CLAREMONT, Calif. 1 1 The University of California San Diego men’s water polo team secured two decisive victories on October 2, 2026, at the Gary Troyer Tournament hosted by Pomona-Pitzer at Haldeman Pool. The Tritons defeated NCAA Division III national powerhouses Redlands and Pomona-Pitzer by scores of 15-5 and 16-10, respectively.
The Tritons dominated No. 2 Redlands early, racing to a 4-0 lead within the first quarter. Jackson Boettner led UC San Diego’s offense with a hat trick and an assist, scoring four goals and tallying five points overall. Mason Presley, Christian Hammonds, and freshman Bryan Shapirshteyn also contributed goals, including Shapirshteyn’s power-play score at the end of the first quarter. Landon Akerstrom returned from injury to score one goal in his first action since September 2025. The Tritons outshot Redlands 27-15 and converted seven man-up opportunities, controlling the game’s tempo throughout. Goalie Alex Hegeman added three saves to the defensive effort.
In the nightcap, UC San Diego edged No. 3 Pomona-Pitzer 16-10, holding a narrow 4-3 lead after the first quarter before outscoring the Sagehens 9-4 over the next two periods. Boettner again starred with four goals, while Hammonds added a hat trick and an assist. Reef Lippa facilitated the offense with four assists, and Mason Presley added two goals and two assists. Both teams finished with 24 shots, with Pomona-Pitzer’s goalie Gregg Moore making five saves.
Head coach Matt Ustaszewski expressed enthusiasm for his team’s performance and the return of Akerstrom, saying, “It was incredible to see Landon Akerstrom back in the water with his teammates, and we are thrilled about the opportunity to begin Big West play with him back in the lineup.” UC San Diego improved to 11-4 overall following the tournament.
The Tritons will open Big West Conference play on October 9 at Long Beach State and face USC in Los Angeles on October 10.
CSB Take
The University of California San Diego men’s water polo team demonstrated significant depth and resilience in their victories over two top-ranked NCAA Division III opponents. Jackson Boettner’s consistent scoring and Landon Akerstrom’s return from injury have bolstered the Tritons’ offensive and defensive capabilities. These wins provide momentum as UC San Diego prepares for the more competitive Big West Conference schedule ahead, where adaptability and team cohesion will be crucial for continued success.
Source: Original report
