A native of Spain, La Verne water polo's Alex Beltrol Navarro is enjoying his first month in the United States as he navigates through collegiate life in addition to bonding with his new teammates.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE UNITED STATES THUS FAR?
I really am amazed by how friendly everyone has been from the
moment I arrived. The hospitality of everyone from my
teammates to other La Verne students has been amazing to me and has
definitely made me feel welcomed here.
WHAT DO YOU MISS ABOUT YOUR HOME COUNTRY?
Of course I miss my family and my friends, but as I said earlier my teammates have really welcomed be into their group. I already feel like I've added another family. They are a lot of fun and I definitely feel like I've a set of brothers who care about me as a person.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PLAYING WATER POLO?
I've been playing since I was 11 years old. We really don't have collegiate programs in Spain, so its great to be able to play here. Back home we only have club teams and professional teams.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES WHEN AWAY FROM THE POOL?
I am an avid reader, so there are a few books that I enjoy. One of the television shows I like is Game Of Thrones. I also enjoy playing video games and love playing and watching soccer when I get a chance. I also like taking naps.
FAVORITE FOOD
Pasta is always something I love to eat. Back home, I enjoy paella (a Valenican rice dish). It is cooked with calamari ink to turn the rice into a black color. I also eat paella with seafood.
WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT WATER POLO
It's a tough sport but when played right it can be the ultimate
team game. Everyone needs to be there for you. I feel
like its a game where teamwork is very important in almost every
situation.
WHAT MOST STANDS OUT TO YOU ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE?
The small classes I love! In Spain, we are used to having up to 120 students in a single class. Here, many of the teachers already know me and seem to be more involved with my success in the courses. It's also great to be a resident in the new Vista La Verne Dorm.
IS THERE ANY PLACE YOU'RE LOOKING FORWARD TO VISIT?
Looking forward to seeing as much of California as I can. Growing up back home, I've heard so much about the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco and would like to visit the northern and southern part of the state. I'd also like to get an opportunity to visit Mexico.
