SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Santa Clara University men's water polo redshirt freshman Luke Baird was named the KAP7 West Coast Conference Newcomer of the Week Tuesday after helping lead the No. 17 Broncos to a perfect weekend at the Lancer Joust.
 
Baird totaled seven goals, four steals, three field blocks and an assist with two multi-goal performances in three games. Baird tied for the game high Friday with a season-best four goals in the tournament opener versus host Cal State Fullerton. He came back in Friday's nightcap with two more goals against Concordia University Irvine for a six-goal day Friday. Baird added another goal Saturday in the Broncos' 14-8 win over Biola, one of 10 Broncos to score in the game.
 
Baird is the second Bronco in 2024 to earn WCC Newcomer of the Week honors, and earns the program's third such award already this season. Riccardo De Simon has been bestowed the honor twice, on Sept. 17 and Oct. 1.
 
Baird and the Broncos return home to host three-time defending national champion and No. 8-ranked California (9-7) at 5 p.m. Thursday. Fans can purchase tickets and find all live coverage links on SantaClaraBroncos.com.