Riley Hayner '27 Recruiting Profile

Water polo has been more than just a sport for me, it’s been a platform for growth, resilience, and discovering my potential. I started playing water polo during Covid, in middle school,  and was immediately hooked by the intensity, teamwork, and challenge it presented. I knew early on that this sport was something special, and since then, I have aspired to compete at the collegiate level. I see playing in college not only as an incredible opportunity but also as a way to continue growing as both an athlete and a person.

Over the years, water polo has taught me some of the most valuable lessons in life: perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of teamwork.  I learned to channel frustration into determination. I focused on injury-preventative exercises and studied game footage, which has helped me become stronger, more focused, and even more motivated to contribute to my team.

In the pool, I pride myself on being a hardworking and well-rounded athlete. I’ve worked hard to excel as a center defender, anchoring our team’s defense with strong positioning, quick reactions, and the ability to read plays under pressure. My defensive skills, paired with my shooting strength, make me a reliable presence on both ends of the pool. My grit and mental toughness allow me to stay focused and consistently perform in high-stakes situations. As a team leader, I strive to lead by example, always encouraging my teammates to give their best. I’m also very coachable and often assist my coach by helping run practices and mentoring younger teammates.

Off the pool deck, I bring the same level of dedication to my academics and community. I have worked hard to maintain a 4.33 GPA and was honored to be recognized as an Outstanding Academic All-American Water Polo athlete. I am pursuing the Congressional Award, which reflects my commitment to voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and exploration. Additionally, I am a founding member and board member of Gen U SLO, a nonprofit organization that fosters connections between generations to promote health, sustainability, and global impact through local initiatives. These experiences have helped me grow as a leader and taught me the importance of making a positive difference in the world.

Water polo has shaped me into someone who values hard work, collaboration, and resilience. It has shown me the rewards of pushing beyond my comfort zone and striving for excellence in all areas of life. I am excited about the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level and bring my passion, dedication, and leadership to a team that values growth and commitment. I am ready to take the next step in my journey, both in and out of the water, and make a lasting impact on my future team and community.