Matt Russell appeared in six games as a freshman and scored two goals, both of which came in a win against Penn State Behrend. Russel also had two two-assist games, adding helpers in two games against Gannon. Russell was one of seven Tigers named to the CWPA All-Academic team.

Russell started playing water polo as a Freshman at Phillips Exeter Academy. With a strong swimming background, he was a starter by his sophomore year and captain as a senior. As a junior he was named to the All-Tournament Team at the New England Championships, and then as a senior he was the MVP of the New England Championships as well as his high school team. He was also awarded 4th Team All-American his senior year.