Nicole Payne
By Daily Bruin Staff
June 14, 1998 9:00 p.m.
Monday, June 15, 1998
Nicole Payne
Women’s Water Polo
Payne, considered the best player in the young history of the
UCLA women’s water polo program, starred at the goalie position for
four years. She helped lead the program to three NCAA Championships
in four years under head coach Guy Baker. Payne is best known for
her natural athleticism and indefatigable work ethic.
Career highlights: In her fifth season on the U.S. National
Team. Was the first UCLA women’s water polo recruit.A three time
national champion. Four time All-American. Four-year team captain.
1996 National Player of the Year. 225 saves and 2.77 goals against
average in the 1998 season (school record)
Coach’s quote: "She’s the best athlete we’ve had (on the women’s
water polo team) in four years, but her career is far from over.
She’s going to go on for least two more years, shooting for the
Sydney Olympics."
-UCLA assistant coach Adam Krikorian
