A whopping 650 water polo players made the 24th annual Saints Water Polo Invitational not just one of the biggest splashes of the year, but one of the most high-profile ones too.
Coming from all over South Africa, and some from Zimbabwe, 50 school teams competed for glory at St Stithians College from 19–22 October.
The tournament is the first played in the water polo season, where schools are unable to include their matrics.
For this reason, the tournament is often referred to as the ‘stayers invitational’, as coaches have to select players who will also be available for games next year.
“It gives lots of leverage for next year. We know what we are working with and what to practise,” commented Crawford College Lonehill coach, Matthew Wilson.
For event committee member, Liske van Tubbergh a gathering of the country’s best Gauteng and coastal teams always offers a good show.
In the end, Reddam House Constantia won in the preparatory schools division, Pearson High School won the senior girls section and Rondebosch Boys’ High School was the senior boys’ winner.
On dry ground, food stalls were very popular, keeping everyone well-fed and content. The hospitality zone and players’ chill area also maintained a great atmosphere.
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