4 California Players Lead Team USA to Water Polo Final

Four water polo players from California's Central Coast are making waves on the world stage, helping Team USA advance to the World Cup Final after a dominant performance in the Netherlands.

Ryann Neushul, Paige Hauschild, Ava Stryker, and Lucy Haaland-Ford were part of the U.S. Women's National Water Polo Team that finished first in the Division 1 Tournament in Rotterdam. The team posted an impressive 5-1 record and earned their spot in the World Cup Final scheduled for Sydney, Australia this July.

The tournament showcased the team's resilience and skill. Team USA's only loss came early in group play against Spain, falling 17-15 in a close match.

When the two teams met again, the Americans came out on top with a decisive 7-5 victory. Neushul broke a 5-5 tie in the fourth period with a power play goal, finishing the game with two goals total.

Neushul continued her strong performance throughout the tournament. She scored four goals in a nail-biting 12-10 win against host Netherlands and added another goal in Team USA's commanding 13-3 victory over Italy in the tournament finale. Stryker also contributed a goal in that final match.

The Ripple Effect

This World Cup success represents more than just wins on the scoreboard. For a region known more for surfing than water polo, seeing four athletes from the Santa Barbara area compete at the highest international level inspires the next generation of players in local pools.

The tournament serves as crucial preparation for the 2028 LA Olympic Games, where these athletes could compete on home soil. Each game builds chemistry and experience for a team aiming to bring gold back to California.

Their first-place finish in Rotterdam proves Team USA is peaking at the right time, building momentum with each international competition.

The World Cup Final in Sydney this July will be the next test for these California athletes as they continue their journey toward Olympic glory.