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Bella Raynes, a dedicated water polo student-athlete from Auckland, New Zealand, partnered with Platform Sports in 2022 to pursue her dream of competing in the American college system. In the fall of 2023, Bella joined West Valley College, a top-tier program within the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) and the competitive Coast Conference.
Located in Saratoga, California, West Valley College is a respected institution in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering the perfect environment for student-athletes to excel both in the pool and in the classroom.
The West Valley Aquatics Center is at the heart of the college’s water polo success and is renowned as one of California’s premier facilities.
Facility Highlights Include:
The Aquatics Center has been home to outstanding achievements, including the seven-time CCCAA champion Viking men’s team and the 2021 champion Viking women’s team. It has also hosted marquee events, such as the 2018 CCCAA State Championships and regular Coast Conference tournaments.
West Valley College offers Bella the ideal platform to develop her athletic talent while pursuing her academic goals. Competing in such a successful program will allow Bella to sharpen her skills alongside dedicated teammates and under expert coaching.
Her journey exemplifies the opportunities that the U.S. college system provides for athletes ready to take the next step in their careers.
Platform Sports guided Bella through every stage of the recruitment process, helping her identify a program that matched her aspirations. With a seamless transition to West Valley College, Bella is now set to thrive in one of the best collegiate water polo environments in California.
Bella’s story is just beginning, and we’re thrilled to watch her continue to grow as an athlete and a student. With her talent, drive, and the exceptional support at West Valley College, there’s no doubt Bella will make a significant impact for the Viking women’s water polo team this season.
The right team. The right programme. The right future.
Bella’s success proves that with the right guidance and opportunities, dreams of playing college sports in the U.S. can come true. Whether you’re an aspiring water polo player or a student-athlete ready to take the next step, Platform Sports is here to help you every step of the way.