Bio

Robert Poynton joins the Golden West College men’s water polo coaching staff as the program’s goalkeeping coach. A former Rustler standout, Poynton competed at Golden West College from 2008-2009, helping lead the program to back-to-back 3C2A State Championships in 2008 and 2009. During his sophomore season, he earned All-American honors while establishing himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the state.

Following his time at Golden West, Poynton continued his collegiate career at California State University, Long Beach, where he competed as a Division I goalkeeper for the Beach. After graduating, he pursued a professional playing career overseas, competing in Hungary, Spain, and Brazil and gaining valuable international experience at some of the sport’s highest levels.

Poynton brings more than a decade of coaching experience to the Rustlers. He currently serves as the Director of Coaches and Player Development for Next Generation Aquatics, where he oversees athlete development and coaches goalkeepers ranging from youth athletes to collegiate prospects. Through private instruction, clinics, and mentorship, he has helped develop goalkeepers throughout Southern California and beyond.

As a former Rustler student-athlete and state champion, Poynton is excited to return to Golden West College and contribute to the continued tradition of excellence within one of California’s premier community college water polo programs. His passion for player development, combined with his collegiate, international, and coaching experience, provides a unique perspective for the next generation of Rustler goalkeepers.