As MPSF play kicks off in the ensuing weeks for the No. 5 UCLA
men’s water polo team (8-4), one thing can be certain. The
team is improving with every paddle and stroke they take.
The beginning of the season looked awfully bleak for the young
Bruins, but they have become a much improved team.
Led by a pair of juniors ““ Peter Belden and Ted Peck
““ UCLA is definitely headed in the right direction.
Belden has had an exceptional year thus far leading the Bruins
with 14 steals. His leadership and experience in the water have
been key to the team’s recent success.
“It’s been an honor being team captain so
far,” Belden said. “It’s a role that I’ve
grown accustomed to, especially sharing my knowledge of the game
with the younger players.”
Coach Adam Krikorian can’t emphasize more what Belden has
meant to his young squad.
“Belden’s definitely our leader, the most
intelligent player, and one of the more consistent players out
there day in and day out,” Krikorian said. “He’s
certainly one of those players that does all the little things, but
he certainly doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Peck, too, has been an integral part of the Bruin defense.
“Peck’s been our horse in the middle. The guy is in
tremendous shape and for his size, it’s amazing how quick he
can get up and down the pool,” Krikorian said.
Though individual play has been important, a concerted effort by
the entire team leads to victories.
“Our team has more potential and has gained more
experience than any of the teams out there,” Belden said.
“We’ve progressed more than any team out there and
I’m optimistic about the rest of the season for
us.”
With UCLA playing rival California this weekend and with both
USC and Stanford in its sight, the team will emphasize increasing
its intensity and raising its level of play.
“In the beginning of the year we could make an excuse with
our inexperience, but we can’t any more,” Belden said.
“We’ve played two tournaments already and we’re
heading into the part of the year where we play some of our big
conference opponents.
“We’ve got to step it up,” he said.
Along with Belden’s guidance, Peck, who is second in
scoring for the Bruins with 12 goals, feels that his emotions will
play a key role in the Bruins’ success.
“I just think that all championship teams have that
someone that is emotional,” Peck said “Our past UCLA
teams have always been emotional and intense, and I want our team
to realize that intensity and desire are both key components to
being successful.”