Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado, kicks off its first ever collegiate water polo tournament this weekend on September 20 and 21, 2025. The event marks a big step for the schools club team, which has built up slowly since starting as a class back in 2010.
Roots of Water Polo at CMU
Water polo first came to Colorado Mesa University more than a decade ago. It began as a simple class to introduce students to the sport. Over time, that class turned into a full club team under the guidance of coach John Hildebrand.
The journey has not been easy. Hildebrand notes that the club saw ups and downs in player numbers over the years. Interest would spike, then drop based on who showed up each season. In fact, out of the past 15 years, the team only had enough players to face off against other schools in four seasons. This year stands out as the first since 2019 where they have a solid roster ready to compete.
The growth ties into broader trends in college club sports. Many universities now push club programs to give more students a chance to play without the pressure of varsity levels. At CMU, this approach has helped build a dedicated group despite the challenges.
Tournament Schedule and Teams
The tournament falls under the Collegiate Water Polo Association Rocky Mountain Division. It features 16 games over two days, with teams from across the region coming to Grand Junction. This setup lets CMU players test their skills against stronger opponents.
Fans can catch the action live, as some games get streamed online. The first match starts at 11:20 a.m. on Saturday. Players on the CMU team will experience their debut in such an event, blending excitement with a focus on learning.
Here is a quick look at the key matchups for CMU:
- Colorado State University
- University of Utah
- Colorado School of Mines
These games highlight the competitive nature of the Rocky Mountain Division. Other teams in the mix include strong programs that have been active in CWPA events for years. The schedule builds toward a round robin format, ensuring plenty of action.
| Date | Time | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 20 | 11:20 a.m. | CMU vs. Colorado State | CMU Pool, Grand Junction |
| Sept 20 | Afternoon | CMU vs. University of Utah | CMU Pool, Grand Junction |
| Sept 21 | Morning | CMU vs. Colorado School of Mines | CMU Pool, Grand Junction |
| Sept 21 | Afternoon | Additional division games | CMU Pool, Grand Junction |
This table shows the main slots, though full details may shift slightly based on final adjustments.
Insights from Coach and Players
John Hildebrand, the long time coach, shares a positive view on the teams progress. He points out how tough water polo can be, with its mix of swimming endurance and team strategy. Yet, he loves seeing students commit and grow to enjoy the game. The sport demands a lot, but that challenge builds strong bonds among players.
Declan Graves, the club president, echoes that enthusiasm. He is thrilled about facing reputable schools like those in the tournament. For many on the team, this is a fresh chance to shine in a structured setting. Graves and others see it as a way to boost the programs visibility on campus.
The team aims to stay competitive while soaking up lessons from each match. Hildebrand stresses that winning matters, but so does developing skills for future play. This balance helps keep the club sustainable amid fluctuating interest.
Growing Popularity of Water Polo in Colleges
Water polo remains less common than football or basketball in the U.S., especially in land locked states like Colorado. Still, club levels have seen steady growth nationwide. The CWPA now oversees over 100 teams, with divisions like Rocky Mountain expanding to include more schools.
Recent events show the sports appeal. For instance, national championships draw crowds, and streaming options make it easier for fans to follow. At CMU, hosting this tournament could spark more local interest. It ties into other aquatic sports on campus, like swimming, which have strong followings.
Experts note that water polo builds fitness and teamwork in unique ways. Players often praise its intensity, comparing it to a chess match in the water. For students at CMU, this event offers practical benefits, from stress relief to networking with peers from other universities.
Future Outlook for CMU Water Polo
Looking ahead, this tournament sets the stage for bigger things. With enough players this season, the club hopes to compete more regularly. Hildebrand plans to recruit actively, drawing from the class that started it all.
The event also highlights CMUs commitment to club sports. Unlike some schools that focus only on big revenue programs, CMU invests in options like water polo to engage a wider student body. Success here could lead to more home events and even varsity consideration down the line.
As water polo gains traction in the Rocky Mountain area, CMU positions itself as a key player. The weekend games will test that, but early signs point to a bright path forward.
Share your thoughts on this exciting milestone for CMU water polo in the comments below, and spread the word to friends who love college sports.
