California women's water polo has grown five players stronger with the addition of five new Golden Bears. Hailing from California, Connecticut and New York, this group of signees is set to join head coach Coralie Simmons' program as true freshmen in 2026-27.

"This recruiting class will immediately insert a combination of raw talent, determination and a deep love for the game," Simmons said. "From their explosive speed in the pool to their relentless competitive spirit, these players are exactly what we need to continue building a championship-caliber team. We're excited to see how they will contribute to our program's legacy."
 
A Connecticut product, Julia Gustafsson has international experience as a member of the U.S. Cadet National Team, having competed at the 2024 World Aquatics U16 Championships and earning a bronze medal at the 2024 PanAm U19 Championships. Set to graduate from Greenwich High School in 2026, Gustafsson is a 5-8 attacker who has played club water polo for Greenwich Aquatics and Rocky Point Club.

Hailing from Clovis, Calif., Lucia Indart scored 44 goals at Clovis North as a junior and was honored as the 2024 TRAC Defensive Player of the Year after picking all-league honors as a freshman and sophomore. A 5-8 attacker, she plays club for Clovis Water Polo Club.
 
A San Diego native who attends The Bishop's School, Lotte Lightner competed for Germany at the 2025 European U18 Championships. On the club circuit, the 5-11 utility plays for San Diego Shores.
 
Melina Ntouli brings in additional international experience to Cal, having competed in Greece for Vouliagmeni Nautical Club before moving to New York to attend United Nations International School and play club for Asphalt Green. A 5-9 defender, she competed for Greece at the 2024 World Aquatics U16 Championships and earned silver at the 2023 LEN U15 Championships.
 
A 5-10 goalie, Caroline Starrett comes to Berkeley from Marin Academy, where she earned all-county honorable mention and most recently picked up all-league first team accolades.

This newest group of Golden Bears is set to join a Cal program that has made four straight NCAA appearances, including a trip to the 2024 final, entering this coming 2026 season.