The third annual Navy Water Polo Golf Tournament will take place on Aug. 2 at the Sea ’N Air Golf Course on Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, where 75 golfers, many of them current active-duty or retired military, will compete in the name of supporting Naval Athletics.
The tournament is organized by alumni of the U.S. Navy (USNA) Water Polo team with a goal that is twofold: to bring people together who are connected to the program and to raise funds to support the 2024 team.
Event organizer Stacie Capobianco said the event was founded in 2022 as a way to bring alumni of the USNA Water Polo team and supporters together while the team is in California for their two week training before their season begins in Annapolis, Maryland, on Sept. 7.
“When Coach Luis Nicolao threw out the idea to the masses in early 2022, myself, parent of Caden Capobianco, and Capt. Lawrence Kough retired Navy pilot and USNA Water Polo alumni ’86 — spearheaded and executed the idea,” she said.
Because the Sea N’ Air course is on the base, a military sponsor is necessary in order to use the course. Capt. Kough was able to fill that role, while Lt. Jesse Hainze, a USNA water polo alumnus, also stepped in to help sponsor the event.
“They both help navigate the base access for our civilian guests, reserving the course and contracts. I manage the registration process and overall logistics,” Capobianco said.
The tournament sign up costs are $800 for a foursome, $200 for an individual, $250 for a tee design sponsorship, and $75 for dinner only. Proceeds from the event go towards the Navy Water Polo Excellence Fund, an annual fund used to provide resources to 36 varsity Navy athletics teams.
“It’s a great chance for the current team to connect with alumni and families in the area, Capobianco said. “Those that don’t golf can join us at 5 p.m. for dinner and awards.”
Anyone looking to purchase a tee shirt sponsorship will be able to do so before Aug. 2, providing a great opportunity for those looking to support the military and their athletic endeavors.
“We do keep the cost of the event very reasonable as we really want it to be an event that supports the USNA community,” she said.
For those interested in participating or becoming a sponsor, visit the Navy Water Polo golf tournament site.
