Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Sharks Leagues Club 23/07/2016 Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Contents Presidents Report- 2015 / 16 ...... 3 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND PLANNING REPORT- 2015 / 16 ...... 5 REGISTRARS REPORT – 2015 / 16 ...... 7 Summer Metropolitan Report – 2015 / 16 ...... 9 Gunnamatta Water Polo – 2015 / 16 ...... 11 ACADEMY REPORT - 2015 / 16 ...... 14 Academy Team Reports - 2015 / 16 ...... 16 M14B SEASON REPORT ...... 16 M14A SEASON REPORT ...... 18 L14A2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT ...... 19 L14A1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT ...... 20 M16B2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT ...... 22 M16B1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT ...... 24 M16A SEASON REPORT ...... 26 L16B SEASON REPORT ...... 28 L16A2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT ...... 30 L16A1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT ...... 31 M18 SEASON REPORT ...... 32 L18 SEASON REPORT...... 33
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Presidents Report- 2015 / 16
The 2015 / 16 season was another great season for our club. This Season kicked off with the September School Holidays Water Polo Clinic held at Sutherland Pool. These camps provide good opportunity for kids to fine tune their skills with special guest Elite Coaches.
This was backed up in December with a second FINS UP International Training Camp with featured appearances from Serbian Federation Men's players, Partizan Head Coach Vladimir Vujasinović and Australian Olympians Holly Lincoln-Smith, Nicola Zagame and Bec Rippon. Players also got to watch a gold medal game of water polo on the big screen! A one of a kind experience!
Fundraiser organised by Jenny Liessmann was held on 6th November. The Comedy for A Clause was a fun night held at Surfies at Cronulla.
In order to see just how smart we all are the Trivia Night held at Miranda Public school on 28th February was an entertaining evening that settled scores and earned good finds for our club.
The season launched into the summer of 2015 with our trials and selection process. With the many new and strong players following the pathway from the juniors our selectors had a tough time making decisions. Once the teams were selected and the competition commenced then it was Game-On!
As our teams showed tremendous “Sharkies spirit” and gave their all to every game. Our Club has continued to perform incredibly well throughout our age groups and grades at Metropolitan, State and National championships.
Our Women’s National League Team competed in an exhibition match in Sydney Harbour at Circular Quay as a curtain raiser for the Australian National Men’s Team playing in a test match again Italy. What a great spectacle to watch!
In the National League our Women won a bronze medal. Our Men finished in 6th place just which was a great effort from them and one big step toward a podium position in the future.
We admire and congratulate our club members selected to represent in school, state and national water polo teams. The whole club is behind our Rep Players so go out show that Sharks spirit.
With the 2016 Olympic Games only weeks away the “Road to Rio” is paved for club members :
Nicola Zagame, Holly Young (nee Lincoln-Smith), Joe Kayes, National Women's Coach Greg McFadden. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
On behalf of our club I'd like to wish them the very best of luck in their pursuit of glory. In true Cronulla style let's give them a Fins Up for Gold In Rio!
Let me say that these Olympians all deserve a Gold Medal. Just for getting to an Olympic Games requires an immense level of dedication and commitment. Becoming an Olympian is a journey of passion for sport and a commitment. There is no doubt that we have aspiring Olympians training and playing within our ranks today and I look forward to seeing them all step onto the world stage at an Olympic Games sometime in the near future.
Many more of our members have in the past proudly represented at National, State and Regional levels and continue to do so to this day.
While we honour all our grass roots sports, it is wonderful to announce that with the assistance of Capital Bluestone a Development Application (DA) for the Sharks International Water Polo Academy (a Water Polo and PDHPE Centre of Excellence at Cronulla High School) is currently being finalized and will be released mid-August. With this DA our Club and our sport will be able to fully engage with our community. Then in association with our alliance partners we can work for the facilities so desperately needed. With a regional Centre of Excellence in our heartland our sport and our people can begin to satisfy existing program gaps; grow participation rates for boys and girls; ensure the suitable transfer of knowledge for our emerging elite; showcase our sport through major events and promote sports tourism. Many of the NSWIS Water Polo Program participants live in or around the Shire. This project needs some more support from our Federal, State and Local government. They have been good to us so far but we are now very close to our goal and need to get it over the line.
We need to be thinking about our future athletes now. Our commitment is to continue to contribute to our sport and to enrich community spirit and life. This announcement will likely coincide with the time when these athletes will be striving for Olympic GOLD!
Our club is run day-to-day by a small group of very energetic and dedicated volunteers. Our management team is growing year by year but needs more supporters to accept formal roles.
At the end of another wonderfully successful year we should all thank those who dedicate so much of their energy and time to make our sport great. Particularly let me thank the Executive Committee who does so much hard work.
