Rustlers Claim 35th Consecutive OEC Title

In a dominant performance, the Golden West College men's water polo team claimed their 35th consecutive Orange Empire Conference title with a 14-7 victory over Orange Coast College on a beautiful sunny day in Huntington Beach. This win boosts Golden West's record to 31-4 as they continue their legacy in the conference.

Golden West established control early, leading 3-1 after the first quarter with goals from Edward Handley, Neven Cerkez, and James Smith. Cerkez led the Rustlers with three goals, showing his skill in critical moments throughout the match. The Rustlers expanded their lead to 5-3 by halftime, with Cerkez and Handley adding to the score.

The third quarter was a turning point as Golden West surged ahead with six unanswered goals, creating an 11-3 gap and showcasing their offensive prowess. Michael Rodgers, who scored twice and tallied three assists, set up plays effectively, while Joao Goncalves and Jack Wright added to the tally with strong individual efforts.

In the fourth, Zeno Kormendi's two quick goals extended the lead to 13-3, ensuring the Rustlers stayed firmly in control. Despite a late push from Orange Coast's Sawyer McCormick and Cade Zeilinger, Golden West maintained a comfortable lead, with Gavin Little scoring the final Rustlers' goal to seal the 14-7 victory.

Golden West's goalies, Boston Frost and Pablo Souza, combined for eight saves, with Souza recording six in the last three quarters, anchoring the defense in the championship game.