A leap of faith into the water pays off
PARKTOWN – The Roedean School learner is currently the only learner selected as a non- travelling team reserve for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics Women’s Water Polo Team.
It is an exciting time for one Roedean School learner who has been selected as a non-travelling reserve for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics.
The 18-year-old learner, Zahraa Bodiat, has been selected for the SA Ladies Olympic Water Polo Team and is the only player in both the men’s and women’ squads who is still at school. She explained that if any of the players from the travelling team were unable to compete due to contracting Covid-19 or an injury, the non-travelling reserve would be called up to replace them.
Zahraa shared how hesitant she was to try water polo at first after an invitation by coach Anita Trninic. “I had never been exposed to water polo before but I decided to give it a try. I have been hooked on this amazing sport ever since. Mrs Trninic’s passion really made me and my teammates fall in love with the sport and I am so grateful,” she said.
The seasoned swimmer added that she had been working towards this goal for more than eight months.
“It has been inspiring, exciting and a privilege to compete with the senior ladies, the best water polo players in the country. It was challenging balancing my matric and academic commitments with the training and travelling during Covid-19, but it was all worthwhile.
“I must thank my national teammates, coaches and management who were incredibly supportive and nurturing of me as the youngest player.”
She added that her coaches, team, headmistress and teachers were always reassuring and encouraging her, and always willing to assist to help her balance her commitments.
“I am also so grateful for my mom who supported me throughout this experience, whether it was emotional or physical support, she was always there when I needed it. I would have never had the opportunity to be in the squad without all her encouragement and love as well as the support of my family.”
Zahraa said water polo had taught her incredible discipline and work ethic. “I would like to continue to play over the next few years for my university or club. The next Olympics is Paris 2024 and I would like to work towards that goal, as well as the U20 Junior and Youth Water Polo World Champs and possibly the Water Polo Commonwealth Games. I want to continue playing and growing myself as a player and person.”
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