Let's pull together and continue to make Cronulla Sharks the best club in Australia.
Fins Up!
John Zagame Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND PLANNING REPORT- 2015 / 16 The financial statements of Cronulla Water Polo Club Inc that appear in this report have been audited by the auditor duly appointed by the Club, Tom Iceton, OAM CA Chartered Accountant.
The Club has returned a deficit of ($12,505.02) for the year compared to a deficit of ($10,625.48) in the prior year. The main reason for the deficit this year is the continual net cost of running the National League teams that is not supported by fund raising activities during the year. Similar to last year the result highlights the importance of fundraising for the Club to allow the Club to remain in surplus each year.
Despite the current year deficit the Club remains in a positive net financial position with cash on hand at the end of the financial year of $35,340.57 (prior year $57,014.08).
Accounts Receivable representing monies owed to the Club was $8,223.00 at the end of the financial year (prior year $11,027.77). Current outstanding (less than 21 days) was $ NIL (prior year $1,505) with all unpaid invoices over 21 day old (prior year $9,522.77), most of which related to National League player monies owing. It is important that the Club receives payment from players on a timely basis to ensure we are funded to meet all the Club’s obligations.
Trade Creditors representing amounts owed by the Club was $18,553.68 at the end of the financial year (prior year $13,384.20). The majority of the balance represents $7,931.25 owing to Water Polo NSW and $5,498.00 owing to Cronulla Sutherland Leagues Club. The main invoices owing to WPNSW again this year represent referee charges for the 2015/16 Metro Summer Competition. These invoices were unpaid at year end as the Club has queried the charges. The invoices owing to Cronulla Sutherland Leagues Club relate to the Club presentation night. This amount has since been paid by the Club.
Other points to note in relation to the current year financials compared to the prior year:
1. The 2014/15 Sports Lunch generated a $9,677 net profit for the Club last year. No Sports Lunch was organised in the 2015/16 financial year.
2. The annual Blue Tie Ball was again not organised this year (or last year). This function has historically been a strong fund raiser for the Club (the 2013 Blue Tie Ball generated a $9,746 net profit for the Club). A strongly attended function can be an important fundraising activity for the Club.
3. The National League teams continue to require support from the broader Club community. While National League Income including specific National League sponsorship and fundraising totalled $42,995.40 (prior year $31,109), total National League expenses totalled $79,549.68 (prior year $49,329) generating a net deficit for National League of ($36,554.28) (prior year net deficit of ($18,220)).
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
The NL result reported is impacted by the majority of NL player fees this year being paid for their Grade M1/L1 team participation due to the short NL season in this Olympic year. Travel and accommodation costs were higher than prior years due to the extra trip to Melbourne for the NL finals series.
The NL fundraising and sponsorship of $10,745.46 this year related to funds raised at the Club Trivia Night and Comedy Night.
4. Due to a lack of additional fund raising this year there was no expenditure on capital or equipment purchases this year.
Unfortunately there was no financial support provided to the Club during the year from local businesses.
While the year has been a challenge in relation to sponsorship and fundraising it should be noted that during the past year the Committee has been in discussion with an interested party to provide a major sponsorship opportunity for the Club. This opportunity if successful will assist us with financial support over the coming four years with options to extend beyond.
Roger Rudkins
Director of Finance and Planning
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
REGISTRARS REPORT – 2015 / 16 What a year. The successes ranged from academy teams winning Metro, State and even National Titles to our National League girls winning the Bronze at the National League. The Club was also well represented in State, National and International Competitions.
As well as the competition success that the club enjoyed, it is a pleasure to see how the players are carrying themselves. An important part of our club is to display our skills but just as important is to do it in friendly, polite and harmonious manner.
The 2015 – 16 season saw the Club move to a new Registration system, Revolutionise which has simplified the registration process.
A summary of the season is as follows:
Summer 2015/2016
250 Members registered.
51% of members are returning from 2 previous seasons
50.8% are male, 49.2% female
95.2% have paid.
Of the 250 members, 211 in teams.
Team gender split is 52.1% male and 47.9% female
All members have been entered into Sporting Pulse by Danni Freeman.
Winter 2016.
202 Members registered.
63% of members are returning from 2 previous seasons
48% are male, 51.5% female and 0.5% are ‘other’
80.2% have paid.
Of the 202 members, 157 in teams.
Team gender split is 51% female and 49% male
All members have been entered into Sporting Pulse
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Overall the new process is quite simple and uncomplicated. A big thank you to Dani Freeman and Kaz Kerr for setting up this system up and guiding me through the processes. prepared by Stuart Taylor
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Summer Metropolitan Report – 2015 / 16 The summer 2015/16 season was filled with mixed results for our grade teams. With a mismatched draw preventing our senior players from mentoring and assisting our junior grade teams on a week to week basis, we struggled in the 1st and 2nd division teams to find coaches.
