Doug Finfrock Earns 200th Career Win in Season-Opening Tournament
Head Coach Doug Finfrock earned his 200th career win after defeating Sierra College, 16-7, at the Orange Coast College Tournament on Friday afternoon.
The Riverside City College women's water polo team is already celebrating after just two games into the season. Head Coach Doug Finfrock earned his 200th career win after defeating Sierra College, 16-7, at the Orange Coast College Tournament on Friday afternoon.
"It's a strange thing, but it feels good to hit the milestones," said Finfrock. "It has definitely been a group effort. I am so lucky to have had mentors like Dave Almquist, Nate Hass, Jason Northcott and now Sarah Greenwalt."
Despite the huge career milestone, Frinfrock's focus is consistently on one thing; his student-athletes.
"Most importantly, it's about the student-athletes and helping them achieve their dreams. They have, time and time again, bought into the system and given me everything they have in the pool. They are the reason why I have reached this point."
Finfrock, who has been the leader of the women's water polo program for 10 years, climbs to the top of 200 after an already impressive career. He was named the 2013 CCCAA Coach of the Year backed by being named the 2015 Southern California Coach of the Year. He currently holds a 200-49 record as a head coach.
In the midst of the excitement, the Tigers went 1-1 on the day with multiple players making their season debuts.
Riverside dropped their opening game to Fullerton, but came roaring back with a dominant victory over Sierra.
"Having to play our first game this season against Fullerton was a lot for the incoming freshman. They came in hot," said Finfrock. "There is some shell shock. But with the first game under their belts they responded well against Sierra. They played with a lot of effort and conviction."
In the win over Sierra, sophomore Taylor Mason led the way with five netters and an assist. Sophomore duo Lauren Nelson and Amber Nielson each chipped in two scores to compliment the sturdy offensive approach.
Freshman Kennedy Guidizi scored her first-career goal against Fullerton and followed with another goal against Sierra. She drew an ejection and blocked a shot as well. Freshman Grace Deen made waves as well in her inaugural contest with a goal and two assists.
Sophomore Gabriella Fisher earned the start in both games and recorded a combined nine save; six coming in the victory.
Sophomore Lauren Loffelmacher was an assist machine in the victory as she distributed a career-high five assists while adding one goal and one steal.