
The CWPA, Collegiate Water Polo Association, harbors all of the universities that compete on a club level. Competitors include the University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University and Florida State University, each with its own strategy.
“You get teams like FSU, who will try to swim on you. Then, you get UM, who will try to tire you out,” Weller said.
Although the odds are against a club that doesn’t have a large roster, the Panthers managed to finish in a two-way tie with FSU for second place. Both teams went 6-2 in conference play and 8-3 overall. Unfortunately, the Panthers fell to the Hurricanes in the tournament.
The departure of Carol Vaughan leaves the coach spot unfilled; Weller has assumed the responsibilities.
Twenty-year-old junior Andy Rodriguez finished his first season, but has seven years of water polo experience. He’s only 5 feet 6 inches but it doesn’t stop him. Rodriguez sums up the club’s controlled, ruthless attitude.
“Size isn’t a factor. Everyone is the same height in the water,” Rodriguez said. “I see myself as unpredictable.”
On land, these athletes dedicate their time to school. The club brings its determined attitude into the classroom, but without the kicking and yelling.
“Right now, I’m working on getting my real estate license,” Weller said.
He is already on pace to get his bachelor’s degree in Economics.
At one point, Rodriguez even referred to his team as “full of scholar-athletes.”
Opportunities after college for water polo players are tough. Intramural athletes will take their career path in their field of study, but Weller says there are chances for those who want to continue sharpening their craft.
“There’s overseas clubs where athletes can play, but none of that is guaranteed,” Weller said.
Rodriguez himself is considering an open team after graduation.
In the meantime, Weller and his team concentrate on the training ahead, which takes place from August to September.
With a smirk, Weller jokingly added something about his team.
“There’s an old saying by some Latin philosopher that says, ‘Don’t start none if you don’t want none,” Weller said.
-sports@fiusm.com
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