Mainland Canoe Polo

Canoe polo alive and kick'n in Mainland schools

by Shelley O'Dwyer, MCPA Publicity Officer.
13 December 2004

Mainland encourages canoe polo at all levels from social players to those who seek elite competition. An important segment of this is canoe polo at the schools level. Canoe polo is a fun, safe, challenging team sport that has opportunities for those who are looking for a social sport as well as students who are wanting a committed sporting developmental pathway to national and international levels.

Christchurch

Christchurch operates a schools league at the QEII Aquatic Centre every Wednesday afternoon during school terms two and three. Dependant on the level of the teams participating, there are generally three grades that range from beginners to those who have played for several seasons. The schools grade includes all high school years (years 9 - 13). Boats are provided at the pool.

Currently there are about nine schools from Christchurch and surrounding districts participating in the Christchurch schools canoe polo competition. Among these schools are Rangiora High School, Kaiapoi High School, Burnside High School, St Andrew's College, Rangi Ruru Girls' School, Unlimited Potential, Middleton Grange School, Avonside Girls' High School and Shirley Boys' High School.

Nelson

Schools canoe polo is also underway in Nelson. Contact Karl Reece for further information.

Representing your region

School-age players (U18) are eligible for selection into representative Mainland teams for the annual Inter Regional Canoe Polo Championships. At the 2004 Inter Regional Champs players from Nelson and Christchurch were selected to participate in the Junior Boys, Junior Girls, Youth Men and Womens teams. The Junior Girls gained a third placing and the Junior Boys were successful in securing a 2nd placing against the other regions that comprise New Zealand Canoe Polo.

Want to find out more about Mainland Canoe Polo schools leagues?

Contact Jenni Gadd or Russell Henson.

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