Record number of players join Northern Rivers water polo season

THE Northern Rivers water polo season has kicked off with record participation, with more players than ever taking to the pool.

Alstonville Junior Water Polo Club has around 120 juniors registered this year, ranging in age from 7 to 17. The club has also fielded two women’s and four men’s teams.

Club secretary Veronica Silver said it’s not too late to sign up and urged those interested not to be deterred by the sport’s reputation.

“People see it at the Olympics and think it is a difficult sport. But if you are a strong swimmer and enjoy team sports, it can be surprisingly fun,” Ms Silver said.

The success of Australia’s women’s water polo team at the Olympics has boosted local interest. Ten years ago, the local competition had just two women’s teams—this year, there are seven.

The Australian team’s visit to the Alstonville pool in 2021 to train left a lasting impact on the club.

“Everybody is pretty proud of the Australian Women’s team,” Ms Silver said.

The club welcomes players of all ages and abilities, mixing teams to help newcomers gain confidence. One of the club’s life members, in his 60s, still competes.

While the focus is on fun, the club also offers opportunities for elite competition. This year, a team made up of the club’s top players will compete, with several members having played in the National League.

About six junior players from the club are also striving for elite-level competition, travelling to Brisbane every weekend to compete.

“A lot of our junior players become QLD representative players. It’s just easier to get there than Sydney,” Ms Silver said.

The club plays in the Far North Coast Water Polo competition, with teams from Ballina, Lennox Head, Byron Bay, and Mullumbimby, competing in pools at Alstonville, Ballina, Mullumbimby, and Lismore.

The season runs until Easter, with a break over Christmas.

In addition to regular competition, under-12 teams will head to Coffs Harbour for the Banana Bowl in two weeks, and in December, players will compete at the QLD Country Titles on the Gold Coast.

Juniors play on Friday nights, while seniors take to the pool on Monday nights. Ms Silver encouraged locals to “get out of your comfort zone and come and try a new sport.”

For more information, visit www.fncwaterpolo.org.au.