"The addition of Matt to the men's water polo staff is a real boost for the program," Harper said. "It has given everyone on staff, and more importantly the players, a real shift in energy. I have no doubt that Usha will help improve our already successful program not only on the recruiting front, but also with the day-to-day challenges that come with trying to stay competitive in a sport with increased parity. I feel very fortunate to bring him back home to UCSD"

Ustaszweski has served as the head men's water polo coach at Southwestern College for the last four years, while also instructing Exercise Science classes. He was named the Pacific Coast Conference Coach of the Year in 2007 and 2009.

Prior to taking over the head water polo job, Ustaszewski spent time as the head men's and women's swimming and diving coach at Southwestern, while also serving as an assistant coach for both the men's and women's water polo teams.

Ustaszewski has also served as a substitute teacher for the San Diego Unified School District and coached the La Jolla Water Polo Club and Heartland Swim Association.

Ustaszewski is no stranger to the La Jolla campus, earning a Bachelor's degree in History from UCSD in 2004. He maintained a 3.2 GPA and was a captain for the fifth-ranked Triton water polo team. Ustaszewski earned his teaching credential in Social Studies from San Diego State in 2007 and is currently pursuing his Masters of Science in Physical Education at Azusa Pacific.

"I'm really excited about being a Triton again," Ustaszewski said. "Joining Coach Harper's staff is a huge honor and there is nothing that I would rather do than work with a coach as experienced as Denny. This group of young men will no doubt be exceptional to work with and I expect big things form them in the future. From the atmosphere of the games, to the environment and culture of the program, UC San Diego is where I want to be."

Utaszewski takes over for Brad Kreutzkamp, who was hired as the head coach of the UCSD women's program in September after 10 seasons as an assistant with the men.