P r e p   T a k e   O n   W a t e r   P o l o  

A group of Prep School pupils from Years 5 and 6, recently took part in the English Schools’ Swimming Association (ESSA) Cadets Water Polo tournament for the very first time. 

The Cadets competition is designed as an introductory event, aimed at giving young players their first experience of competitive water polo. With a strong focus on enjoyment and development, the format encourages pupils to learn the fundamental skills of the game while embracing the teamwork, sportsmanship and fast-paced, attacking nature of water polo. 

Hurst’s team — Jessica B, Isabella H, Orla G, Charlotte H, Yuchen C, Otto S, Rory A, Artie P, Ray R and Charlie P — entered the tournament having been introduced to the sport during PE swimming lessons in the Lent term. They also benefitted from a small number of additional weekend training sessions to prepare for the challenge ahead. Despite their limited experience, they faced well-established opposition in Trinity and Colfes Schools. 

The pupils rose impressively to the occasion, delivering a series of determined performances and holding their own against more experienced sides. Although the final record of one win and two losses only tells part of the story, the team demonstrated clear progress throughout the tournament and showed great resilience in each game.  

Team: Jessica B, Isabella H, Orla G, Charlotte H, Yuchen C, Otto S, Rory A, Artie P, Ray R and Charlie P.