Steven Kaufmann '13 Recruiting Profile

My name is Steven Kaufmann. I am a six foot-one, 178 lb athlete, who believes it takes the effort of an entire team to be champions. I am a "TEAM PLAYER." I work hard, with the hopes and dreams of playing water polo in college. Everything I have ever done has been as a "team player". I have befriended many teammates throughout my life in sports like t-ball, little league, soccer, volleyball, and now water polo, getting to know each and every one well. I know who my teammates are. Every player has a personality; I know them and how they play. "You are only as strong as your weakest link." Everyone has strengths and weakness', and it's important to know them. As players on the field change, so does the dynamic of the game. Know your players, and your team stays strong. Teamwork is important, the pass is as important as the goal, if the ball is never passed, the ball will not get to the goal. GOALS win the game! Being the first to arrive to practice or games, I can greet my teammates, observe their frame of mind and, already having the knowledge of their strengths or weakness' from practices, I know what they are capable of achieving in the game. Being one of the last to leave, I can offer an ear, or help with a suggestion. Most importantly, I will let them know I am always there for them. My experiences learning water polo since 4th grade has earned me a respected position as a teammate of the Clovis Elite Water Polo Club. We have played many local and out of town scrimmages and tournaments, such as Winterfest and Junior Olympics. Over the years I have earned awards such as, "Hardest Worker", "Coaches Award", "Most Improved" and "Jim Coiner Sportsmanship Award". This hard work and dedication has earned me a respected position as coach for the upcoming 4th - 6th graders. I coach during off season and summers. Regular scrimmages are set up between local high schools holding camps for the same age kids. Whether I attend a big or small college is not my most important concern. I am comfortable in both scenarios. Geographically, I can adapt. I am looking for a school where not only can I play water polo, but get a great education. I have an older brother who just completed his first year of college, and a twin sister who will begin college at the same time as me. Due to the financial needs of my family, I have been looking and applying for scholarships starting this year.