LA VERNE, CA — The Southern California Intercollegiate Atletic Conference tabbed Eric Bates as the SCIAC Men's Water Polo Offensive Athlete of the Week the organization announced Monday.

SCIAC Release

Bates finished with 35 saves for the Leopards at the Inland Empire Tournament. He was clutch in a 15-10 win over Ottawa University Arizona, grabbing 15 saves with a steal to spur the Leopards to a victory. 

He totaled nine saves and one steal in a 13-11 win over NCAA Division II Fresno Pacific. Bates added five saves in a half against No. 12 UC Santa Barbara, and six saves in 16 minutes against No. 20 Cal Baptist.

The Leopards travel to the Air Force Academy to play in the Rare Air Challenge this week. La Verne opens on Saturday, September 21 against Concordia Irvine and Iona. The next day the Leopards face Augustana and Cerritos.

Previous La Verne SCIAC Athlete of the Week
Mya Ray, Volleyball Offensive, September 2
Kayla Allen, Women's Soccer Offensive, September 9
Zacky Coaston, Volleyball Defensive, September 9