Once again our teams were bolstered by our fantastic group of up and coming juniors playing in age competitions and grade in both division 1 and division 2 teams.
Our 1st grade mens team provided the stellar performance of the season pushing their way into the final series and faced off against the Sydney Uni lions in the grand final. Having only been beaten by the lions by a point in both preliminary rounds, hopes were high for a big finish. The boys went down 9-4, but showed good determination, setting themselves up for a big season in national league.
Our 1st grade girls narrowly missed the grand final going down 7-5 to wests in the semi-final, relying for much of the season on a youthful team, without our Olympians.
1st division results
Men
1st Grade – runners up
2nd Grade – missed finals
3rd Grade – missed finals
Women
1st Grade – semi finalist
2nd Grade – runners up
3rd Grade – semi finalist
2nd division results
Men
4th Grade – runners up
5th Grade – semi finalist
Women
4th Grade – runners up
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Additionally, the club achieved fantastic result in the divisional club championships.
Mens
1st Division 4th place
2nd Division 1st place
Womens
1st Division 2nd place
2nd Division 2nd place
Overall a great result and a demonstration of the club’s depth, without forfeiting a single round during the competition and enabling our juniors to gain experience side by side with our senior players.
Gregory Williams (VP Metro Grade)
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Gunnamatta Water Polo – 2015 / 16
Well we did it again – we won the club championship trophy.
As we spread our teams & strengthen each year with new players playing alongside those that have played for many years, we have proven to increase our team strength across the age divisions.
The Club Championship is won not only on Gold medal wins, but how all of our teams are ranked across the ages. For example our 14’s age group this year had 4 x Gunna teams in top 4 positions playing off for medals. Fantastic result!
We wish to thank & congratulate all of our coaches & managers for bringing the teams together. Once again we have had to call on parents to coach who don’t know the game & we thank our experienced coaches for assisting these coaches through the year. Never be shy to put your hand up – this year one of our least experienced coaches got his team to winning a Gold Medal.
Training time slots & pool space continue to be a problem as our club grows & there is not much more we can do, than share our space as best we can & utilise Gunnamatta Bay, as the weather warms up.
We look forward to more information being provided very soon regarding the Sharks International Water Polo Academy (SIWPA) http://siwpa.com.au
This vision for a new pool to be built in Cronulla is becoming more real – stay tuned!
Gunnamatta competed in the following carnivals this year with some good results & most importantly all the kids had alot of fun.
Balmain Carnival @ Ashfield (changed due to bad weather) SSWPA Gala Day @ Sutherland Pool Waterpolooza Carnival @ Gungahlin Pool, Canberra
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
We also wish to thank the Gunnamatta & SSWPA members who continue to support the CSWP School Holiday Clinics. Each year we are able to provide some invaluable coaching by our dedicated senior players.
Our Winter teams & competition are not as popular, due to clashing with other sports, but would like to thank our younger troops that get involved with keeping these teams competing.
The SSWPA competition must be acknowledged, as we continue to produce some fine athletes who are now representing their region, schools, State & Country.
The hard work by the SSWPA Staff to run this great competition is fantastic, we are one of the very few areas to have such a great competition at our doorstep. I (Kaz), am proud to be on the board, along with fellow CSWP Life member, Valerie Bryant, as the SSWPA president & we strive to continue to improve the running of the local competition.
SSWPA would like to congratulate Nicola Zagame (a former player in our Saturday comp) on her selection for her 2nd Olympics & her quest for a Gold medal in Rio.
Gunnamatta kicked off our own Facebook site this season & we would like to thank Trina Johnson for her continued support with the running of this. Please “Like” our page as we continue to keep you updated with events & news.
Special mention to our 10 teams who received medals in 2016
U11s Gold: Gunnamatta Milk Sharks
Silver: Gunnamatta Reef Sharks
U12s Silver: Gunnamatta Pygmy Sharks
U13s Silver: Gunnamatta Tiger Sharks
Bronze: Gunnamatta Speartooth Sharks
U14s Gold: Gunnamatta Fossil Sharks
Silver: Gunnamatta Tawny Sharks
Bronze: Gunnamatta Blue Sharks
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
U15s Bronze: Gunnamatta Hammerhead Sharks
U18s Silver: Gunnamatta Night Sharks
Well done on making this a great club!!
To the age managers for their assistance throughout the season – Trina, Sonia, Rob, Sue, Jimmy, Darren, Julie, Sean, Dave & Karl. The club keeps running with people like you guys around – so, a big thanks for helping lighten the load.
Here’s to another successful season within the Grassroots of our club!!
Gunnamatta Water Polo Committee
Kaz Kerr, Dave McGrath, Rob Lancaster
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
ACADEMY REPORT - 2015 / 16
Wow! What a season.
