Born: 1998 (Newport Beach, California)
Biography:
Madeline Maddie Musselman, born on June 16, 1998, is an American water polo player who has achieved remarkable success both at the collegiate and international levels. Her contributions to the sport have solidified her as one of the greatest players in women’s water polo history.
Maddie’s journey in water polo began at an early age. Growing up in Newport Beach, California, she was surrounded by a culture deeply rooted in aquatics. With a father, Jeff Musselman, who previously played Major League Baseball, Maddie was destined to pursue a career in sports. She gravitated towards water polo, drawn to its competitiveness and team dynamics.
Her talents quickly flourished, and by the time she reached high school, Maddie was already making waves. As a student-athlete at Corona del Mar High School, she led her team to multiple championships and garnered numerous individual accolades. Her dominance in the pool attracted the attention of top college programs across the country.
In 2016, Maddie committed to play water polo at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), one of the most esteemed programs in the nation. Representing the Bruins, she continued to showcase her exceptional skills and became a vital contributor to the team’s success. Throughout her four-year collegiate career, she shattered records and earned numerous awards, solidifying her status as a water polo prodigy.
Maddie’s accomplishments at UCLA only set the stage for her international career. She made her debut on the global stage in 2015, winning gold medals at both the FINA World Championships in Kazan, Russia, and the Pan American Games in Toronto. Her performance caught the attention of water polo enthusiasts worldwide, recognizing her as an emerging star.
However, it was the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro that truly catapulted Maddie into the international spotlight. As a key member of the American team, she helped secure a gold medal for her country. Impressively, Maddie emerged as the second-leading goal scorer for the US team, netting 12 goals throughout the tournament. Her exceptional play earned her a spot on the Olympic All-Star Team, further solidifying her reputation as an elite athlete.
Over the years, Maddie’s dominance continued to grow. At the 2017 FINA World Championships, she played an integral role in Team USA’s gold medal victory. Notably, she scored an impressive 16 goals in just six games, including a hat trick in the final-round win over Spain. Maddie was recognized as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, a testament to her outstanding skill and relentless drive.
Her success at international competitions did not stop there. In 2021, Maddie once again proved her mettle, earning the MVP title at the FINA World League Super Final. This achievement marked the fourth time in her career that she had been named MVP of a major international tournament.
At the 2020ne Summer Olympics held in Tokyo, Maddie’s dedication and determination propelled her and the USA team to victory once again. Named Woman’s water polo MVP, she played a vital role in securing a gold medal for her country. Throughout the tournament, Maddie showcased her scoring prowess, finishing as one of the highest leading scorers with an impressive 18 goals.
Off the field, Maddie’s impact extends beyond her athletic achievements. As a role model, she inspires young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly and to excel in male-dominated sports. Her unwavering dedication, infectious enthusiasm, and incredible work ethic serve as a beacon for aspiring athletes everywhere.
As a true trailblazer in women’s water polo, Maddie’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come. Her remarkable achievements have already carved her place in the annals of women’s sports history. Maddie Musselman’s extraordinary contributions and indelible mark on the sport continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of female athletes.
Awards:
– Woman’s water polo MVP at the 2020ne Summer Olympics in Tokyo
– MVP of the FINA World League Super Final in 2019 and 2021
– MVP of the FINA World Championships in 2017
– Four-time First-Team All-American at UCLA
– 2021 and 2022 Women’s Total Player of the Year by Total Waterpolo
– Gold medalist at the 2016 Summer Olympics
– Gold medalist at the 2015 FINA World Championships
– Gold medalist at the Pan American Games in 2015
– Nominated for the Sullivan and Cutino award in 2022
– 2017 Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Newcomer of the Year.