The NCAA is pleased to announce the extension of its relationship with KAP7 International Inc. as its official water polo ball supplier through the 2028 season. This renewal ensures that NCAA water polo student-athletes will continue to compete in championships with the highest-quality game balls, reinforcing the NCAA's commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics.
Since 2011, KAP7 has been a trusted supplier of the NCAA, providing the KAP7 105 HydroGrip Championship Series (men's) and KAP7 104 HydroGrip Championship Series (women's) as the official water polo championship game balls. These balls are designed to meet the highest standards of competition, featuring superior grip, durability and precision to enhance gameplay.
David Clendenin, NCAA director of licensing, championships and alliances, expressed enthusiasm about the extended agreement.
"The NCAA is excited to continue our official supplier relationship with KAP7, a company that has consistently delivered high-quality equipment for our student-athletes," Clendenin said. "This extension ensures that the National Collegiate Men's and Women's Water Polo Championships will maintain the highest standards of competition and provide an optimal playing experience for teams and officials."
Under this official supplier relationship, KAP7 will continue supplying custom NCAA-branded game balls for the water polo championships. Additionally, KAP7 will support NCAA events with event participation and grassroots initiatives to further the growth of collegiate water polo.
"The NCAA relationship is a cornerstone of our contract portfolio at KAP7 and solidifies our position as the leader in the water polo market," said Bradley Schumacher, president and founder of KAP7. "We are committed to serving the water polo community at the highest level, and being chosen to continue our official supplier relationship with the NCAA reflects the quality of products KAP7 is producing. Most importantly, the support of student-athletes and coaches enables us to continue fostering the growth and development of water polo worldwide."
Wolf Wigo, co-founder of KAP7, said: "The student-athletes have spoken, and KAP7 is their overwhelming choice for a top-quality ball. I am very excited that, through this official supplier relationship, the student-athletes will be able to use the best ball available, and this will make for the highest-quality competition throughout the NCAA season."
The 2025 National Collegiate Men's Water Polo Championship will be Dec. 5-7 in Stanford, California. The 2026 National Collegiate Women's Water Polo Championship will be May 8-10 in San Diego.
The NCAA remains committed to fostering student-athlete success by partnering with industry leaders who share its dedication to excellence, integrity and innovation. This extended agreement with KAP7 underscores that commitment and ensures the continued growth of NCAA water polo.
