Built in the Off-Season: How Delfina USA Athletes Stay Game Ready
Posted by Delfina USA powered by S&R Sport Affiliates on Nov 17th 2025
When the season ends and the final whistle blows, most water polo players face the same question: What now?
The offseason isn’t just downtime; it’s the foundation of next season’s success.
No one understood this better than Steve Granick, co-founder of Delfina USA x S&R Sport and former UCLA player who later transitioned into coaching. Steve often told his athletes:
“Everybody trains during their season. The difference between a good player and a great player is what they do in the offseason.”
That message still rings true today. The gap between good and great players is defined by discipline, consistency, and the work athletes put in when no one is watching. The offseason is where recovery meets growth, where weaknesses become strengths, and where the mindset for a winning season is built.
To dig deeper into what makes that time so impactful, we asked our Delfina USA Affiliates how they approach the offseason and what keeps them sharp. Their answers reveal a powerful combination of rest, mindset, and motivation, proof that champions are truly built long before game day.
Mindset and Balance Are Everything
“The biggest thing to focus on is mindset and training balance... having a good balance of having fun in your time off but continuing to train is vital.”
- Giancarlo Marquez, San Jose State Men’s Water Polo
Giancarlo hits the nail on the head. The off-season is the perfect time to recharge without losing momentum. Intentional rest, spending time with family or friends while still carving out time to move is key.
Pro Tip: Include mental training exercises like visualization, journaling, or goal-setting. Staying focused and adaptable now sets the tone for peak performance in the pool.
Recover, Reset, and Rebuild
“Off-season and breaks are really important and necessary for longevity… focus on recovery and a mental reset early on, while maintaining strength.”
- Paloma Szivos, Los Angeles Athletic Club, Ex-Pro Hungary
Paloma reminds us that recovery is a vital part of training. Let your body heal from the season’s wear and tear before ramping up again.
For athletes looking for extra guidance, @aquastrengthperformance offers online workouts that help maintain strength and accountability. And if pool time is limited, tools like a Delfina Heavyweight Training Ball or StretchCordz can help maintain strength and shoulder stability at home.
Consistency Through Accountability
“It’s important to prioritize maintaining your fitness… It is always helpful to have a training buddy to keep yourself motivated in the off-season!”
- Emma Linebeck, UCLA x Team USA
Accountability matters. Whether you’re training with a teammate or checking in with a friend, staying consistent makes all the difference. Programs like Aqua Strength Performance can also keep you on track with structured, water polo-specific exercises.
Systems That Support Success
“Establish routines and systems that work for you... meal prep, vitamin rotations, stretching routines, etc. The off-season is the best time to see what does and doesn’t work for you.”
- Maile Turner, UCLA
Use the off-season to experiment with habits that help you succeed. Consistency is key.
Mental Reset and Reflection
“The off-season and holiday breaks are such an important time. Recovery is key - giving your body a chance to rest, recharge, and heal. But it’s also important to stay in shape and maintain fitness so you don’t lose your foundation. Reflecting, resetting goals, and building a strong mindset can make a huge difference heading into the next season.”
- Anna Pearson, UCLA
Anna sums it up: the off-season is about balance. Recovery, reflection, and readiness all work together to set the tone for next season’s success.
Move Smart, Not Just Hard
“I try to keep a good balance where I’m giving my body rest but still training enough to feel ready… I also definitely work on a lot of recovery and mobility.”
- Quinn Healy, Stanford
Quinn emphasizes quality over quantity. Off-season training isn’t always about pushing limits; it’s about recovery, flexibility, and mobility. Yoga, dynamic stretching, and foam rolling can now prevent injuries and improve performance next season.
Keep Moving, Even a Little
“Take some time to let your body rest but still do a little bit each day to stay active.”
- Ellie Brush, USC
Small, consistent efforts matter. Even a short swim, light resistance exercises, or a walk helps maintain rhythm. Off-season fitness is about progression, not perfection.
Final Takeaway: Build Your Next Season Now
The off-season is more than a break, it’s a chance to rebuild, refocus, and reset. Whether you train with a friend, work out online with Aqua Strength Performance, or use a Delfina Heavyweight Training Ball or StretchCordz, every small effort adds up.
And while you’re preparing for the next season, don’t miss Delfina USA’s Holiday Sale! It’s the perfect time to stock up on water polo suits, caps, balls, and gear for yourself or the player in your life.
Champions aren’t made in the middle of the season; they’re built in the off-season.
