Prep learners have fun in the pool
SANDTON – St Stithians Water Polo Invitational turns out successful with junior swimmers introduced to new methods of the game.
The junior section of the Saints Water Polo Invitational 2019 hosted by St Stithians College delivered an incredible couple of days of poolside action from 18 to 20 October.
Over and above some awesome water polo played, participating schools displayed great sportsmanship and camaraderie. This year’s edition saw 32 teams take part, with 16 boys and 16 girls teams. A total of 104 games were played across the three tournament days.
The tournament format applied was for ‘full playing time’ games, allowing maximum game-time for players to enjoy and develop. Swimmers were also subjected to the new Fina rules.
The showpiece also allowed for the development of younger referees who were paired with seasoned experienced referees in some of the group round-robin games, and the lower progression and final placing games.
The boys’ event was won by St David’s Marist Inanda in a hard-fought battle against St Stithians Boys’ Preparatory team. The girls’ event was won by Reddam House Constantia with silver going to Gauteng’s Roedean School.
Speaking to the Sandton Chronicle, tournament director Bruno Fernandes said, “The future of the development in water polo is all about the younger players. You need keen players, keen parents, and keen coaches. Winning at this level remains secondary with the actual playing of the sport being the most important component.”
Related articles:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/212604/saints-celebrates-25th-water-polo-invitational/
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/188942/saints-to-host-prestigious-water-polo-invitational/
