UWA Torpedoes paid pre-season visit to Geraldton for clinics and exhibition matches

Geraldton hosted some of the State’s top water polo talent at the weekend, as the UWA Torpedoes paid a visit to play and run training clinics. The Torpedoes, based at the University of Western Australia, brought their A game, engaging with the local water polo community in an effort to strengthen ties and inspire the next generation of athletes. The club held a two day coaching clinic before playing an exhibition match, with the men’s side taking on the State Under-19 male squad. Tom Freeman, the steadfast UWA Torpedoes goalie, shared his enthusiasm about the team’s pre-season visit to Geraldton. “It’s been a great experience coming up to Geraldton for the Torpedoes,” he said. “It’s amazing to receive so much support and such a great turn out for our games up here.” The Torpedoes engaged with local juniors, hosting clinics for aspiring young athletes who have been training for the upcoming AYC tournament in Brisbane. “We have no doubt that we’ll see a few of them playing for the ‘Torps’ in the coming years” Freeman said. The Torpedoes’ leadership group, comprising of Peter Hughes, Frank Di Costa, and Andrei Kovalenko, is already working towards strengthening their relationship in Geraldton. Freeman hinted at the possibility of bringing a top Asian team to Geraldton next year, reflecting the Torpedoes’ commitment to fostering international connections within the water polo community. “We hope that the kids are motivated by being able to hear the stories of Olympians Andrew Ford and Jonas Crivella and stay in this great sport for many years to come,” he said. Julia Gourley, a member of the junior committee at Geraldton Water Polo, said hosting the Torpedoes was massive for the community. “This is a pivotal moment for Geraldton Water Polo and one that our community is here to support,” she said. A strong contingent of 50 juniors participated in the UWA Torpedoes’ training clinic, led by both the men’s and women’s teams. Isla Mulligan returned to Geraldton as a UWA Torpedo, adding a sentimental touch to the occasion and showcased a full circle of the water polo experience from local beginnings to elite competition. The weekend also saw the return of Demons player and local talent Lachy Toomath, who showcased his skills playing for the WA State Under-19 men’s team in the exhibition match against the Torpedoes.