Sam Abbott, a former professional baseball player, has transitioned to college water polo with the men’s team at Long Beach State. At 27 years old, Abbott reunites with his previous coach from the U.S. development program, Gavin Arroyo, as he embarks on this new athletic journey.
Abbott was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 2017 and spent four years in the minor leagues, along with experience playing internationally in Canada, Nicaragua, Australia, the Dominican Republic, and the United Arab Emirates. After being released from the White Sox in 2021, Abbott continued to pursue baseball overseas until he underwent back surgery, which prompted him to contemplate his future and a potential return to water polo.
Having played water polo in high school, where he led Curtis High School to two state championships, Abbott decided to re-enter the sport. He enrolled at Long Beach State in the spring just before a new NCAA eligibility rule took effect, which permits athletes five seasons of competition within five years, starting with full-time enrollment. Had he delayed enrollment until the fall, he would have become ineligible to compete.
As a member of the Long Beach State water polo team, the 6-foot-4 center defender has contributed six goals, three assists, 10 steals, and five blocks in the season thus far. The team has achieved a record of 16-8, including a close victory against UC Irvine. Arroyo praised Abbott’s maturity, noting that his age brings a different perspective and professionalism that benefits younger players on the team.
“There’s some long-term thinking just inherent in being older and not sweating the little stuff,” said Arroyo.
Abbott comes from an athletic background; his mother, Elena, was an Olympic swimmer, and his father, Jeff, has a baseball history and served in the Marines. Born in Kuwait City, Abbott’s family has shaped his commitment to sports from a young age.
Reflecting on his transition, Abbott described the experience of being a college freshman at his age as “different,” but valuable due to his extensive life and sport experiences. He views his role on the team as one of mentorship, hoping to guide younger teammates as they navigate college life and athletics.
“Everything kind of came full circle,” said Abbott, who is currently majoring in finance. “I was like, ‘Hey, this is maybe where I should be.’”
