Morgan Jones
Women's Water Polo
Year: Junior
Major: Art, Education
Hometown: Murrieta, California

What drew you to UC Irvine and how has your experience been so far?
I chose to attend UCI due to its challenging academics and successful water polo program. I love going to the beach and being able to live on the peninsula in Newport Beach was a huge factor in my decision as well. It is also about an hour away from my hometown so I am able to see my family a lot while still being able to get the full college experience. So far, I love UCI! UCI has helped contribute to my growth as a better student, athlete, and person. I am so blessed for all the experiences and opportunities I have been given so far.

What inspired you to become an Art major with a minor in digital media, and what are your career goals?
I am actually now double majoring in Art and Education. Many people think I am an Art major because I like to draw or paint; however, I have always had an interest in cameras, digital software like Adobe, and media/design so I chose Art since there are many classes provided in that area. That is also why I picked up the minor Digital media because it specializes in that field of interest. I just recently decided to double major with Education because both of my parents are teachers and I look up to them a lot. I am very interested in becoming a future educator for younger children specifically elementary grade levels.

Last year you became the starting goalie and were named to the All-Big West First Team. What were your expectations when you found out you would be starting last year? Did you expect to have the results you had?
Starting or not, I have always had high expectations for myself in and out of the pool. My goals for every year have been to work hard, be coachable, and a good teammate. Last year's results were great, but I believe there's more room in my water polo career for growth and improvement. I contribute my personal success last year to my teammates because they pushed me everyday to want to achieve my goals and be the best version of myself.
 
What are your expectations for this season for yourself and the team?
My goals for this season are to work hard and give my all during every practice and game and to be the best teammate I can be. I think the team this year is very unique with many talented, hard-working individuals who play with a lot of heart. Our biggest goal this year, as well as every year, is to win Big West and NCAA's. Our goals throughout the season, are to grow as players and individuals as well as reach our full potential regardless of the score of a game or outcome of the season.
 
How do you spend your free time when you are not in school or at water polo?
When I am not at school or in the pool and have free time, which is very rare, I like to enjoy the day at the beach, spend time with my friends or family, pet dogs, go shopping, or go for a run. Before I started playing water polo, I rode horses almost everyday and I haven't been able to ride in years! I hope sometime soon when I have time or after college I can pick up that hobby again because I really miss it. I also really like to travel and after college I hope to road trip throughout the U.S. or possibly visit Greece and Italy.

What is your most memorable moment thus far in your collegiate career?
My most memorable moment so far in my collegiate career was winning Big West during my freshman year at our home pool. This moment was so special because throughout the 2018 season we were struggling to connect as a team since half of the team was new, and during the championship game we were able to put our differences aside and finally come together as a team and defeat Hawaii for the Championship title in sudden-death.

What/who would you contribute your success to?
My parents. They both have given me so much throughout my fifteen years of playing this sport. I value every word of advice and encouragement they have ever said to me. They have dedicated large amounts of their time and have supported every decision I have made. I can always count on a motivational text or good luck call before every game. I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for the both of them. Love you mom and dad!

Do you have any pregame rituals?
Before every game I usually listen to music to try and calm my nerves. While I am listening to music, I run through the game plan in my head to help me be prepared. I always have a new favorite song every week so the type of music I listen to always changes. Currently, my favorite song is "Adore You" by Harry Styles.

What is the most difficult part about being a goalie in water polo?
The most difficult part of being a goalie for me is having confidence in myself. There is a lot of pressure on goalies and it is important to always stay positive/in the right state of mind if scored on. Having trust in my capabilities has always been difficult for me because I am very hard on myself. It's easy to be confident when everything is going your way during a game. However, what really matters is to remain confident when a goal goes in, even if you are doing everything you can. When a goalie is able to maintain belief in themselves throughout a game, it inspires a composed effect to their teammates.