2025 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships - Week 1 Day 1 Wrap

Pools across Perth have roared to life as the first day of the 2025 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships (AYWPC) got underway. 

Over the next five days, 14&U and 18&U water polo teams from across the country will play more than 330 games at venues across Perth including  Perth HPC, Stirling Leisure Centre, Bicton Pool and UWA University. 

While all teams aim to win, overall, most competitors have come to the west for the unique experience the AYWPC provides. 

The 18&U Girls Hunter Hurricanes (Green) team had a dream start to their AYWPC campaign, claiming a 15-6 win over Tasmania. 

Hurricanes squad member Ella Murray is excited to be a part of a team that is not only at the top of their game, but one that is so close knit. 

“Because we come from different areas (around the Hunter region), this was the first time we've played together as a team since the New South Wales States,” said Murray. 

“So playing out there today, it was so good to get back with the girls, with a good team and just do what we love to do.

“It's so great coming over and getting to experience new things as well as experience a high level of water polo that we don't usually get.”

Another team who also experienced success on day one of the Championships was the 14&U Boys UWA Bears. 

Bears captain Deon Fernando is really enjoying the team camaraderie that the AYWPC fosters. 

“Well, it's a good experience. You know, all the boys coming together, playing different teams from all across the country

“In Western Australia we just play in our comp…so  it's good to have that experience of playing with other teams. 

“It's really good getting to room with the boys, you know those fun times we share together, going to the beach, hanging out…It's good”. 

One club that has particularly been enjoying the warmer weather that WA has turned on, is Tasmania Water Polo Association. 

14&U Girls  player Mia Styles said it was an awesome experience getting the opportunity to not only play in an outdoor pool, but face teams they have never had the opportunity to play. 

“In today’s game, we played a club that we've never seen or heard of before,” said Styles.

“It is really cool to experience different club cultures, meet new people and make new friendships.

“It definitely encourages us to step up our game.. you're stepping out of your comfort zone doing things you normally wouldn't do in a game, getting to experience different teams that play different styles that you're not used to.

“So you have to kind of change, not your style, but adapt.”

Ben Uderman is ecstatic to be returning to the AYWPC for the 18&U Boys Cronulla Sharks.  

Used to playing in the 16&U age group, Uderman is excited for the challenge. 

“It’s very scary… it's something very different, but obviously it's pretty exciting,” said Uderman. 

“To spend a week with the boys, makes you bond as a team and you know it's just fun to play water polo,” he said.

For all the results from day one and tomorrow’s draw, click here. 

Passport to Perth 

The Australian Youth Water Polo Championships is currently underway at pools across Perth / Boorloo, Western Australia.

Planning on joining us in Perth / Boorloo? Check out these awesome spots and make your week of water polo one to remember - click here.