University of California, Merced

Alison Mantel joined UC Merced from Jacksonville, Fla., where she most recently coached the only age group team in Northeast Florida. She developed her passion for coaching while in her doctorate program at University of Central Florida, serving as an assistant coach at Lake Nona High School in Orlando and an assistant for age group players for Orlando United Water Polo Club.  

Mantel, an accomplished water polo player, was a 2X ACWPC Second Team All-American for University of Michigan (2007-11) and is currently ranked sixth in Michigan history with 210 career goals, sixth with 190 steals, and third having recorded 157 assists. The Bobcats assistant coach also earned numerous academic awards from the ACWPC and Big Ten Conference. Mantel followed with a professional water polo career for UPNA 9802 in Pamplona, Spain.

Mantel was able to play at the club level while pursuing her doctorate degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Central Florida. UCF made it to the National College Club Championship game.

Prior to University of Michigan, Mantel played at Gulliver Prep where she helped her high school team win four state Florida titles in a row (2004-07). 

Mantel coaches both women's and men's water polo at UC Merced.