LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne is proud to announce Robert Echeverria as the full-time head coach for both the men's and women's water polo programs, as announced by Director of Athletics Dr. Jenna Panatier. Echeverria, who has served as the Leopards' interim head coach since January, officially takes the reins full-time, bringing more than two decades of coaching experience at the high school, collegiate, and club levels.
"We're thrilled to officially welcome Rob Echeverria as our full-time head coach for both the men's and women's water polo programs at La Verne," said Director of Athletics Dr. Jenna Panatier. "His deep coaching experience, past success with our teams, and commitment to student-athlete development make him the right leader for this next chapter. Coach Rob's return brings both continuity and new energy, and we're excited for what lies ahead under his leadership."
Echeverria is no stranger to the Leopard community. He most recently served as the interim head coach this past spring, leading the La Verne women's water polo team to the SCIAC Tournament. Previously, he served as a graduate assistant at La Verne from 2018 to 2020, a period that saw both the men's and women's programs flourish. The women's 2019 squad reached the SCIAC Semifinals, narrowly missing a spot in the title game, while the 2020 team finished an abbreviated season undefeated against NCAA Division III competition, also securing victories over Division I and II opponents including Villanova, St. Francis Brooklyn, and Fresno Pacific. During Echeverria's first tenure, La Verne water polo players combined for seven All-American honors.
Before stepping in as the Leopards' interim head coach, Echeverria spent time with Whittier College's men's program, helping guide the Poets to an 18-10 record, three All-SCIAC accolades, and the SCIAC Newcomer of the Year.
Echeverria's coaching resume also includes impressive high school success. As head coach at Damien High School, he led the Spartans to the CIF Southern Section Division 3 Championship and a Baseline League title, earning CIF-SS Division 3 Coach of the Year honors. He also led St. Lucy's Priory High School and Westridge School to league championships and guided South Pasadena High School to six league titles between the boys' and girls' programs. His excellence was recognized multiple times as San Gabriel Valley Coach of the Year.
At the collegiate level, Echeverria began his head coaching career at Los Angeles Valley College, leading the women's program to a Western State Conference title and two runner-up finishes.
In addition to his work at La Verne and other institutions, Echeverria has been a fixture in the club scene, developing athletes at Rose Bowl Aquatics and founding the South Pasadena Water Polo Club. His Rose Bowl squads captured multiple Junior Olympics national titles.
Echeverria holds a master's degree in special education studies from the University of La Verne and a bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Cal State Los Angeles.
"I'm truly honored to be selected as the Head Coach for the University of La Verne men's and women's water polo teams," said Echeverria. "I'm excited to build on the proud tradition of this program and help our student-athletes grow both in and out of the pool. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated coaching staff, talented athletes, and supportive community to elevate University of La Verne water polo within the conference and take it to the next level. I'm especially grateful to the athletic department administrators, university leadership, and our athletes for trusting me with this incredible opportunity to lead."
The Leopards open a new chapter in their storied water polo history under the leadership of a coach with deep roots in the program and a proven record of success at every level.
