Orange Lutheran High School is blessed to announce the hiring of Melissa Seidemann, one of the most accomplished athletes in women's water polo history, as the new Head Girls Water Polo Coach. Melissa's extraordinary career as both a player and coach reflects her competitive spirit, leadership, and heart for mentoring the next generation—all of which align beautifully with Orange Lutheran's mission to develop student-athletes who honor Christ through their gifts and talents.
A Northern California native, Seidemann starred at Stanford University, where she helped lead the Cardinal to the 2011 NCAA title and was honored with the 2013 Peter J. Cutino Award as the nation's top collegiate player. Internationally, she became a cornerstone of the USA Women's National Team, securing Olympic gold medals in 2012, 2016, and 2020—making her just the second female player in history to achieve three Olympic golds. Her career also includes multiple World Championship, World Cup, Pan American Games, and World League titles, as well as inductions into the Stanford Athletics, New York Athletic Club, and USA Water Polo Halls of Fame.
Seidemann's coaching journey began during her playing days, with experience at SOCAL Water Polo Club and UC Irvine. She now serves as an Assistant Coach for the USA Women's Youth National Team, where she continues to invest in young athletes.
"I am incredibly honored and excited to be named the Girls Water Polo Head Coach at Orange Lutheran High School," Seidemann said. "This program has a strong tradition of excellence, and I am eager to become a part of the community and build on that legacy. While our shared love for the game will unite us, my hope is to support each athlete in learning, growing, and reaching their full potential. I cannot wait to get started and see what we can accomplish together! Go Lancers!"
"We are humbled and excited to welcome Melissa to the Lancer family," said Director of Athletics Karen Kekipi. "Her championship pedigree, coaching experience, and commitment to faith make her the perfect leader to guide our Girls Water Polo program into its next chapter."
With Seidemann at the helm, Orange Lutheran Girls Water Polo enters an exciting new era. Her remarkable experience as both a world-class athlete and a dedicated coach, combined with her passion for shaping young women of faith and character, will inspire the next generation of Lancers. The program looks forward to building on its proud tradition and embracing the future under her leadership.
