
The 2024 Perth Water Polo League wrapped up over the weekend at Bicton Pool and it was Melville Water Polo Club that came away with the flag in both the Men’s and Women’s competition.
The Melville Marlins defeated the UWA Diamonds (10-6) to claim the Women’s Perth WPL Premiership before the Melville Sharks took to the pool to triumph over the Melville Saints (10-4) to take out the Men’s title.
Melvillle WPC President Rob Neesham says that the club is very proud of what the Marlins, Sharks and Saints were able to achieve, not just over the weekend, but over the course of the season.
“(These successes) are very important to us,” said Neesham.
“We have a long history of winning A grade competitions, they are very hard to win.
“So we are very pleased”.
Ord Minnett Aussie Stingers Captain Zoe Arancini was back in Melville colours as she led the Marlins to victory over UWA, with a performance that saw her named the games MVP and awarded with the Andrew Meloncelli Medal.
Fellow clubmen Flynn Mais was named the MVP in the Men’s final and was awarded the Tom Hoad Medal for his efforts.
Siblings Emma Putt and Tim Putt from Triton WPC were named the seasons Best and Fairest, alongside Melville Sharks player Harry Bruce.
Triton WPC President Glenn Townsend says that Emma and Tim should be very pleased with what they have achieved.
“It is absolutely fantastic for the club and the players and I guess, more specifically, for the family as well,” said Townsend.
Whilst UWA Diamonds fell short against the Melville Marlins on Sunday, Diamonds coach Ray Mayers said the players should all be very proud of what they have been able to achieve over the finals series.
“It was very pleasing to see the team make the Grand Final because in getting there, they had a very convincing Semi-Final victory,”said Mayers.
“It was a good season, hopefully the league continues to get bigger and better with a few more teams as well.”
Water Polo WA Acting CEO Lorraine Donachie offered her congratulations to the champions, and thanks to all clubs for making the Perth Water Polo League season a success.
“The newly branded Perth Water Polo League competition launched successfully, attracting more spectators in person and online via our streaming service,” Donachie said.
“The increased engagement has brought a buzz back to A Grade water polo, alongside weekly fixtures against the magnificent backdrop of the river views from Bicton Baths Pool. Feedback from the community has been primarily positive, with a few tweaks identified to enhance the experience for next season.
“Overall, we are excited about the future of PWL and its ability to attract, retain, and showcase WA talent, contribute to strong growth, and enable a renewed interest in our fantastic sport,” she said.
DEC
2024