Competing at the U16 National Water Polo Championships was a huge moment for our team. We had trained hard, felt ready for the challenge, and were excited to represent South Australia at such a high level. The competition brought together strong teams from across the country, and we went in with the mindset to give it everything we had.
Each game was intense, but we stayed calm, collected, and focused on working together. Team meetings and pre-game preparation helped us stay connected, and we supported each other through wins and losses. Off the field, we shared laughs in the hotel, enjoyed going out for dinner, and made the most of the week together.
Our matches were memorable:
- We started with a strong 14–4 win against Nordek.
- Then came a tight 9–8 win against Tasmania.
- A 9–2 loss to the Hunter Hurricanes gave us lots to reflect on.
- We bounced back with a 12–4 win against Melville Saints.
- Then a big 20–5 win against New Wave Kahuna.
- The semi-final was a tense match against New Wave Tsunami, which we won 8–7.
- The grand final saw us face the Hunter Hurricanes again. After a 7–7 draw, we unfortunately lost in the penalty shootout, 11–9.
Although we missed out on gold, playing in a national final was an incredible honour. Everyone gave their all, and the team prepared well – resting properly, eating high-protein meals, staying hydrated, and warming up thoroughly. The final result was heartbreaking at first, but later we realised what we had actually achieved: SA had not been in a national gold medal match or won a medal for over 11 years. Bringing home silver made us feel proud, and we know we made our state and school proud too.
We would like to acknowledge every member of the team for their contribution, with special mention of the SPSC representatives:
Leo Dreosti – fast and accurate, strong in defence and almost always scoring when he shot.
Joshua Maung – a top scorer with 24 goals, finishing third overall despite missing two games.
Ethan Jaldiani – a strong centre forward who took on the biggest players and created space for others.
Harvey Bryant – reliable in defence, with great communication and effort at centre back.
Nicholas Cleanthous – sharp in defence, often shutting down opposition attacks with smart drives.
It was a week none of us will forget – full of hard work, pride, and team spirit.
Ethan Jaldiani
Year 10 Student
U14 Water Polo Nationals
During the holidays, I was selected to travel to Perth with Water Polo South Australia for the Australian Youth Championships. This was my first time travelling for water polo, and it was an unforgettable and exciting experience. My team placed 4th in the U14 green division, but a standout moment for me was when my coach read out the starting line-up and I heard my name.
I also realised how lucky we are to have such great coaches and facilities in the St Peter’s College water polo program that help players strive for success.”
Hugo Yates
Year 8 Student
