UC Santa Barbara women’s water polo player Camilla Mackay is representing her country of Australia at the World University Games in Chengdu, China.
The rising redshirt junior from Sydney was selected to Australia’s women’s water polo team for the competition, which features student-athletes from more than 100 countries.
“It has been an incredible privilege to play for Australia at this tournament and is an achievement I have always dreamed of,” Mackay told UCSB Athletics. “The tournament experience is unique with university students from across the world coming together in competition at the world-class level, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we progress throughout the competition.”
After three matches at this year’s Games, Mackay and the “UniRoos” have clinched a spot in the semifinals with a 2-1 record. In their opening victory, Mackay and the Australian defense held South Africa to their lowest score of the tournament for a 7-4 win.
Mackay is one of just two student-athletes on the UniRoos’ team studying outside of Australia.
UCSB Coach Serela Kay, who has coached USA Water Polo teams in international competitions, says it is an honor that Mackay has unquestionably earned.
“Millie is a defender that can match up with any center in the world due to her size, strength, and mindset,” Kay said. “I am proud of her improvement throughout her time as a Gaucho and it is no surprise Australia chose her to represent their country at the World University Games.”