Aeson Buckley '27 Recruiting Profile

Hello coaches, 

My name is Aeson Buckley, and I attend Ramona High School in Ramona, California. I was introduced to water polo when I was 10 years old and started playing competitively as a freshman in 2023. I've always enjoyed being in the water, not just playing water polo but swimming, surfing, and lifeguarding, too. Playing water polo and representing my school while I pursue a degree in international marketing or business is my ultimate goal. I envision being surrounded by teammates and coaches who will help me grow and develop into the best version of myself. I appreciate the dynamics of playing at the college level and the responsibility, work, and effort that go into a demanding program.

Determined to succeed in my first year of club water polo, I earned a place on the Poway Valley Water Polo 16U Black (A ) team in May 2024 after starting on the Silver (C) team in Dec. 2023 and was able to participate in the 2024 USA Junior Olympics. My ability to perform under pressure, keep a level head, make correct decisions, present myself as a leader and teammate, and play water polo with selflessness are a few of my strengths. But these are skills I know I can always improve on. I strive to be one of the hardest workers, coachable players, and reliable teammates in the pool.

I've competed in various tournaments in Southern California with my club and high school teams. I also recently returned from a training camp in Cavtat, Croatia, where I was coached by Elvis Fatovic, Milo Bobic, Rob Lynn and others. Over the next two years, I hope to attend ODP clinics, showcases, and other training camps to learn more and get exposure from respected coaches and programs in the area. Learning more about nutrition and spending time in the gym, weightlifting and working out are important to me as well.

A lot of the hard work I put into water polo is a reflection of the kind of student I am. I maintained a 4.0 GPA my freshman year and completed my sophomore year with a 4.4. I am proud that I earned the USA Water Polo Outstanding Academic All-American award and a Ramona High School Academic Excellence Award. I take AP and honors classes and enjoy the challenge of learning at a higher level.

When the time comes, I look forward to the life lessons and learning opportunities college will bring. I want to be inspired and challenged in the classroom while working with a group of like-minded teammates and coaches to set goals and celebrate achievements together. I want to be a positive role model for other students from my small community and to make my family and friends proud.