Congratulations to all Cronulla Sharks Academy Teams on a very successful 2015 – 2016 season. It has been a very busy but rewarding season for all those involved.
The Cronulla Club entered 12 teams into the NSW Metro Water Polo Championships and 9 of those teams made it through to the semi-finals.
The Academy was successful in winning; 3 x Metro Gold Medals – M14A, M14B and L18 3 x Metro Silver Medals – L14A Blue, L16A Blue and M16B Blue
Congratulations to all those coaches, managers and players for their efforts throughout the season.
All Academy teams had the opportunity to enter into the NSW State Water Polo Championships. The Academy was successful in winning;
3 x State Gold Medals – M14A, M16A and L18 3 x State Bronze Medals – L14A and M18
National Championships saw Academy teams travel to Perth, Canberra and the Gold Coast. The Academy was successful in winning;
Silver Medal – L18 (undefeated throughout the round games) Bronze Medal – M14A
The U/16 Nationals are in October, Girls in Hobart and Boys in Brisbane, so we hope to add some more winning teams to the list.
For the first time the Academy entered two boys teams into the World Club Water Polo Challenge: • U16A team (Born 2000) - Coach Troy Stockwell and Manager Rodney Molla ………. Finished 4th • U18 team (Born 1999) - Coach Chris Batty and Manager Michael Milinkovic ……….. Finished 7th
Both teams performed extremely well and gained much from the experience. A special thank you to Michael Milinkovic and Rodney Molla for organizing the billeting for the B99 VK Partizan (13 boys)
This year the club achieved a record number of players being selected in NSW State Training Squads. There were 62 players selected over various squads.
The club also had 13 players selected in various Australian Training Squads. There are far too many to name, congratulations to all those selected. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
The academy is run day-to-day by a very small group of very energetic and dedicated volunteers. There are various positions available that would help lighten the load of those doing the work, if interested please feel free to contact me.
In summarising, the 2015/16 season has been a very successful season. The club truly appreciates all the commitment and hard work from its volunteers such as coaches, managers, players and parents which has been instrumental to the success.
Fins Up!
Yours truly
Ian Gatherer Academy Vice-President
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Academy Team Reports - 2015 / 16 M14B SEASON REPORT
Coach: Allan Ewings Manager: Sue Banister Right from the start our team gelled well. Most boys had played winter metro in various teams and came to the pool fit but not sure how we would go.
Their speed, unselfish passing, and solid defence resulted in easy wins early on.
With great teamwork our players passed the ball freely, usually finishing with the best shot at goal, a successful tactic right till the end of the season.
We went to State at Tamworth graded up to A's; a great opportunity the boys were keen to embrace. We came away from that tournament with just 2 wins but a bunch of new skills and an even tighter team. Two of our players were selected for the State Development Squad. Josh Pritchard our goal scoring machine with tentacles for arms and our top speed swimmer and Harry Reynolds our inspirational goalie with great leadership, communication and a super long pass - a great achievement for both boys. We are very proud of them and hope they go all the way! Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Our two other top age boys Dyson Griffiths and Christian Brischetto showed huge growth throughout the season as all our players did. Dyson's strong driving swims resulted in many goals - he could be counted on all season to finish the job. Christian's dynamic speed also frequently ended in goals nobody saw coming or a well-placed pass to set one up. We will miss these 4 boys next year and wish them all the best in the under 16s.
Our number 2 Bodhi Ewings was comfortable driving to centre forward with the strength to hold off players in this position - a formidable opponent. Finlay Lynch seemed be everywhere at all times. The number of goals he set up, often passing at the last minute in the classic switch, are too many to count - a true team player. Morgan Lekovic was the silent assassin, stealing the ball and applying pressure just when needed. His last few games of the season were his best- peaking at just the right time for the big matches. Byron O'Halloran proved his ability to read the play and position himself. His goals often came just when we needed them - a great player under pressure. Lewis McKenzie Hicks was an expert in stealing the ball and very quick to get away from the opposition - not the player you want marking you. Will Banister was most comfortable at centre back marking the biggest player, turning the ball over saving many goals at crucial moments. Last but not least, Jack Winchester slipped so many goals through the opposition it almost appeared they weren't watching. His speed to react and his ability to get the shot away produced great results all season.
We came into the semi-finals undefeated though we did have a couple of close calls in the second half of the season. The top teams were catching us and applying pressure.
Our Grand Final win against Wests 10-3 was a fantastic game to watch, we led the whole game playing very entertaining water polo. The boys really did step up as previously we'd had a close 7-5 win against this team.
The premiership result reflects the boy’s team work and dedication.
Thanks to Vedran for his Friday training sessions. A part of our success can be attributed to the improved skills and fitness our boys gained by attending!
