AGUA Water Polo’s Sophie Purcell Commits to Princeton University
For AGUA Water Polo’s Sophie Purcell, water polo isn’t just a sport—it’s a family tradition. Sophie’s interest in Water Polo can be traced back to her grandfather who played in Hungary many years ago. For years, Sophie and her siblings have all suited up for AGUA Water Polo, carrying on the legacy in the pool at Asphalt Green.
From a young age, Sophie stood out—not just for her talent, but for her drive, her leadership, and her undeniable presence in the goal. With AGUA Water Polo, she has competed in some of the sport’s most competitive youth events, including the prestigious Junior Olympics. There, she anchored a newly formed team and played a key role in propelling them to a top-four finish—a feat that turned heads and earned her national recognition. Her consistency, composure, and elite shot-stopping ability cemented her position as one of the top-ranked goalies in the country.
Last month, Sophie announced she will be taking the next big leap in her already impressive career. After years of hard work and standout performances at Asphalt Green, she’s officially committed to Princeton University, one of the top Division I water polo programs in the country. In addition to her commitment to Princeton, she will represent Team Germany at the upcoming World University Games this summer—a major international competition and a proving ground for future Olympians. Competing on the global stage will not only sharpen her skills but further elevate her game ahead of her collegiate debut.
As Sophie prepares to turn the page and embark on this new chapter, she leaves behind a lasting legacy at AGUA Water Polo—one built on excellence, perseverance, and passion. Her impact on the program has been undeniable, raising the bar for athletes who will follow and helping put East Coast water polo on the national radar. Before she officially closed the chapter on her AGUA career, we had the chance to catch up with Sophie to reflect on her journey, her dreams, and what lies ahead.
What qualities do you need to be a top-level water polo goalie?
As a goalie, you’re in many ways the leader of the team. You lead on offense, you communicate with defenders about shot blocking, pressing, and positioning. It’s critical to communicate and encourage a supportive environment, even with players you might not know as well.
How has Asphalt Green supported your athletic journey?
Asphalt Green really helped start me on my path to Princeton by pushing me to work hard, take advantage of coaching opportunities here, and seek out ways to play at the national team level. Even early on in my career, when the program first started, we had a former world champion and an Olympic coach on staff. That gave me access to incredibly high-level coaching and encouraged me to join the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program. Asphalt Green has helped me showcase myself and represent the team on a larger scale.
What were the factors that influenced your decision to commit to Princeton?
One of the things that most gravitated me toward the Princeton water polo team was the chemistry of the group—how it was a very supportive and tight-knit environment. I really hope to be able to contribute to that, especially as the goalie, who is almost like the quarterback of the team.
What are your aspirations for the Princeton water polo team?
Within the sport of water polo, only three schools—Stanford, UCLA, and USC—have ever won NCAA Division I championships. I really hope to bring Princeton into that group and represent the East Coast more within the sphere of D1 water polo as a stronger team—and potentially even win NCAAs.
Is there an AGUA coach that has been a mentor for you?
Coach Matt, who founded the program. He has been supportive since I first started coming to AGUA Water polo. He taught me that greatness comes from hard work and doing all the little things, and he also helped me find opportunities through the national team and different collegiate showcases.
What excites you most about the future?
Outside of Princeton, this upcoming summer, I’m playing with Team Germany at the World University Games, which is essentially a prerequisite for the Olympics. I’m very excited to compete and hope to continue being part of that team and work toward the Olympic level.
Sophie’s journey from Asphalt Green to the collegiate and international stage is a testament to her dedication and the impact of AGUA Water Polo’s training environment. We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes at Princeton and beyond!
