LOS ANGELES – Following a decorated playing career at LMU, and a tenure as assistant coach with the Lions, Ikaika Aki will return to LMU as the third head coach in the history of Loyola Marymount Women's Water Polo.
 
"We are thrilled to have Ikaika back on the bluff," said Athletic Director Craig Pintens. "As a decorated alum of our water polo program, he made an even more significant impression during his time as an assistant coach. He has an incredible passion for impacting student-athletes' lives, is innovative, and has excellent water polo acumen. We couldn't be more ecstatic to welcome back Ikaika."
 
Aki returns to the Lions after serving the last year as the head coach of both the boy's and girl's water polo teams at San Clemente High School. Prior to taking the head job with the Tritons, Aki served two seasons each as an assistant coach for the men's and women's programs at LMU beginning in 2019 and helped navigate the Lions through the shortened 2020 spring season.
 
"Returning to LMU as the Head Coach of the Women's program is a dream come true," said Aki. "I've spent many years at LMU, both as a student-athlete and a coach. Those experiences have allowed me to truly understand what the program, school, and area have to offer, and I am looking forward to showcasing my alma mater to prospective student-athletes from around the nation and the world."
 
Aki finished his career as Conference Player of the Year in the Western Water Polo Association in 2010 and as a two-time AWPCA Honorable Mention All-America. The Honolulu, Hawaii, native graduated as the LMU men's program's all-time record holder in steals and blocks, and second in career assists.
 
"I want to thank Craig Pintens, Ashley Armstrong, and Tim Snyder for this opportunity," added Aki. "I believe in their leadership and direction and know that the school and athletics programs will continue to excel and compete with the very best. I also want to thank Kyle Witt for his guidance and insight. Witt has been a true mentor and I wish him the best of luck in his new venture. With that said, it's time to get to work. I'm bringing a tireless work ethic, attention to detail, and passion for the game that will be seen each and every day of my employment. I'm looking for athletes who enjoy varied and creative training methods, film sessions and team bonding, and have a passion for the game that will be seen each and every day of their time on the bluff. To all returners, it's great to be working with you again. Let's finish what you started last year and have as much fun as possible along the way. Go Lions!"
 
The spring 2023 season will be Aki's first in his new role.

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