Saddleback keeper heading to Pepperdine

The Saddleback men's water polo team had its most successful season ever in 2021 after finishing third at the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) State Championships in November.  Despite being a fairly young team, one member of the Bobcats has decided on a four-year school for next year as goalkeeper Nathan James has made a commitment.

James will take his game to Pepperdine University, located in Malibu, California.  The Waves play in the Golden Coast Conference and finished 14-13 in 2021. 

Saddleback used as many as three goalkeepers in 2021 but the top guy in the rotation was James, who finished the season 18-5.  James was an All-Orange Empire Conference selection and an All-America selection in 2021, playing 68 quarters for the Bobcats with a 48.6% save percentage.

James came to Saddleback from Garces Memorial High School (Bakersfield) where he lettered in water polo before graduating in 2020.  In addition to water polo, James was part of the Saddleback swim program that captured the Orange Empire Conference title in the spring of 2021.

While at GMHS, James was an East Yosemite League MVP and an All-CIF First Team selection, setting the school record for saves.