The NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS) women’s water polo squad have regrouped for the first time in a long time to play a friendly game against New Zealand.

“Because of COVID we haven’t had a chance to play together,” NSWIS women’s water polo head coach Rebecca Rippon said.

“The New Zealand team is ranked in the top ten and is developing really fast. They will be our greatest challenge for Olympic qualification.”

The two teams played a friendly game at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on Friday morning. Among the teams were eight new NSWIS scholarship holders who have recently been inducted into the training program.

“This was a great opportunity for new players to get some international experience,” Rebecca said.

“The new girls are 16 and 17-years-old and this type of international practice really helps prepare them for world championships.”

Fresh faces recently inducted to the NSWIS program include Lily Dunn, Layla Smith, Zoe Thomas, Georgia Chapman, Ani Pamp, Samantha Hardingham, Samantha Henderson and Madi Powells. 

The New Zealand team are in Australia to participate in the national league competition.

“NSWIS are really supportive of what I do and in allowing me to organise these extra training games.”

NSWIS

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