Skip to content
Dan Albano. Sports HS Reporter.

// MORE INFORMATION: Staff Mug Shot taken August 26, 2010 : by KATE LUCAS, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER.

University girls water polo coach Jeff Colton, who had guided powerhouse Foothill the past few seasons, has accepted an assistant coaching position with the Arizona State women’s team, he said Wednesday night.

Colton told his University players the news after practice Wednesday and plans to depart for Arizona State on Dec. 28.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said of collegiate coaching. “It will be very enjoyable to work with that kind of athlete, someone who is very motivated and capable.”

Colton arrived at University in June and said he applied for the Arizona State post a couple weeks ago. Colton, also a teacher at University, said he also applied for an assistant coaching job with the Sun Devils and Coach Todd Clapper two years ago.

Arizona State reached the NCAA tournament last season, earning the No. 5 seed but falling to Cal in the first round. Colton said he is attracted by the Sun Devils’ quest to rise in the collegiate rankings.

Former El Dorado coach Dave Johnson will replace Colton on an interim basis at University, Colton said. Colton’s final victory with the Trojans came Tuesday against Garden Grove, his alma mater.

Please send water polo news to Dan Albano at dalbano@ocregister.com