About Liliana
Driven by the Water
The story behind the athlete — her passion, her journey, and what she brings to a college program.
My Story
Where It All Began
Liliana Badii fell in love with water polo at age 11, drawn to the sport's unique combination of athleticism, strategy, and teamwork. Growing up in Newport Beach, California, she quickly rose through the ranks of club water polo. First with Back Bay (Coaches Marc Hunt and Jesse Briggs), then with Vanguard (Coach Sasa Branisavljevic), and now back with Coach Marc Hunt at Corona Del Mar (CDM). Liliana earned a varsity letter in both Water Polo and Track & Field at Corona Del Mar High School as a Freshman.
What sets Liliana apart is her relentless work ethic and competitive drive. Whether it's early morning swim conditioning, film study, lifting weights, or extra shooting sessions, she approaches every aspect of the game with the same intensity she brings to the pool.
Out of the water, Liliana is a rising junior and honors student carrying a 4.33 GPA while taking multiple AP courses. She understands that being a student-athlete means excelling in both arenas — and she wouldn't have it any other way.
What Drives Me
Core Values
Competitive Drive
I compete to win — in the pool, in the classroom, and in everything I do.
Team First
Water polo is the ultimate team sport. My success is my team's success.
Continuous Growth
I'm always looking for ways to improve my game, my fitness, and my mind.
Academic Excellence
I take my studies as seriously as my sport. A 4.33 GPA is non-negotiable for me.
Personal Statement
What I'm Looking For
I'm looking for a college program that challenges me to be the best version of myself — both as an athlete and as a student. I want to be part of a team culture that values hard work, accountability, and genuine camaraderie. I'm drawn to programs with strong academic reputations where I can pursue my interest in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) while competing at the highest level. If you're building something special and you're looking for a player who will give everything she has every single day, I'd love to talk.
"I don't just want to play college water polo. I want to help build something great."
Get to Know Her
Beyond the Pool
Favorite drill
Eggbeater intervals
Pre-game ritual
Music + visualization
Favorite subject
AP Biology
Role model
Maggie Steffens
Dream school type
Strong academics + D1 water polo
Outside the pool
Hiking, cooking, reading
