Also know as Peter J. Cutino Sr.
Background[]
Pete Cutino, a legendary California coach and educator in swimming and water polo for more than 40 years, during his 26-year tenure as the head coach of the University of California-Berkeley Cutino won eight NCAA titles and compiled a 519-172-10 career record to rank among the all-time victory leaders in the history of water polo in the United States (also known as USA) 
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Award Cup Insights[]
"The ability to name the Cup after an icon in water polo like Coach Cutino is a way we can honor those who have provided so much to the sport. Pete Cutino is undeniably one of the greatest and we are excited to honor him by naming the inaugural event in the Masters Cup Series in his honor," states Dan Sharadin, Director of American Water Polo.
Cutino also served as a US National and Olympic Team Coach as well as a member of the FINA Technical Water Polo Committee and the chair of the Men's International Olympic Committee.
"Pete was an instrumental part of so many lives," according to University of California head men's water polo coach Kirk Everist. "Those of us lucky enough to have been able to call him "Coach" know that our lives where forever impacted by his presence, his teachings and his never ending pursuit to bring out the best in all of us. Remembering his legacy with Masters competition is a perfect tribute."
A member of six Hall of Fames, Cutino's legacy is also remembered by the San Francisco Olympic Club which in 1999 established the Peter J. Cutino Award, the Heisman Award equivalent presented to the top male and female collegiate water polo players each year.
In September of 2004, Peter J. Cutino Sr. passed away, a loss felt by all the athletes, coaches and fellow aquatic enthusiasts who came into contact with him over his years on deck.
"Pete made all of us love the sport of Water Polo and because of that many of his "boys" still love to play the game and the Peter J. Cutino Cup will be a fitting way to honor Pete's sizable impact on each and every one of us," adds Everist.