Tamás Kásás

Tamás Kásás (born July 20, 1976 in Budapest) is a Hungarian water polo player, with a height of 200cm and a weight of 90 kg.

Kásás is often described as the best defensive player of his era, if not the best overall. He is known for his ability to spring out of the water and block shots, as well as his strength in one-on-one situations. He is also noted for his highly accurate shots and passes.

He picked up the sport at the age of six, being taught by his father Zoltán, who is a renowned coach in Hungary. Zoltán Kásás was also a gifted player who won an Olympic silver medal in 1972, a World Championship in 1973, and a European title in 1974.

He made his Olympic debut in 1996, where Hungary reached the semifinals before losing to the Manuel Estiarte led Spanish squad. However, the Hungarian team bounced back to win European Championships in 1997 and 1999, as well as a Champions League cup in 1998, culminating with Olympic golds at Sydney in 2000, Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008.

In 2007 Kásás won Euro League with Pro Recco. He was named "Most Valuable Player" at the 2002 FINA Men's Water Polo World Cup, where Hungary claimed the silver medal.

Performances

*Olympic Games : Gold Medal (2008, 2004, 2000)
*World Championships : Gold Medal (2003), Silver Medal (1998)
*European Championships : Gold Medal (1999, 1997)
*World League : Gold Medal (2004, 2003), Bronze (2002)
*FINA Cup : Gold Medal (1999, 1996)
* Euro League : (2007)
*Italian Championships : (2007, 2005, 2001, 2000)

= References =
* [http://www.prorecco.it/sq_kasas.php Profile]