IRVINE, Calif. - Concordia University Irvine junior men's water polo driver Marius Jakimcikas picked up to start this season right where he left the last one...scoring goals.

The Newport Rib Company Eagle of the Week has scored a team-high 26 goals in nine matches to open up the season.  His season-highs of five and six goals respectively have contributed to both of the Eagles wins this season. In fact, no goal was more dramatic than his game winner as time expired to beat Chapman. 

When asked about his strong start to the season, Jakimcikas was quick to acknowledge that he is not alone in his success.

"We trained really hard over the summer and it definitely paid off," said Jakimcikas.  "My teammates, the coaching staff they trust me to take the shots, and just knowing that they got my back allows me to be more aggressive and play my game."

His play is starting to catch the eye of opposing teams as they are clearly game planning to take him out of games.  

Head coach Dreason Barry is pleased with Jakimcikas's play to start the year and expects it to improve as the season progresses.  

"Marius has blossomed and his offensive all-around skills have become very difficult for teams to contain," said Barry.  "With the work he has put into the last year he has come a long way compared to last season. As teams scout, he will be the guy on our team to stop and this will open up opportunities for his teammates."

A native of Vilinius, Lithuania, Jakimcikas grew up playing water polo, lettering in the sport all four years of high school.  When asked why he chose Concordia to continue his playing career, Jakimcikas said a couple of factors played into that decision. 

"Concordia is a great school. I am really happy and thankful for a chance to be here and represent CUI. I always wanted to go to a school where I could get a good education as well as compete on a high level in water polo. Concordia offers both and that's why I am here."

When he is not in the pool, he enjoys playing basketball and soccer.  However, his favorite activity outside of the water ironically still involves the water.   

"My favorite thing about living in the states is definitely the beach," said Jakimcikas.  "I absolutely love it, going to the beach with my friends is the best. It's so much fun and so relaxing."

His career goal in life is to own his own company.  As a mathematics major, Jakimcikas understands how to balance athletics and academics.   

Jakimcikas will be back in the pool with his fellow Eagles on Friday, September 20 at 1:30 p.m. as they take on UC Irvine at William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center.

For a complete men's water polo schedule please click here.