See you next year. Go SHARKS! Fins Up.
Al & Sue
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
M14A SEASON REPORT
Katrina Mulcahy (Coach) Matt Prefrement (Manager) Tristan Glanznig, Josh Duncan, Liam Watson, Jay Novotny, Jay Jay Wolfe, Jay Gotvik-Dobson, Zarko Selak, Tahi Carpenter, Nic Prefrement, Nic Middleton, Connor Barclay, Raff Lancaster The team consisted of 12 bright stars ready to embrace an exciting future in the world of Water Polo.
These gutsy boys smashed out a season full of commitment towards their training sessions, team-mates and their own personal growth. Game after game, the boys continued to lift each other and strive to be the best version of themselves. Bringing a sense of optimism and energy to the pool and the results showed. These boys are to be congratulated for delivering high quality polo against strong competition.
Achieving Gold at Metro, Gold at State and Bronze at Nationals.
I was very proud to coach the future leaders of our wonderful Club.
Fins Up Sharkies!!
Katrina and Matt.
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
L14A2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT
Coach - Leanne Lucy Manager - Sandra Holden
Team - Ruby Johnson, Amber Carroll, Lana Bridges, Sophie Crawford, Jenna Holden, Kaitlyn Harrington, Rebel McFadden, Sammantha Henderson, Ellen Soffe, Lara Bona-Smith, Andi Dunstan, Milla Jimenez
Achievements - 7th Metro, 9th State, 13th Nationals
What a great season the Cronulla Black girls have had. Whilst we were the second named Cronulla team we played in the 'A' comp, as this was the level that suited our ability level. We had a successful year but playing in the A comp showed up our biggest initial weakness which was our swimming. Those that were not already swimming joined a squad and swam a few times per week. By the second half of the season and during nationals we were able to keep up with our rivals. The girls’ basic skills have improved immensely because they all worked hard and attended training sessions. The girls were a pleasure to coach and seeing how far they have come along was pleasing to see.
Thanks to Sandra for being my manager and getting all of the info out to parents, especially for doing the subs which can be very challenging at 14s due to team numbers. Thanks to all parents who got the girls to training consistently. Unfortunately we had the 5.00am time slot on Thursday mornings. This was a struggle for some but I’m sure the birthday cupcakes were an incentive.
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Thanks to Sandra, Pooky, Greg McFadden, and Clare for all of your help at training sessions. You all contributed to the development of this team. Thanks to Mark Holden for helping with training of Andi our eventual goalie. Mark gave Andi many training tips and gave her the confidence to play goalie for all of our games at Nationals.
Thanks also to Bella Johnston who played 4 games during the season so that we could comply with Water Polo NSW rules and play a minimum of 11 players but no more than 12.
Congratulations to Sophie Crawford and Ruby Johnson on being selected in the state development squad.
Most Valuable Player - Sophie Crawford who always listened, always tried hard at training, always remembered what we talked about in team talks and was able to carry them out in the game.
Most Improved - Andi Dunstan who was never reluctant to play goalie during the comp when it was done on a shared basis throughout the season. Andi improved with every game she played at State and with some specific goalie training improved immensely to be a key player at Nationals.
Leanne and Sandra
L14A1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT
Coach Jackie Fraser and Julie Vinson Manager Cas Colquhoun
The girls blended quickly as a team and had a fantastic season. They all enjoyed their polo and are learning the skills in order to play for a lifetime. We had some great results throughout the season. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
State Tamworth – 3rd Place Bronze
Sydney Metro Comp – 2nd Place Silver
Nationals Albury – 4th Place (lost Bronze Medal game in penalty shootout)
As a result of our performances and our ability to play as a team several girls have achieved representative honours.
NSW U14 Blues- Lucy Hull
NSW U14 Waratahs- Jade Vinson Sophie Earle Karla Poot Ali Scott
NSW CHS U15 – Molly Colquhoun Tenisha Cook Olivia Fraser Congratulations on a great season girls. Thanks to Cas Colquhoun for another great year as manager.
Julie Vinson and Jacki Northam
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
M16B2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT Coach Ian Colaco Manager Sean Parmenter
TEAM: Brad Bassingthwaighte, Byron Wilkinson, Eoghan Wright, Finn Lancaster, Isaak Colaco, Jack Wilson, Jarrod Parmenter, Jesse Colaco, Lockyer Barnes, Tom Mortel
2015/16 ACHIEVEMENTS:
3RD Place 16B Metropolitan Championships
10th place State Championships B Division
SEASON IN REVIEW:
A new team comprising a good mix of seasoned players and rookies to Metro water polo packed full of potential. The boys put in a lot of hard work in the preseason and really bonded quite strongly in the lead up to the season opener.
