Spalding Water Polo is heading into a new and exciting stage of the club’s development.
Assistant coach Mark Le Sage said the club could soon be in a position to field its first women’s team and is pushing to get more members of all ages and both sexes involved.
Current team members are keen to boost their ranks and Ellie Pettitt said: “I started playing water polo 18 years ago. It’s a brilliant sport for both endurance and strength training because there are so many elements to the game.
“It’s a unique sport too, so a great conversation starter.”
Another regular team member Paige Cheek added: “Water polo is a great sport to build your strength and stamina and is fantastic exercise for your whole body.
“I joined as a complete novice, knowing nothing about the sport and everyone was so helpful and supportive, welcoming me and my sister immediately.”
There is a real team spirit at the club, both in the water and at social events, according to Rachel Vidler who said: “Spalding Water Polo is one of the most welcoming clubs, and sports, I’ve played. Everyone is so supportive of developing the players and the sport. Being a complete new player was not an issue at all.”
Coach Tom Masters said a competent level of swimming is needed to play the sport: “You aren’t allowed to touch the floor or the side and a game lasts 32 minutes. Therefore we require players to be able to swim a minimum of eight lengths without stopping. The ball is thrown with one hand so you need to be able to catch and throw while treading-water.”
The club has a wide group of players, men, women and juniors of all abilities and meets every Tuesday at The Castle Sports Swimming Pool at 8pm. Contact the club via the Spalding Water Polo Facebook page for more information.
