Australia Cup — Canberra Water Polo Academy

BACKGROUND

For over a decade, discussions have revolved around establishing a second-division Australian Water Polo League (AWL), yet there has been little to no movement on starting one. Many clubs have aspirations of fielding teams in the AWL, and this event serves as a crucial stepping stone toward that goal. Designed to complement the existing AWL, this event offers emerging clubs and regions the opportunity to engage in high-level tournament play under AWL-like conditions. Initial conversations with Water Polo Australia and the AWL advisory committee have been positive and they are supportive of the concept. Teams from New Zealand and Asia have also expressed an interest in attending the event.

TOURNAMENT AIM

The tournament seeks to establish a second-tier competition that complements the established AWL. By providing teams with high-level competitive opportunities at reduced financial and commitment thresholds compared to the AWL, it aims to broaden participation and accessibility. The tournament will be played across four days with teams competing in 7 to 9 games during the tournament rounds. The costs and resource commitments for participating clubs are significantly lower due to the tournament-style set up. The event will be played from Tuesday 21 to Friday 24 January, 2024, to avoid clashes with the AWL, ensuring participating clubs can maintain access to their primary and/or junior players.

TOURNAMENT DETAILS

Canberra, Australia
Tuesday, Jan 21st - Friday, Jan 24th, 2025
Australian Institute of Sport
AIS Aquatic Centre
26 Leverrier St, Bruce ACT 2617
Senior club, regional representative and targeted national teams are eligible for this event. Current AWL clubs may enter, but need to comply with eligibility criteria.
To be covered by attending teams. Accommodation can be booked at the AIS and Abode Hotel in Belconnen, which are within walking distance from the venues.
Team entry costs $3,900 + GST.

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TEAM ENTRIES

Canberra Krakens (ACT)

Men’s Team
Richmond Tigers (VIC)

Men’s & Women’s Teams
Mermaids (QLD)

Women’s Team
Sunshine Coast (QLD)

Men’s Teams
Singapore

Men’s & Women’s Teams
Sydney Uni Lions (NSW)

Women’s Team
New Zealand U20's

Men’s Team
CWPA Barbarians (ACT)

Women’s Team

OFFICIAL TOURNAMENT AMBASSADOR

We’re happy to announce that Alice Williams, Australian Stinger and Olympic Silver medallist, will be the official ambassador for the tournament.

Alice, who was the top goal scorer at the Paris Olympics, is passionate about this event and believes it will offer fantastic opportunities for young athletes aspiring to play in the AWL and beyond. She also joined us for the signing of the Fluidra contract in her hometown of Brisbane, showing her strong support for the event.