We won our first three games of the season and everyone was riding high on the momentum winning brings. A team bonding session at Surfies saw not only the boys but the parents enjoy a fun night out together. Sadly the next couple of weeks saw us lose consecutive games to the other Cronulla team and Drummoyne. From there we won a couple of more games including a very tight match against Sydney Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Uni Gold, a game that would prove to be pivotal in us making the finals. In round 9 the boys played in a somewhat intense game against SNB that ultimately saw us lose the match but really mature as a team. The next 3 weeks saw strong wins against teams from Sydney
University and UTS Balmain. The final 2 rounds saw us, unfortunately, lose to Cronulla Blue and Drummoyne again. But this time round we took it right up to them with both games going right down to the wire.
All of this got us into the Finals. Definitely a goal at the start of the season and something everyone involved should be immensely proud of. Our first match was against Sydney University Gold and in a very tight match we prevailed 7-6. This win took us into the preliminary final to play our old adversaries Cronulla Blue where the winner would go through to the GF. In a really hard fought match played in tremendous spirit we sadly went down finishing the season with bronze.
We finished the season with 9 wins and 6 losses scoring 105 goals and conceding 80. The state championships saw us finish with 3 wins, 1 draw and 4 losses scoring 38 goals and conceding 38 goals.
During the season every one of the boys has made vast improvements from the beginning of the season. The boys were willing to work hard and were rewarded for their efforts. Only 3 teams in the competition were able to beat us and every player scored goals. They also managed to have a heck of a lot of fun along the way.
Brad, Byron, Eoghan, Finn, Isaak, Jack, Jarrod, Jesse Lockyer and Tom you all did an awesome job. Your families are all very proud of you and we hope you are proud of your achievements. I have definitely had a rewarding summer watching your development as a team.
To all of the parent’s thank you for your friendship and support throughout the season, you made my first year managing very enjoyable.
Finally to Ian, thank you for coaching our team this year. Your guidance and commitment to the team saw every member improve. Your leadership was invaluable in the success we enjoyed. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
M16B1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT
Coach Luke Zagame Manager Jan Colaco
The 2nd of the 3 selected U16 boys’ teams – this team was entered into the U16 B competition this season. Five of the initially selected players dropped out of the playing roster – the team continued with a limited roster of 9 players remaining for the season. With only 4 players carried over from the previous U16 year the boys showed great commitment, as seen in the number of games they all played & attendance at training. The boys should be commended on always trying their hardest and playing cohesively as a team – their strength throughout the season was their level of teamwork & their support of each other. All of the boys improved as individual players and as a team unit, showing good sportsmanship & camaraderie.
Team List
1 Max Slavin 15 games goalie 2 Johno Ellis 14 games 21 goals 5 Dan Colaco 15 games 31 goals 6 Jake Hensley 14 games 10 goals 7 Ryder Graham 14 games 16 goals 8 Scott Simpson 13 games 6 goals 9 Nick Beattie 15 games 14 goals Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
11 Liam Penrose 15 games 7 goals 13 Jack Rudkins 15 games 18 goals
Season Results
Sydney metro U16 B boys Comp – 2nd place (silver medal) NSW State Club championships U16A boys draw – 10th place overall (out of all teams) – highest placed B team National Club Championships U16 boys – not held yet – regrading / team selections for Nationals to be confirmed
Memorable moments from the season included
Luke Zagame (coach) & Ash Colaco (fill in coach) getting in the water with the boys in warm up & in training Playing off in the metro final against the Cronulla B2 boys team – a close game with well-matched players – the B1 boys progressed to the grand final, while the B2 boys came 3rd overall Motivational pep talk at training in the week before the metro grand final from Ziggy (Nicola Zagame) – emphasizing that if we stick to our strengths, try 100%, & have fun – we are unstoppable. The team improved their result against Drummoyne from a 14-7 loss in the semi-final - to a 6-6 draw at the end of normal time in the grand final. Every game through the metro season & at state had been tough against this team. The grand final was no different, with the result of the final game decided by a penalty shootout. The trip to U16 State in Canberra at the end of January was a highlight of the season. All 3 Cronulla U16 boys’ teams and families stayed at the same tourist park which led to a very social time for everyone. Our goalie Max Slavin was awesome despite recently recovering from food poisoning. We added a player from the draft – hopefully Jack Cockington will play for Cronulla again in the future. The higher ranked 16A teams certainly tested the boys skill sets with games against bigger stronger opposition, but they continued to have fun & learnt a new level of water polo in the process. The boys introduced some new plays into their repertoire (park the bus & shield wall) with varying levels of success the 16B1 boys enthusiastically participated in a National League style fines system at State – with exemplary attendance at team meetings. The equal points winners (“loser’s”) were Liam “the nudist” Penrose & Jake “semi nudist” Hensley.
