WHITTIER, Calif. – Freshman center defender Matthew Huacuja earned SCIAC Men's Water Polo Defensive Athlete of the Week honors following his performance during the Poets' two-win weekend in San Luis Obispo.

In Whittier's opening matchup against Cuesta College, Huacuja recorded three steals and drew a defensive exclusion to help the Poets secure a 15-10 victory. His three steals contributed to Whittier's team total of 13 as the Poets limited the Cougars to 10 goals.

Huacuja and the Poets earned another victory later that day, defeating NCAA Division II UC Merced, 12-10. Huacuja added another steal and contributed offensively with a second-quarter goal.

The freshman finished the weekend with four steals and a defensive exclusion, bringing his season total to nine steals.

Whittier will open SCIAC play on Saturday, Sept. 26, when the Poets travel to face the Caltech Beavers at 11 a.m.

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