Adam Wright Officially Resigns as Head Coach of UCLA Women’s Water Polo
Seven months after stepping away from his day-to-day role as head coach of the UCLA women’s water polo, Adam Wright has officially resigned from the position. UCLA Athletics announced Wright’s decision in a press release that was sent out on Friday. Wright initially stepped away to rehab back and nerve pain. Although Wright resigned as women’s coach, he will remain the head coach of the men’s squad.
The press release indicated that UCLA will conduct a national search for its next women’s coach. Last season, the Bruins were led by interim coaches Jason Falitz and Matt Kubeck and advanced to the NCAA semifinals, where they fell to USC. UCLA compiled a 21-5 record.
“This is an incredibly difficult moment because this program has meant so much to my life,” Wright said in a written statement. “I am so proud of what we’ve built together, and I am grateful for every student-athlete, coach and staff member who has been a part of this journey. This program is bigger than any one person, and its success and championship culture have been built on the people who wear the UCLA cap every day.”
Wright has coached the men’s and women’s programs since 2017 and guided the women’s squad to an NCAA championship and undefeated season in 2024. He most recently led the Bruins to a second straight NCAA men’s crown.
“Adam Wright’s impact on UCLA Athletics is extraordinary, and we are grateful for everything he has done for our university and student-athletes, both in and out of the pool,” UCLA Director of Athletics Martin Jarmond said in a written statement. “His leadership of our women’s team, highlighted by the 2024 NCAA championship, helped elevate the program to an elite level.”