Thank you to all the parents for all their support of the boys’ commitments during the season & for the team as a unit, also for their help with table duty & match reports, and for the “professional’ photography through the season. Good luck in future seasons – I hope you all continue to play and learn and enjoy the game. I will see you all around the pool. Congratulations to Luke & the team on their fantastic season
Jan Colaco
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
M16A SEASON REPORT
Coach Troy Stockwell Manager Rodney Molla
The team had a poor start to the season, and after four rounds of the Metro comp we had only one victory, and things were looking tough. As the weeks went by, the boys were building skills and confidence in each other and the way that coach Troy wanted things to happen in the pool.
Our team competed in the World Club Challenge tournament just after Christmas, and we had some really good games against many other combined teams boasting, interstate “guest” players to help boost their ranks. As part of this tournament, many of our team families acted to billet the visiting Partizan Serbian team, which gave our boys insights into Serbian waterpolo, and generally of what life is like living and playing in Europe.
After the world club challenge, the boys really found their form. We went to the State Championships in Canberra with high hopes, and with some really gutsy come from behind performances, the boys ended up winning the title – a fantastic result!
We were winning most of our metro games in the second half of the season, finishing the regular season in fourth place, and then beating SNB in the elimination final, but going down to Drummoyne in the semi-final. So a final result of third in the metro tournament. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
In February the boys also were involved in a training weekend in Melbourne against the Collegians team, which proved to be very valuable for endurance and match hardened skills.
Overall a very pleasing year for our boys, with the highlight being the state championship, plus a number of boys have been recognised with representative honours at both state and national team level. Bring on the national titles in October!
Hayden Molla – strong at the back, and leads the boys from start to finish
Chris Davidson – the consistent performer, always reliable and hard working
Euan Stockwell – the motivator, always giving the coach (his dad) a hard time
Nathan Clarke – the speed machine of the team, always good for a counter attack
Danny Kerr – the big left hander, with great extra man finishing
Ziggy Martin – reliable in centre forward, our 5M weapon
Harry Dickins – makes it happen from centre forward, great backhands
Kal Glanznig – works hard all over the pool, gets the goals when we need them most
Jordon Duncan – quietly gets it all done, great speed, true team player
Brock Moller – consistently solid in defence, ready for another season in the 16’s
Callum Redrup – strong outside shot, speed to burn, always looking to learn
Fins Up!
Troy and Rodney
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
L16B SEASON REPORT
Coach Jessica McLean Manager Stuart Taylor
The L16B’s team consisted of eleven girls who came together very well as a team. Their first few games were a bit rocky as they didn’t know each other but by the 4th round they were firing. The parents were excellent to work with as well, supporting both Jess and myself throughout the season. The parents readily accepted table duty, pool control and other duties I assigned them, as well as fully supporting extraneous events such as supporting the National League girls and participating in a team lunch. Overall, a pleasure to work with.
The girls worked hard all season and attendance at training was high. It was great to see smiles on the girls’ faces when they trained - and played. It was a goal at the beginning of the season that all girls would finish the season being better players and that their smiles and love of playing Polo remained intact. I’m happy to say we achieved this.
Overall the team played 13 games as the Central Coast withdrew from the competition in Round 1. Of the 13 games played we lost 2, drew 1 and won 10 games.
A few significant things to note; we beat Ryde Black 8-2 in Round 10 when they were No.1 on the table and ultimately they won the Grand Final. Also, across all the U16 competition teams, all clubs, both boys and girls, we had the lowest number of goals scored against us in the regular season, having conceded only 25 goals, quite an achievement.
After much pressure from our executive we also were able to play at the State Championships in Orange. All girls attended and it was a great experience for the players and parents alike. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Overall we finished 3rd in the regular season 4th overall and also 4th in the State Championships. I happy to report that there were no incidents of note and it was a pleasure to manage this team. We finished off the season with a parents lunch.
Fins Up!
Jess and Stuart.
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
L16A2 CRONULLA BLACK SEASON REPORT
Coach Lisa Weekes Manager Clare Carroll and Kirrillee Gardiner
The Summer 15-2016 season had some great inspiring moments. We won games and lost games but always tried our hardest during the season. The highlight was the State Championships in Orange when we played a close game against the Cronulla 16A1 team. Throughout the season the girls were committed, competitive, respectful and above all enjoyable to coach.
To all the 16A2 Black girls, thank you for your outstanding efforts during the year. Thank you for the way you played the game and thank you for playing in a spirit in which you did your club proud as well as your parents and yourselves. At the end of the day water polo is a team game and every player is to be congratulated on their effort and performances across the season.
Many thanks must go to the parents who helped with the scorecard, shot-clock and transporting their children to training, games and the U16 State Championships in Orange and always providing a supportive environment.
