At the recent state championships, which were physically the toughest I have personally witnessed, the team were outstanding taking on all comers including the fancied UNSW Wests, Hunter and ultimately Sydney University in the gold medal match.
So impressive were the boys in the pool games they only conceded 6 goals whilst scoring 57. In the semi-final they shut Hunter out 13 – 8 and in the final dominated Sydney University 7 – 4. As an example of the strength of this team across the pool every field player goaled in the tournament.
The blend of youth provided by Ben Scobie, Keellan Milinkovic, Ryan Greer, Aden Simmons, Dan McStravick, Jono Ryan and the hard edge contributed by Tom Freeman, Lachie Clarke, Rhys Holden, Alex Hoy, Jack Robertson and Angus Lambie has created an exceptionally willing and skilful team. This has been recognised by Tom, Lachie, Rhys and Angus being selected in the “Tournament 7” team as the best players at the tournament. I expect that higher honours in the form of NSW selection will follow for much of the championship team and this week Rhys Holden, Tom Freeman and Angus Lambie will attend the Australian Born 96 training camp in Sydney.
There is a bright future for Sharks Water Polo with such talented players and dedicated coaches.
