The first week of the 2026 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships reached the halfway point today, as the competition progressed to the cross over and quarter finals stages.
14&U and 18&U teams have been battling it out in pools across Brisbane, with action being streamed on KommunityTV – watch the replays here.
For many of the teams, they’re not only enjoying the experience of the games, but also embracing the host city, Brisbane.
Melbourne Collegians/Ovens & Murray 14&U player Georgina Hayhurst said: “AYC I’ve found is really fun. It’s a good competition to practice your skills and get to know the game.”
“Our team has been doing really good. So far we’ve won every game and it’s been a really fun experience.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing how our team can develop and how we can all play with each other,” she said.
For the local Brisbane teams, the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships is a chance to play against teams from right across the country.
Mermaids 18&U player Lucy Stuart said: “This one has been really fun, especially playing at home. It’s pretty easy to get around and it’s just been so much fun. All these different venues we’re playing at, they are so good. It’s been incredible.”
“The team has been playing really well. It’s been an incredible team atmosphere.”
“I’m really looking forward to being with all the girls and just getting around each other as a team and getting around our club as well. Since it’s my last ever AYC, we’re really excited to go out there and finish it with a big bang,” she said.
While for the visiting teams – many of them it’s their first time playing at the event and visiting Brisbane.
South Australia’s 14&U Boys Jake Howell and JackNolan are embracing their first national event.
“This is my first AYC here in Brisbane, but I’ve watched many AYCs with my brother playing. It’s a very fun experience – you get to see what other clubs have been working on and meet many different people,” Howell said.
“It’s good to see all the other teams, and play against them. It’s good to see the competition, and it’s really hard against all these tough teams, especially the ones from NSW. But it’s been fun, and a good experience for us,” Nolan said.
For all the results from day three of the 2026 Australian Youth Water Polo Championships, click here.
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