BERKELEY – Jeff Tyrrell, who previously spent 10 seasons on the California men's water polo team's coaching staff, has returned to the program as associate head coach, Ned Spieker Men's Water Polo Head Coach Kirk Everist has announced.

Tyrrell was a volunteer assistant for the Golden Bears for two years before becoming a full-time assistant coach in 2016. He was promoted to associate head coach following the 2021 season before stepping down after the 2023 campaign to spend time with his young family.

"Coming back to the Golden Bears feels like coming home," said Tyrrell, who has helped Cal win six NCAA championships as a player and coach. "I'm so grateful to Coach Everist for the opportunity to return after these past two years, and I'm bringing a renewed sense of energy and focus. We've got an incredible group of young guys, who are unbelievably motivated. I can't ask for anything more, and now I'm looking forward to building something special and getting back to competing for championships."

Tyrrell was a two-time All-American as a men's water polo student-athlete at Cal and helped the Bears win back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007. He's responsible for one of the most memorable moments in program history when he scored a goal from 12 meters out as time expired to lift Cal to a 7-6 win over USC in the 2006 title game.

"I am very excited to welcome Jeff back to the program," Everist said. "He belongs here, and we are very fortunate to have him back."

Cal went 161-41 during Tyrrell's previous stint on the coaching staff. He helped the Bears win four NCAA titles, including three in a row from 2021-23. Tyrrell also has playing and coaching experience in the U.S. National Team program.

"I can't thank my wife and family enough for standing by me through all of this," Tyrrell said. "Coaching is such a unique profession, and it simply wouldn't be possible without her full support. Family is at the core of this program, and having mine be part of this journey makes it even more meaningful."
 
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