The University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's water polo team defeated the Ottawa Gee-Gees 19-6, claiming the OUA championship for a seventh consecutive season in Ottawa on Sunday (Nov. 26) night.

A dominant program in the province, the victory marked the 36^th OUA championship in program history.

"Our aim was to further enhance the record we set last year, solidifying ourselves once again as the most successful OUA team in championship history by winning the seventh consecutive, unbeaten championship," said Varsity Blues men's water polo head coach Tuna Tali. "Achieving this required maintaining our hunger, motivation, and unwavering dedication to hard work – a commitment we upheld throughout the year, culminating in a successful season."

Third-year power forward Diego Gonzalez Delgado was named OUA Most Valuable Player after delivering five goals across two games at the championship weekend. Blues second-year goalie Miguel Garcia Alonso was also recognized as the OUA Most Valuable Goalie for a second straight season, while head coach Tuna Tali was named the OUA Coach of the Year.

In the pool, Toronto's offence was led in the championship final by third-year attack Timmy Pourkazemi who tallied a game-high five goals. Third-year power forward Cameron Hexter added another four goals for the Blues, while championship MVP Diego Gonzalez Delgado secured a hat-trick. Both fourth-year attack Patrick Conn and first-year standout Omer Sayli registered two goals, while the trio of second-year centre defence Aidan Principe, first-year centre defence Ryder Cook, and fourth-year utility David Li rounded out the scoring with individual markers.

"This marks a transitional period for us, with five players who have long been pillars of our team graduating. They have made their marks and will continue being a part of our team by joining our alumni," mentioned Tali. "Simultaneously, a new class joined us this year, ready to carry the banner forward and perpetuate our legacy in the years to come. They are prepared to lead alongside new recruits joining us the following fall, ensuring the ongoing success and legacy of our team.

The OUA banner marks the conclusion of the 2023 season for the Blues, who delivered on an undefeated season versus OUA opponents, outscoring their counterparts 212-42 throughout the entirety of the fall campaign.

"I want to express heartfelt gratitude to all our parents," added Tali. "Their unwavering support is invaluable to us. They traveled from all around the world to be with us this weekend and throughout our season, undoubtedly playing a significant role in our success. I take great pride in what we've accomplished – we've not just built a team; we've created a family."