April 3 - Seattle, WA

Northwest Water Polo Club 14u head coach Vee Valle has been named the winner of the Brenda Villa Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The announcement was made by USA Water Polo on March 28, 2023, as part of the 2022 USA Water Polo Zone Award Winners. The Brenda Villa Award, named after the legendary water polo Olympian, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sport of water polo. 

Vee Valle is a well-known advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sport of water polo. Valle has been an active member of USA Water Polo since the late 90's and played/coached throughout California and Washington. Coach Vee is always working to promote diversity and inclusion throughout the sport and Northwest. In announcing the award, USA Water Polo noted that Valle's work has had a significant impact on the sport and has helped to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all water polo players.

Valle was quick to thank USA Water Polo and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the award. "I am deeply honored to receive the Brenda Villa Award," said Valle. "I am grateful to USA Water Polo and the DEI Committee for their ongoing commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our sport. Every day at Northwest we are working on teaching athletes to be good teammates and better people, hopefully we can keep helping water polo players develop in and out of the water". 

Valle's recognition comes at a time when the sport of water polo is becoming increasingly diverse and inclusive. As more and more athletes from diverse backgrounds take up the sport, it is important that the water polo community continues to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the sport. The Brenda Villa Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of individuals like Vee Valle who are committed to making water polo a more inclusive and welcoming sport for all. Congratulations to Vee Valle on this well-deserved honor!

More information about USAWP and the full list of Award Winners can be found here,