As the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships (AYWPC) approaches, the U18 Girls UQWPC Barras enter the tournament full of confidence under the guidance of former Ord Minnett Aussie Stingers Olympian Elle Armit.
Having coached the group throughout the season, Armit believes her side is peaking at the right time despite some challenges along the way.
“We’re feeling confident,” Armit said.
“We had a few interruptions in our regular season which caused us to lose some games and a place in the final, but we are stronger than ever heading into AYC.
The Barras boast a well-rounded squad, with Armit quick to highlight the collective strength of her team.
“All our players are the ones to watch,” she said.
However, senior players Sara Connors and Ellie Sefton have stood out across both the Brisbane Metro competition and the Australian Water Polo League (AWL), bringing valuable experience into the national tournament.
For the playing group, the opportunity to compete at AYWPC is one they are embracing with excitement, particularly for those in their final year of eligibility.
“Very excited to hopefully back up from the States and bring the same level of competitive performance,” one player said.
“With lots of top-age girls in their last year of AYC, we’re definitely very excited to have fun, give it everything and finish on a high.”
The team is also keeping a close eye on key rivals, with Sydney-based clubs and familiar Queensland opponents expected to provide strong competition.
“Teams we’re keeping an eye out for would be SNB Breakers and Sydney Uni, and of course our usual competition Polo Bears and Mermaids,” another player said.
While many teams will travel to Brisbane for the event, the Barras will enjoy the advantage of staying on home soil, with players making their own way to the venue, a factor that could help them stay settled and focused throughout the competition.
For Armit, coaching at AYWPC is a natural extension of her involvement with the team this season, as well as an opportunity to help guide the next generation.
“I’ve been coaching these girls all season, and I can’t wait to see what they can do on the national stage,” she said.
A two-time Olympian and silver medallist, Armit brings a wealth of experience to the role. While modest about her influence, she believes her journey with the Ord Minnett Aussie Stingers allows her to connect with the players in a meaningful way.
“I don’t know if I inspire them, but having been in their shoes before, I feel I bring an understanding that they relate to,” she said.
“I can also hopefully help with reaching their own aspirations.”
The players themselves are well aware of the experience guiding them.
“Our coach Elle Armit happens to be a two-time Olympian and silver medallist,” one player said.
“We’re in very experienced hands and hoping to make her proud.”
With confidence, experience and motivation on their side, the UQWPC Barras are shaping as a team to watch as they look to make their mark in Brisbane.
The 2026 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships will take place in Brisbane from 8-18 April 2026. Bringing together over 250 teams from across Australia and internationally, the event will be a true festival of water polo for teams in the 12&U, 14&U, 16&U and 18&U events. A select number of games will be livestreamed via KommunityTV across the two weeks. Click here for the livestream link.
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