Jessica Zissou
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- Title:
- Assistant Coach
Bio
Coach Jessica Zissou brings a wealth of experience and passion to the Diablo Valley College water polo program. A respected and long-time figure in the water polo community, Coach Jess has been coaching since the age of 16 and has dedicated her career to developing athletes at all levels.
Her coaching journey began with 680 Water Polo, where she led the 12U team to a Top 5 finish at the Junior Olympics. In 2018, she joined Diablo Water Polo, coaching athletes across multiple age groups—from 10U to 18U—and helped guide the 18U girls to a Top 10 national finish at the Junior Olympics. Her leadership, strategy, and player development expertise have made her a vital asset to every team she’s coached.
In addition to her club coaching, Coach Jess has been a key part of the Olympic Development Program (ODP) for over nine years, currently serving as the Head Coach for the Pacific Zone Development Girls Team. She is entering her eighth season on staff on the Women’s Development National Team—this time as an Assistant Coach after serving five years as Team Manager. Her impact at the zone level has helped shape the future of USA Water Polo by identifying and mentoring young talent.
Coach Jess also has extensive experience at the high school level. She began her scholastic coaching career with the JV team at San Ramon Valley High School before taking over the program at Monte Vista High School, where she coached and directed the team for four years from 2017-2020
Before transitioning into coaching, Coach Jess was a collegiate athlete at CSU Monterey Bay. She later attended Saint Mary’s College, where she earned both her teaching credential and a Master’s degree. She continues to stay active in the sport, playing with various masters teams and competing in tournaments such as Master’s Nationals.
Off the pool deck, Coach Jess is equally passionate about education. She currently teaches high school English and runs the AVID Program at Monte Vista High School. Whether in the classroom or on the deck, Coach Zissou is dedicated to helping young people grow through sport, academics, and mentorship.