Personal Statement
My name is Ronin Araucto and I recently relocated from Seattle, WA to Irvine, CA in order to have greater access to the best water polo training available and achieve my goal of playing the game I love in the NCAA. Water polo combines individual and team elements which is where I thrive as a 2M defender and Utility. As a former #1 ranked diver in WA and swimmer, I quickly took to water polo. My long, lean body type (6'5" and an extremely long wingspan of 6'7") help me keep the ball away from most players. In 2021 I led my 14U summer league team (Olympic View Swim Club) to Seattle All City Championships as Captain. In 2022, I led the 18U team to their first Seattle Summer League Championships. I have played high school Varsity for 2 years and helped the team make the state championship both years. In 2022, as a Sophomore, I started all games and received 2nd Team State Honors.Our team finished 5th, up from 10th the previous year.
In 2021 I played for Northwest Water Polo Club team and completed the JO cycle in the 16U Platinum Division. I attended a week long Malibu Water Polo Camp and a 6-8 Summer Camp as well. In 2022-23 I joined Rain City and have been competing as 18U in all west coast events on our way to the Championship JO division in Cycle 1 in Orange County.
I have also danced and performed professionally as a young child. I mention this because it has taught me how to take direction, respect authority and handle myself with control. Additionally, as a competitive video game player I have an unusual knack for seeing the field and guiding my team for their best opportunity. Seeing the big picture is a unique skill I bring. Playing water polo at the collegiate level is a huge goal of mine and I know I can achieve it just like I helped my teams succeed. I may not have played as long as others, however passion and quick growth curve set me apart. My family has sacrificed a move to California to support me and I look forward to showing you all how I can contribute to your team!
