May 30, 2008

Los Angeles, CA - Edgaras Asajavicius of Vilnius, Lithuania and member of the Lithuania National Men's Water Polo Team has signed a commitment to attend and play water polo for Loyola Marymount University starting in the fall of 2008. The 6-5, 200-pound lefty was considered by many in the water polo community as one of the top international players.

Choosing a degree from a four-year university over a professional career, Asajavicius has an extensive international playing resume, including time with the GATO/Water Polo Planet All-Star Team where he played with LMU Athlete of the Year Tibor Forai. The pair formed a potent offense for the All-Star Team.

"We are extremely excited to have Ed join a core of talented young players already on our roster," said Head Coach John Loughran. "He has a skill set that will make an immediate impact on our team. Ed's offensive skills command focus from our opponents."

In addition to his time with the All-Star Team, he played in summer leagues in Germany and Belorus, in the U.S. Premier League (Division 1) with the Northeast Zone Team, the Junior Olympics and the Commerce Invitational.

"He has played in as many international matches as some of the members of the US Senior National Team," said Loughran. "That kind of experience is invaluable in the college game."

Thanks to extensive playing time in Germany, United States and Belorus, a Russian coach, and French lessons in high school, Asajavicius has a 3.9 GPA and can speak four languages.

The Lions, who are the defending Western Water Polo Association Champions, will open the 2008 season at the UC San Diego Triton Invitational on Sept. 6 and 7 with their first home games coming against USC on Sept. 12 and Pepperdine Sept. 13.