Neushul takes over UCSB women’s water polo

Cathy Neushul, who has served as the assistant women’s water polo coach for the past three seasons at UCSB, has been promoted to head coach as the Gauchos enter their 16th season as a Division I program.

Wolf Wigo, who coached the team for the past three seasons, will continue in a top level leadership role for the women’s program as Director of Water Polo with a focus on fundraising efforts, particularly for the new intercollegiate aquatics center.

During her three seasons as an assistant coach, Neushul has helped Wigo guide the Gauchos to a 51-37 record.

Neushul’s history with Gaucho water polo dates back to her own playing days when she was an All-American for UCSB’s club team. In 1986, she was a member of the United States National Team. Neushul also served as a player and coach for UCSB from 1986-89 and then became the head coach of the Gauchos from 1991-92, while it was still a club program.

“I am looking forward to continuing the tradition of excellence set forth by Wolf in his leadership of the women’s program,” Neushul said. “We have an outstanding freshman class and a wealth of experience in our returning upper classmen. I am excited to lead this fine group of women and to uphold UCSB Athletics’ tradition of developing outstanding students and athletes.”