Lisa, Clare and Kirrillee
Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
L16A1 CRONULLA BLUE SEASON REPORT
Coach Mikaela Gatherer Manager Ian Gatherer Team: Isobel Williams, Nicole Dunn, Abbey Freeman, Jessica Spooner, Chelsea Weekes, Rachel Hull, Taylah McAuliffe, Briarne Gatherer, Karla Vincent, Maddison Reynolds MVP: Chelsea Weekes
Coaches Award: Jessica Spooner
Achievements:
4th NSW State Championships
2nd NSW Club Metro Competition
The girls did extremely well throughout a difficult year.
The team found themselves with tough competition throughout the whole of the summer comp playing against the best U16 club teams in NSW and Australia. Despite this it was fantastic to watch the girls trying their hardest every week and developing their skills and always pushing the opposition to the final whistle.
Many thanks to the parents who helped with the scorecard, shot-clock and transporting their children to training, games and the U16 State Championships in Orange.
Keep up the training and good luck in Hobart.
Finns Up! Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
Mikaela and Ian G M18 SEASON REPORT
Coach Chris Batty Manager Michael Milinkovic
The boys have had a reasonable first season in the u18 division narrowly missing the top 4 play-off positions for the Sydney Metropolitan Finals.
The highlight of the season for the boys was a Bronze finish at the NSW U18 Championships this year at Parramatta pool. I was very proud of the boys’ achievement as they developed as a team throughout the tournament and improved on the aspects we needed to every game.
The World Club Water Polo Challenge at the end of 2015 was a great tournament to gain experience playing against some tough national and international opponents. The boys have their best at a difficult time of year and were rewarded with a sixth place result.
With both coach and our most experienced players Keelan missing for many games of the season due to National League commitments, I thought the boys showed great commitment and adversity throughout the season.
Big thank you to Kyle for stepping in goals all season, even though he is a more than capable field player. Fins Up boys and more achievements to come!
Regards
Chris Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
L18 SEASON REPORT
Coach Mitchell Scott Manager Monica Clarke
Team:
Chelsea Clarke, Thea Carroll, Kate Gallaher, Mollie Williams, Bethany Clark, Mackenzie Hoy, Kiara Holden, Dani Robertson, Isabella Cahill, Brooke McLean, Michaela Wagner Charlotte Wilson
MVP: Brooke McLean
Coaches Award: Charlotte Wilson
Achievements:
1st NSW State Championships
1st NSW Club Metro Competition
2nd Australian Club National Championships
The girls had an outstanding season, 2 gold and a silver medal in all 3 tournaments the team could enter for their age group. With many interruptions throughout the season due to NL and Australian Junior Camps, the players all showed outstanding commitment to train at their best and create a dynamic team culture. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report
NSW Club Metro Competition
The girls finished 2nd in the NSW Club Metro Competition Rounds behind SNB Breakers. In 2 of the 3 games we played against SNB in the season, our team was depleted with several players on NL road trip.
In the major semi-final, the girls defeated SNB 11-9 to progress through to the grand final.
In the grand final, the girls dominated UNSW 10-3 to claim back-to-back NSW L18 Grand finals for the club.
NSW State Championships
The girls went through the NSW State Championships undefeated. The girls defeated Sydney Uni Lions in the semi-final and then defeated Drummoyne Devils in the grand final in the grand final 7-4. Congratulations to Brooke for being named MVP of the tournament as well as in the Tournament team alongside Kiara Holden.
Australian Club National Championships
The girls went into the tournament ranked the #1 seeded team in Australia. This meaning we avoided an intense knockout game on Day 1 and progressed through to the Championship Round.
After day 1, the championship round split into 2 groups of 4 where we drew Melville, Sydney Uni and Ovens and Murray/ACT in our pool. We defeated all 3 teams in the rounds and finished top of our pool to progress through to the semi-final.
With 3 out of the 4 teams from NSW, we matched up against SNB Breakers and defeated them in a close encounter 12-10. With Drummoyne being defeated by Melville in the other semi-final, it was a rematch of the round game against Melville.
The final was an intense and tight battle. We held a 1 goal lead heading into the final quarter but failed to hold on and credit to Melville, the produced an outstanding final term to win 11-7.
A great effort by all girls and an unbelievable season to achieve what they did throughout all competitions. As a coach I am super proud of them.
A big thanks to manager Monica Clark for all her hard work and help in keep me in control and organized (and calm!!). All the behind the scenes work and organization for all tournaments was greatly appreciated and couldn’t of done this without you.
A big thanks you to Sandra, Ziggy and Bec throughout the season for helping out when needed to either coach or take a training session.
#finsup
Mitch…. Cronulla Sharks Water Polo 2015-2016 Annual Report