BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. Fresno Pacific UniversitySunbirds men’s water polo team secured their first victory of the 2026 season by rallying to defeat Salem University 18-17 in a non-conference game on September 11 in Bridgeport, West Virginia.
The Sunbirds overcame an early deficit as Salem opened the scoring with three goals. Fresno Pacific responded with goals from Joey Brocar (assisted by Yanti Quijada), Tristin Fox, Jordan Lambert, Jesse Bryan, Luke Young, Roberto Perez-Puente, and Christiano Sandino before halftime.
The fourth quarter was pivotal as Fresno Pacific scored seven goalstheir highest scoring quarter of the gameincluding a critical power-play and a penalty shot conversion. Both teams finished with 38 shots on goal; however, the Sunbirds converted five power-play goals and one penalty shot to clinch the narrow win.
Head coach Jonathan Miller, in his second season, praised his team: Our team showed an incredible amount of grit being able to go on the road and get a win in a tough environment. We had people step up all over the pool, and it was truly a team effort to finish that game.
Standout Performances Highlight Team Effort
Tristin Fox led the Sunbirds with five goals on nine shots and drew three exclusions, driving momentum in key moments. Ryder Stermer recorded the first hat trick of his collegiate career, scoring three goals and adding two assists. Christiano Sandino contributed offensively and defensively with two goals, one assist, and two steals.
Goalkeeper Chase Hammes was instrumental in preserving the lead with 13 saves, four steals, and an assist during critical phases of the match.
Additional offensive contributions came from Jordan Lambert, Jesse Bryan, Luke Young, Giacomo Hernandez, and Jake Canales, whose late goal helped seal the victory.
Upcoming Schedule at Salem Invitational
The Sunbirds will remain in Bridgeport to compete in the Salem Invitational. On September 12, they face George Washington University at 9:50 a.m. PT and Johns Hopkins University at 1:50 p.m. PT, before concluding with a match against Gannon University at 7:20 a.m. PT on September 13.
CSB Take
Fresno Pacific’s narrow comeback victory over Salem University delivers a much-needed boost to the program’s confidence early in the season. The team’s ability to execute under pressure and the emergence of key performers like Fox and Stermer signal promising development under coach Jonathan Miller’s guidance. The upcoming challenging slate at the Salem Invitational will test the Sunbirds’ growing resilience and skill against ranked competition, offering a valuable opportunity to build momentum in the 2026 campaign.
Source: Original report
