Vanessa McNabb '23 Recruiting Profile

My name is Vanessa McNabb, a dedicated athlete who has just completed my first year at San Jose State University. Despite being medically red-shirted this year, I am confident that the extra year will only enhance my skills and knowledge, propelling me to a higher level of play. My commitment to excellence extends beyond the pool, as I plan to pursue a graduate program for my fifth year while continuing to compete.

I am currently in the transfer portal seeking new opportunities to continue my growth and contribute to another water polo program. Prior to my injury, I was not just a player, but a top-rated national player in Canada (MVP) and Top Scorer. This past year, I have used my time to fully recover and become an even stronger player, ready to make a significant impact in a new program.

Player Background

In 2022/23, I was Captain of the High-Performance club Fraser Valley Water Polo (FVWP), located in Vancouver, British Columbia. In my 2022 season, FVWP won Gold for Women's 17U Nationals, and I was named National MVP. I am also the leading goal scorer in Canada.

In 2023, I played for Gold Coast, where we placed Silver in the Gold Division. I was also named to Team BC, which competed nationally in Montreal, winning Silver last summer.  I will return to Team BC this summer, competing July 1-7 in Montreal, Canada. 

In November 2021, I was invited to join the talent pool for Canada's Senior Women's National Team with Water Polo Canada. Subsequently, I was named to the Canadian Women's Youth National Team for 2022 as an alternate for Canada's Junior Pan American Team. 

My versatility and adaptability are key strengths that I bring to the table. I have played water polo for nine years and have been involved in competitive swimming since the age of seven. I am not just a Center Forward, but also a Utility Player for my previous 19U team competing alongside players who were on Team Canada and University. I played seasonally in the High-Performance National Championship League (NCL) with Water Polo Canada, showcasing my ability to excel in different roles and environments. 

I also played on the Quebec Provincial Team in 2022, where we won Silver. I then began training in Montreal with the Women's Youth National Team. I was also named an alternate on the Women's Junior National Team.  

I have participated in the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics each summer for the past five years. In 2021, I played with Gold Coast in the Gold Division, where we won Gold. I had a scoring average of 5 goals every game, with 33 goals in 5 games and a shooting average of 87%. Ever since I was young, I have had a passion for being in the water. I want to go to university to study water polo and one day make a professional career out of it. I am a physically and mentally tough player, which I take pride in. I am very coachable, a team player, and love every aspect of the game.

My strengths are my high water polo IQ and coachability. I'm a team player, strive to be a leader and do so by setting an example for my teammates. I am excited about this next step in college athletics and look forward to finding a program and school where I can excel in and out of the pool.