Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – 2025/26 Junior Season
1. My child is new to water polo – can they still join?
Yes! We welcome new players at all age levels.
Even though teams are finalised, spots may open throughout the season, and we will do our best to accommodate new athletes where possible.
New players may also be able to train with a team until an appropriate spot becomes available.
2. What is the age eligibility for each team?
Age groups are determined by year of birth, not school grade.
3. What does my daughter need to bring to training and games?
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Swimmers (training and club race suit for games once purchased)
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Goggles for warm-up swimming
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Water polo ball
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Drink bottle
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Towel and warm clothes for after games
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Club polo shirt for game days
4. Do players need to attend every training and game?
Yes – regular attendance is essential for team consistency and development.
Players should attend all trainings and Sunday games.
If your child is sick, injured, or unavailable, please notify your coach or manager early so the team can plan accordingly.
5. What happens if we are away on holidays or miss a few weeks?
We understand families have commitments and occasional absences.
Please inform your team manager and coach as soon as you know the dates.
Players returning after extended absences may need a transition period to rebuild fitness and confidence.
6. What should we do if my daughter is injured or unwell?
Player safety is always the top priority.
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Inform the coach and manager of any injuries or health concerns
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Players should only return when medically cleared if the injury requires it
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Injured players are encouraged (not required) to attend games to support their team, help with bench duties, timing, warm-up roles, etc.
7. How were girls’ team selections made?
Selections were based on:
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Water polo fundamentals and game understanding
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Work rate and fitness
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Attitude and coachability
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Team balance and positional needs
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Long-term player development
Coaches assessed girls during trials, training sessions, and gameplay scenarios to place each athlete in the best environment for growth.
8. Teams have been announced – what if I didn’t receive any information?
If you submitted an EOI or trialled but haven’t received communication:
Email Coco at unswwests@gmail.com
We will ensure you are linked to the correct team.
9. When is the season?
The confirmed WPNSW dates are:
10. What are the weekly commitments?
Each team will have:
Training times and locations are communicated by each team’s manager.
11. Where do the girls train?
Girls primarily train at:
Some teams may occasionally train at other pools based on scheduling needs.
12. Where are games held?
Girls will play a mix of home and away games.
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Home pools: UNSW & Ashfield
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Away venues may include Ryde, Pymble, Auburn, Dawn Fraser, Sydney Uni, Sutherland, and others.
Matches are scheduled by WPNSW.
13. How much does the season cost?
Fees cover:
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Coaching
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Training and pool hire
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Competition entry fees
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Club administration
Please refer to the Fees section or email us for the most up-to-date pricing.
14. What uniform do players need?
All players must have:
Uniforms are ordered through Delfina after team selections.
Optional items (hoodies, shorts, caps) may also be available.
15. Can my daughter “play up” in an older age group?
Sometimes, yes.
Playing up is determined by:
Parents will always be consulted before any play-up arrangement is implemented.
16. How is communication handled?
Communication will be via:
Please ensure your contact details are correct for the season.
17. What is expected of players and parents?
UNSW Wests values a professional, supportive culture.
Expectations include:
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Respectful behaviour toward coaches, teammates, and officials
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Positive sideline conduct from parents
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No negative comments toward referees or opposition
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Following WPNSW and UNSW Wests Codes of Conduct
Concerns should be raised calmly with managers or the Junior Director at an appropriate time.
18. What development pathways exist for girls?
UNSW Wests provides a strong pathway for female athletes:
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Junior Development Programs (JDP)
- UNSW Wests metro team
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WPNSW State Development squads
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State representative teams
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Senior women’s programs and Australian Waterpolo League (AWL)
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National and high-performance pathways
Coaches will support players who show interest and potential.
19. Who do I contact for more information?
For junior girls program questions:
Coco Welsh – Director of Junior Women’s Water Polo
unswwests@gmail.com
