Water polo champion

Year 12 Glen Waverley student Emily McGowan has recently taken her water polo career to the next level, representing Australia at the World Women’s Youth Water polo Championships in Madrid. Emily was thrilled with the opportunity to represent her country - she was selected following an impressive performance at the Under 18 national championships earlier this year.

Emily first developed her passion for water polo at Wesley in Year 7. She says, “I was originally a state level swimmer and also loved playing netball, so water polo seemed like a perfect mix!” She loves the team aspect of the sport, saying, “it’s awesome to be able to share your success with your teammates”.

The 18 year old currently represents Essendon Water Polo Club at a domestic level, the Victorian Institute of Sport team, and the Victorian Seals which competes in the National Water Polo League. She also loves playing for the Wesley Firsts, when her training commitments allow.

She says, “depending on the time of year, I train anywhere between 12 and 20 hours a week. I train mostly at the VIS with a normal week involving three gym sessions, three swimming sessions and 2-7 water polo sessions”.

Emily considers competing at the World Youth Championships her greatest sporting achievement to date. She says playing at such a major event was “amazing”, she loved the atmosphere and learning about other countries and regions playing technique and tactics.

Now that the championship is over the Year 12 student is turning her attention to her studies. She says balancing training and VCE has been a challenge that she hopes she has risen to, “being organised is the key!”

Wesley College congratulates Emily on a fantastic achievement.