U14 Boys Div 2 Tournament Wrap-Up

U14 Boys Div 2 Tournament Wrap-Up.

The 3 Boys, Ryan, Blake and Jett all played for Marlborough U14 boys. Having never played at this level before and coming into a structured team was a big step for the boys, but the calming influence of Marlborough coach Pat and his positive Waterpolo attitude was great for them.

Our pool was the "Pool of Death" with the eventual finalists BOTH coming from our pool! We had 3 losses from 3 games in pool play but 1 was a very close game with eventual 2nd place getters NHWP and we had a respectable score against winners Mountford Park, putting 4 past them. After this, in the cross pool games, the team didn't lose with 2 big wins a close win and a draw for a final place of 13th.

All 3 Otago boys performed well, with Ryan at centre forward on the scoresheet in most of the games, Blake discovered a new confidence and became a staunch defender and Jett also rose throughout the competition to display his skills with confidence in the last few games. Working in a team environment with set roles was a big step for the boys, but we worked hard and after each game worked out our work ons, set our own goals for the next game and each time they stepped up. By the end each knew their role and were performing to a higher level with confidence - good job boys, you did OWP proud.

The officials said to us that the level of skill this year was very impressive, ( as was the size of some of these boys!!!!) and having faced the 2 top teams in pool play, (with closer results that some of their other games), meant we had faced the best while doing our best. We even managed time to go to one of the girls games and provide some vocal support.

Something to be proud of boys, and many thanks to Marlborough Water Polo Club and their set up for welcoming us.

- Summary by Ross Bain (thank you Ross)