LBCC Aquatics Coach Helps USA Water Polo Win Gold

LONG BEACH – Long Beach City College Head Aquatics Coach Chris Oeding helped the United States Water Polo Women’s Senior National Team achieve history during the final weekend of the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. On Saturday, August 7th, the team defeated Spain, 14-5, to secure their sixth Olympic medal and the team’s third straight gold. 

Coach Oeding, a two-time Olympian and former team captain of the United States Men’s Water Polo Senior National Team from 1993-2000, served as assistant coach to the Women’s Senior National Team while in Tokyo. He has held the title of assistant coach of the National Team since 2013, while also serving as head coach of the LBCC water polo and swimming programs since 2000. In his time at LBCC, Coach Oeding has led the Vikings to over 300 victories and seven state championships with both the men’s and women’s teams.

Dr. Mike Muñoz, Interim Superintendent-President at LBCC, recently commented on the achievements of Coach Oeding and concluded with the following statement: “At LBCC we have the most incredible faculty and staff who have shared their talents and experience with our students throughout their careers. We are so proud to have an Olympian such as Coach Oeding as a member of our Vikings Athletics program.”

The Tokyo games marked Oeding’s second Summer Olympics as a member of the coaching staff for the USA Water Polo Women’s Senior National Team. His first stint with the team came back in 2016 at the Summer Olympics in Brazil.

By Alysia Burke