Raging Waters: Senior Mihailo Vukazic Makes Waves
Photo taken by Julian Leal
Mihailo Vukazic was chosen as a finalist for one of the most prestigious individual awards in American collegiate water polo.
44 goals, 56 points, and 14 steals highlight senior Mihailo Vukazic’s remarkable season, placing him on the finalist list for the Peter J. Cutino Award.
The Peter J. Cutino Award is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious honors in American water polo, given annually to the nation's top men's water polo player. This year’s finalists include Vukazic, Max Miller from University of Southern California, and Ryder Dodd from University of California, Los Angeles. Since 2010, the University of the Pacific Men’s Water Polo team has produced eight finalists, thanks to the exceptional coaching staff and the tenacious drive of the team. Vukazic aims to become the third player in Pacific history to win the award, following Balazs Erdelyi’s win in 2014.
“I feel very proud and honored to be one of the finalists for this award, but what makes this so special is that it’s the best way to represent Pacific and my teammates.” - Mihailo Vukazic ‘25
Vukazic’s skillful gameplay and game intelligence have earned him numerous accolades throughout the season. He has earned various honors, such as the 2024 West Coast Conference (WCC) Player of the Year, an All-America First-Team selection, a three-time WCC Player of the Week award, and an All-Conference First-Team honoree. Not only is he a powerhouse as an individual player, but he was a significant contribution to the team’s success in cultivating commendable team chemistry, helping lead the Tigers to an 18-2 overall record and a victory in the WCC Regular Season Championship.
“What impressed me most about Mihailo was his ability to impact the game on both ends of the pool,” said West Coast Conference Coach of the Year, James Graham. “Not only was he a dominant shooter and goal scorer, but he changed the way teams ran their offenses with his defensive presence. His work ethic, love toward adversity, and commitment to the shared dream makes him a very deserving candidate for this award.”
The Cutino Awards will be held on the evening of Saturday, June 7, at The Olympic Club in San Francisco. USA Water Polo will live-stream the ceremony for free on Overnight.com, offering a full broadcast that includes interviews with finalists, athletes, coaches, and the complete Cutino Award presentation. We are excited to see whether Vukazic will take to the podium!
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