Alissa Mashburn Steps Down as Head Coach of Women’s Water Polo

Alissa Mashburn, Head Women's Water Polo Coach/Instructor, has stepped down from her position after 7 years at Southwestern College.   

During her tenure, she led the Jaguars to 41 wins, which included many victories within Pacific Coast Athletic Conference (PCAC) play.

An All-Conference water polo player, Southwestern College alum (2003) and former assistant coach for SWC Water Polo (2006-2012), Alissa returned to her alma mater in 2018 and led the water polo program for seven seasons. 

"After 7 years as the Head Coach of the Southwestern College Women's Water Polo team, and with much thought and consideration, I have decided to resign from my position," Mashburn said.  "It is time for me to take a step back and welcome new leadership. I have been fortunate to have worked with some great student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and athletic training staff. As an alumnus and now as a former coach I plan on doing all I can to support the program moving forward."

Southwestern College Director of Athletics Ron Valenzuela stated, "one of Mashburn's greatest legacies will lie in the lives she has touched and her humility, friendly personality, caring nature, and unwavering commitment to the sport of water polo.  Coach Mashburn showed players how to find joy in every aspect of the sport, beyond just the results. She genuinely cared about her players as people first. She created a culture that allowed athletes to feel part of a family and play for a greater purpose. Coach Mashburn's influence extended well beyond the pool and her impact will continue to shape the future of Jaguar Water Polo as her players, past and present, carry forward the life lessons she imparted.  We are very thankful and appreciative to Alissa for her contributions to our water polo program." 

Mashburn will remain on as faculty, and a search for her replacement is underway.