Wassersport Australien

Macquarie University’s Sport and Aquatic Centre

Students splash into the social sport of water polo
by Samantha Abbott

Every Wednesday at Macquarie University’s Sport and Aquatic Centre, students meet to play in a social competition of water polo.

“Water polo is basically a contact sport with a few exceptions,” says Cassie Collin, member of the water polo team at Macquarie. “You cannot swim over the top of anyone or push them under water or elbow them. However you can rest on their shoulders, push against them, hold them back and hit the ball out of their hands. Also, a lot of contact goes on under water sometimes that people can’t see!”

There are four girls’ teams of approximately 13 members per team along with one boy’s team, plus the social competition on Wednesday nights. During the match, only seven members, including the goalie, play at any one time. Six members stay on the sidelines and wait to be subbed in.

Cassie has been participating in Macquarie University Water Polo Club for over two years. “I joined in my first year at Macquarie and it’s definitely the best thing I could have done! My team is now training for winter competition, which starts this Sunday (17 May).”

A variety of students show up to play water polo and no experience is required. “We have some exchange students in the girls and boys teams. There are a couple of Canadians playing for us this season and other international students who come to play on Wednesdays. We are always welcome for more students to join!”

Though try outs for winter competition are over, Wednesdays are always open to play social water polo. “Macquarie University Water Polo Club is very social; we organise team and club dinners along with nights out for everyone to participate in. It is always a good time!” says Cassie.