Mason Pellens

For Mason Pellens, the journey to collegiate water polo required a non-traditional roadmap. As a homeschooled student, Mason didn’t have the typical high school sports structure or the daily visibility that comes with playing in a traditional varsity league. He knew that to achieve his dream of playing at the collegiate level, he needed a platform that could provide both tactical training and high-level exposure.

By anchoring his development in the 6-8 Academy, Mason was able to turn what could have been a disadvantage into a unique competitive edge, eventually securing his spot at Biola University.

6-8 was a major impact on my journey. As a homeschooler with no high school experience, there is no way I would be where I am now without 6-8 and God’s guidance. It provided the structure I needed to succeed.

Mason Pellens

Water Polo Intelligence

The defining characteristic of Mason’s time with 6-8 was the focus on “Water Polo Intelligence.” In the Academy, Mason wasn’t just training for speed; he was training for strategy. The 6-8 curriculum taught him to see the game through multiple tactical lenses, giving him an intellectual advantage over opponents who relied solely on raw athleticism. By learning to adjust in high-intensity situations, Mason developed the composure and IQ required to lead in the pool, regardless of the level of competition.

The 6-8 Showcases

The 6-8 Showcases acted as Mason’s “Varsity Season.” Despite only attending two showcases, the density of college coaches in attendance allowed him to get his name out to a wide range of programs effectively. The opportunity to play under coaches who could potentially be his future collegiate mentors was a game-changer, providing him with a “live audition” that most high school athletes never get.

Achieving The Dream

Now a sophomore at Biola University, Mason is a key part of the Eagles’ roster and a consistent contributor in the pool. He has also been recognized for his academic excellence as a member of the WWPA All-Academic Team. Reflecting on his unconventional path, Mason credits the Academy for his tactical readiness:

The difference between 6-8 Academy players and others is intelligence. The tactics for how they teach to see the game in so many different ways is an advantage not many people have the opportunity to train for. It prepared me to come out on top.