Senior Tara Prentice returned from the World University Games in Naples, Italy. Prentice and sophomore Piper Smith were selected to represent Team USA at the 30^th Summer Universiade. The games took place from July 2-14. 

Team USA finished the international competition in eighth place, falling to China, 10-9, in the last game of the tournament. Over the two week event, Prentice compiled four goals including a team-high two goals against Australia to close out group play.

Prentice, a two-time All-American, finished a spectacular junior season where she led UCI in scoring with 70 goals, the second-most by an Anteater in a single season. She was selected to the All-Big West First Team and also finished with 24 steals and 11 assists.

"I am so thankful that I got to be a part of the World University Games. UCI has opened so many doors for me both academically and athletically and I feel no thank you will do it any justice. I would not be where I am without the constant support of my teammates, coaches, and family. The success Piper and I were able to achieve at this level is truly a reflection of all the great things we experience every single day at UCI. 

 

 

It was amazing to see so many athletes and be a part of this event. Meeting so many people from different countries is something I will truly cherish for the rest of my life. The Opening Ceremonies alone is something I will never forget. Hearing the Italians sing their National Anthem gave me goosebumps. There was so much pride and passion at this event. It was amazing to be a small snippet of this competition. Getting to travel to various places in Italy is also something I will cherish. Not every day do you get to do something you love while being with people you love. Getting to see Italy with teammates and family was so special. Places like Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and more are places I will have to come back to in the future! I couldn't get enough! Don't even get me started on the gelato!!
 

It was amazing to watch such high level water polo. It has deepened my passion for water polo and I am ready to get after it this season at UCI. It was also very special to have this experience with Piper. I have always admired her work ethic and desire for greatness. She is a great teammate and someone I know I can always count on. It was amazing seeing her share this passion with our teammates and inspiring them. I learned a lot from my teammates, coaches, and the whole experience in general. Although we did not finish where we wanted, it wasn't just about us. We were representing our universities and the USA. What mattered most was that we gave our all because that is what our colleges and country demand of us. There was no time to feel down or be hard on ourselves. I am thankful for the experience and wouldn't change one thing. It's important to build on this and continue to push on. It was an absolute honor getting to wear the red, white, and blue and one I hope I get to do once again in the future.
 

 

The last thing I will say about the experience that truly made it special was seeing all our parents over there. Behind every athlete is our selfless parents who do anything to ensure our  happiness and growth as individuals. Every time my name was called before the game I would turn around and get to wave to the ecstatic, hollering of my brother, sister, and mum. For me, that's what pushes me. My family and all the people who allow me to grow and learn. They allow me to relentlessly pursue my dreams and I am grateful I have them in my life."