FRESNO, Calif. - Fresno State water polo head coach Natalie Benson announced the hiring of Cecilia Leonard to the coaching staff as assistant coach on Friday.
"I am very pleased to announce Cecilia Leonard as our new assistant coach at Fresno State," said Benson on her newest hire. "Cecilia brings diverse playing and coaching experience, as well as a passion for the sport that is unparalleled. I am excited to begin collaborating with her, and look forward to the magnetic energy she will bring to our program."
Leonard comes to Fresno State after a two -year stint on staff with the Barcelona International Water Polo Academy. She helped develop international and local athletes' technique and tactics according to the European methodology. She also served as a mentor for the Academy athletes, assisting with recruiting efforts and planning to aid in the search of a school or program that best suited the athlete's needs.
She got her coaching career started as a high school coach at Florida High School for five years before transitioning to the BIWPA in Spain.
"I am extremely grateful to be joining this amazing program," said Leonard. "The team culture that Coach Benson, her staff and student-athletes have cultivated over the years is reflected in the program's young but rich history. Truly, there is nowhere else I would rather begin my collegiate coaching career. Go Bulldogs!"
As an athlete herself, she is a member of the Argentina National Team. She played with the team at the 2022 FINA Intercontenial Cup, 2022 FINA World Championships, 2023 PANAMS, 2023 World Aquatics World Championships and the 2023 PANAM Games.
Leonard has further experience outside of the pool, sharing her experiences through the Total Waterpolo Podcast as the platform's co-host. She has also worked with Kap7, handling social media and sales for the company.
She played collegiately at Iona College from 2008-12. Following her senior season, Leonard became Iona's all-time leading scorer. She was a two-time first team All-MAAC selection (2011, 2012). She was the 2010 MAAC Offensive Player of the Year and the 2009 MAAC Rookie of the Year as a freshman. Leonard is a native of Plantation, Florida.