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More than 250 water polo enthusiasts from Guernsey, France and the UK are set to hit the Lido this weekend to celebrate a milestone half-century for Jersey's own club with an international tournament.
Jersey Water Polo Association's 50th anniversary event, which is sponsored by Pitcher & Le Quesne Funeral Directors, will be taking place on 20 July.
Its location at Havre des Pas carries a special significance for the Association, as water polo has been played at The Lido for over half a century.
There, JWPA will set up two pitches to accommodate eight men’s teams and eight women’s teams in a round-robin-style format over two days.
Matches are set to be played on both days from 10:00 onwards, with spectators and supporters encouraged to come along.
The following teams are set to participate
Men’s teams: Jersey, Portsmouth, Exeter, Granville, Les Pieux, Royal Navy, Solihull and Worthing
Women’s teams: Jersey, Portsmouth, City of Birmingham, English Roses, Exeter, Solihull, Tyldesley and Worthing
Reflecting on its history ahead of the celebrations, the organisation said it had faced challenges during the covid-19 pandemic, as swimming pool closures and social distancing measures made it increasingly difficult to train and compete.
In 2021, however, the association appointed new leadership to help drive the sport forward, with Max Treharne and Henry Job taking up the role of ‘co-presidents’ to re-invigorate the club.
With the support of senior sponsor 4Group and junior sponsor Valla Limited, the JWPA said they have now been able to increase their membership from 30 to 125-plus islanders in fewer than two years – but they're always on the hunt for more.
The association now offers regular sessions for various age groups and skill levels at Aquasplash and Havre des Pas bathing pool.
The first session is free, and interested islanders can get in touch via email at jerseypolo@gmail.com.
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