By: Jessica Shusko '15
SANTA CLARA, Calif.- After helping the No. 14 Broncos go 4-1 over the weekend, men's water polo's goalie Matt Pritchett has been named KAP7 WWPA Player of the week. Pritchett tallied 78 saves in five games, including 24 saves in the Broncos first conference win of the season over No. 20 Cal Baptist.
"We played five games last weekend - all against ranked teams - and Matt Pritchett played outstanding in every single game," said former Princeton goalie All-American and Broncos head coach Keith Wilbur. "He had 78 blocks over the course of the weekend, and for those who are new to water polo, that is a huge amount of blocks in a five game stretch. Every game was close this past weekend, and Pritchett's play in the cage was key to every win."
Pritchett has anchored the defense for the Broncos this year and has come up with some crucial saves that has lead the Broncos to big victories over UC San Diego and their first conference win of the season over Cal Baptist. He has recorded 261 saves this season, beating his record of 172 blocks from last season.
"It means a lot to me to be named Kap7 WWPA Player Of The Week," said Pritchett. "I am honored and humbled in receiving this highly coveted award. To me, this award recognizes all of the hard work and effort that I've put in during the off-season, and pre-season, as well as our season thus far. I see myself earning this award as the WWPA's way of acknowledging good all-around play. Four years ago, I dedicated myself to this school and this program. I love the game, and I think you can see the passion I have for the sport when you watch me play."
Whether it's his dads cheers from the sidelines or fellow goalie Larry Andrews tips in between quarters, Pritchett has been a key player to the Broncos this season, and credits much of his success to those who support him. Pritchett's passion for the game has continued since joining the Broncos back in 2010. After red-shirting his freshman year, Pritchett has see action in many games and continues to motivate and support his team from the backcourt.