Junior programs and Australian Sports Foundation join forces
Published Wed 04 Jul 2018
Water Polo Australia together with the Australia Sports Foundation is calling on Australians to throw their support behind junior water polo players, helping to ease the burden on athlete families and help support the next generation of water polo players.
Traditionally, athletes selected in Australian junior teams are required to self-fund their international trip with cost estimates up to $10,000 in some programs.
The Australian Men’s and Women’s Youth World Championship teams both have upcoming international competitions.
These competitions are a major benchmark event for the next generation of Aussie Sharks and Stingers players, providing an opportunity to gain valuable experience on the international stage for future Olympians.
Due to the financial outlay required from parents and families, it can prohibit some athletes from participating, meaning that in some cases the most talented athletes are unable to participate.
Water Polo Australia CEO Christian Renford says the hard work doesn’t stop once a player is selected for a junior Australian team.
“After selection, when athletes continue training their families also have the added stress of self-funding their trips to countries outside of Australia which can be difficult.
“The responsibility to fund the athlete’s participation in the program falls on to the families’ shoulders which is why Water Polo Australia is combining forces with the Australian Sports Foundation to seek donations from the Water Polo Community and general public to make it easier for families of all Australian Junior team representatives,” he said.
All Donations over $2 are tax deductible. To donate to any of the above teams please select the specific team you would like to donate to from the list below.