Sedgefield Water Polo Club sent two teams to compete at the senior ManUp tournament held in Salford Quays, Manchester last month.
This was an outdoor tournament held in the Quays, which took on a different format of polo to what the players are used to. The smaller pitch and slightly different rules made the games more fun, exciting and fast paced with lots more opportunity to score goals.
Sedgefield United was the club’s senior team, aiming to defend the title they won back in 2022, whereas Sedgefield Wednesday was the club’s junior development team with players ranging from 14-18 years old; some of whom had never played outdoors.
The tournament was a fantastic opportunity for the development team to gain experience of playing against older teams from across the country in a fun environment, despite the weather! Teams played included The British Army, Hallam Young Boys, Manchester Met and Hallam Old Boys. Although Sedgefield Wednesday didn’t win any of their games, they showed great team spirit and thoroughly enjoyed the tournament.
Sedgefield United were placed in a group with teams including Rotherham, Bridgefield and Hallam Old Boys. They continued where they left off from last year, playing well and making it through to the final – which was very closely contested but they were unfortunately beaten by Manchester Met 4-2.
A spokesperson for the club said: “It was excellent to watch the two teams not only having fun in the water, but supporting each other from the sidelines, demonstrating the fantastic camaraderie in the club. Thanks also to all the parents and supporters for travelling over to Manchester and braving the weather on a very wet Saturday afternoon.”
In addition to Junior and Senior sessions, Sedgefield Water Polo Club now offers a beginner session at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre on a Saturday afternoon for those wishing to try this fun and exciting sport.
All sessions need to be booked in advance, so please check our website for further information and joining instructions.
Contact 07579 030598 or email sedgefieldwp[@]hotmail[.]com.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
