Perth to host Aussie Stingers vs Italy test matches

Australian Women’s Water Polo Team, the Aussie Stingers, will host Olympic silver medalists Italy over the Australia Day long weekend in Perth, including three test match series.

As part of a week long training camp, the Aussies will train with the Italians as well as contest three test events across Perth at Bicton and University of WA.

Aussie Stingers Captain, dual Olympian Rowie Webster, said the squad is excited to host the Italians on home turf.

“It is not often we get the privilege of playing in front of our Aussies fans and I believe it’s a great opportunity to draw some juniors towards the sport and showcase the teams skills with a fairly new head Coach on board,” said Webster.

“As the current Olympic silver medalists, Italy are an extremely tough team to play.  They are fast, smart and have some very experienced players in their team.  It will no doubt be a very competitive three game Series.

“The last time we faced the Italians at the 2017 World Championships we went into a penalty shoot out.  I think both sides will be using this training camp and test series to trial some new players and tactics,” she said.

The first major hit out for the squad, it will help the Aussies build towards the FINA Intercontinental Tournament that will kick off in New Zealand next month.

“Looking forward to the Intercontinental Tournament in New Zealand because it gives us the opportunity to go up against USA, Canada, China and the Kiwis as well as prepare the the tournaments coming up later in the year,” she said.

The three test match series will be held at Bicton and UWA pools and entry is FREE.

Test Matches

Test 1 – 7:00pm, Thursday 25 January, Bicton Pool
Test 2 – 7:00pm, Saturday 27 January, University of WA
Test 3 – 7:00pm, Sunday 28 January, Bicton Pool

Australian Women’s Water Polo Squad SQUAD

Abby Andrews  QLD
Zoe Arancini WA
Elle Armit QLD
Hannah Buckling NSW
Pascalle Casey NSW
Keesja Gofers NSW
Lilian Hedges WA
Sofia Chaves WA
Danielle Morrissey NSW
Gabi Palm QLD
Sophie Milliken QLD
Amy Ridge NSW
Rowie Webster VIC
Alice Williams QLD
Jessica Zimmerman WA