This post was updated Dec. 29 at 5:32 p.m.

UCLA women’s water polo coach Adam Wright has stepped away from day-to-day operations of the program for the 2026 season, the university announced Monday. 

“I have been dealing with a lot of back and nerve pain for the last six-plus months,” Wright said in a written statement provided by the university. “My hope was that I would be in a better place by now, but it has not improved, and I will need to step back from my day-to-day activity to address these health issues. This is going to take some time to figure out a plan of attack and how to handle the rehabilitation process.”

The university named men’s and women’s associate head coach Jason Falitz and men’s assistant coach Matt Kubeck interim co-head coaches for the 2026 season. The university has begun a national search for a new assistant coach for the Bruins.

Wright will continue to oversee the program, but will take on an advisory role as he focuses on his health. He is currently the UCLA men’s water polo coach as well, but the statement did not mention anything about his future with the men’s squad.

“UCLA Women’s Water Polo is in an outstanding place, and that’s a credit to our student-athletes, our staff, and our administration,” Wright said. “Jason and Matt are exceptional coaches, teachers, and leaders. I have full confidence in them to guide this program forward and continue the standard of excellence that defines UCLA and our Bruin Water Polo Teams.” 

In 2024 – his seventh season with the squad – Wright led the Bruins to an undefeated campaign and their first national championship since 2009.

Wright has had consistent results in his eight-year tenure as head coach, compiling an overall record of 172-42. The Bruins won the 2024 MPSF tournament under Wright, and he is 32-13 in tournament competition.

“We appreciate Adam’s leadership and his commitment to both programs, but he needs to prioritize his health, which is of the utmost importance,” said athletic director Martin Jarmond in a written statement provided by the university. “We have outstanding coaches in Jason and Matt to lead our talented student-athletes this season. Their continuity, leadership, and deep understanding of UCLA’s culture will help make this a seamless transition. We will support Adam and our coaches as they prepare to compete for championships once again.”

Falitz and Kubeck combine for 13 years of experience between the men’s and women’s squads. Falitz has been with the women’s program since August 2021, and was the first Bruin to earn the ACWPC Men’s Assistant Coach of the Year honors in 2023.

Kubeck has been with the men’s squad for two seasons, and helped guide the UCLA men’s water polo team to its 14th national championship this season. He has previously served as an assistant coach for the LMU women’s team and the Stanford men’s squad.

“I’m incredibly grateful for Adam’s leadership and mentorship,” Falitz said. “This program means everything to us, and we’re committed to honoring its tradition while continuing to push it forward.”

The Bruins are set to kick off their 2026 campaign Jan. 24 with two exhibition games in the Cal Cup, facing California and Stanford.