AYWPC wrap | Day 7

Brisbane turned on perfect conditions for the commencement of week two of the inaugural Australian Youth Water Polo Championships with over 3,000 participants in attendance.

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The 16&U Men's and Women's divisions took over Brisbane Aquatic Centre with games being played continuously during the day and evening across four fields of play.

The 16&U Women’s defending champions, UTS Balmain Tigers, got their campaign off to a solid start defeating Brisbane Girls 6-4.

Balmain player Nokia Thomas said it was the perfect start to the week.

“It was a strong win, the team has been working really hard on shooting and moving with the ball, and we really capitalised on that in this game.

Although Thomas is realistic of what lies ahead for her Tigers side.

“Our main rivals for the title are probably Sydney Uni, UNSW and Mermaids look strong too,” she said.

In the 16&U Men’s division, the Melville Sharks got off to a solid start defeating Adelaide Stealth 24-0.

With four goals to his name, top scorer for the match Harrison Grattidge was satisfied with the win.

"There’s a few things we can work on, but all in all the boys have settled in quite well and it was a great to start to our week," he said.

He went on to comment about the new concept of the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships.

“I reckon it’s a good idea, with all the age groups all here at the same time. It’s a bit easier for everyone and you definitely feel a lot more support with us all in one spot,” said Grattidge.

The 12&U Women’s competition kicked off at All Hallows’ while the 12&U Men’s got underway at Somerville.

The participants all had a smile on their face excited to be a part of the first event and competing alongside their older club mates.

Coming off two wins in the first day of play and playing since the age of eight, Polo Bears Ice’s Ali McCarthy said how much she enjoys playing the game.

“I love everything, I like defending and attacking but if I had to choose defending would be my favourite,” she said.

To make sure you see all the highlights from Brisbane, get social and follow us on @waterpoloAus and use #AYWPC.

GET INVOLVED IN AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST WATER POLO CELEBRATION

Attention ALL Clubs, join us at the second AYWPC Welcome Party for your chance to meet with all teams from across Australia and rub shoulders with Olympians. Don’t miss out on your tickets – click here. For directions and a map to Riverlife click here.

Our great friends at OVO will be live streaming all medal matches this Wednesday (12&U) and Thursday 916&U) on their FREE OVOPlay App – download it today!

Don’t forget to make the most of your time in Brisbane and you could WIN the ultimate Aussie supporters pack using #AYWPCBrisbane - click here to download your FREE guide to Brisbane.

Grab yourself a slice of AYWPC history and buy yourself something memorable. You can find the merchandise van out the front of the Brisbane Aquatic Centre. Check out their range online before you pop in - click here.