Following a successful year in the pool under the guidance of coach Delaine Christian, the Madibaz Water Polo Club have set a high standard for the future.
Two of the high points were finishing third in the University Sport South Africa week in Johannesburg and claiming the Port Elizabeth men’s league title.
Christian, herself, was rewarded for her efforts when she was named the Nelson Mandela University coach of the year at the varsity’s annual Achiever Awards function.
Madibaz water polo coach Delaine Christian has made a big impact on the sport at Nelson Mandela University this year. Photo: Supplied
She said they had been delighted with their third place in the USSA tournament after going into the event with an inexperienced side.
“Just before going to the tournament, two key players had to withdraw, but the players worked hard together to deliver some outstanding performances.
“To come third (behind winners UCT and Stellenbosch) was way above what we had imagined. It’s an amazing result and we know now that we are capable of so much more.”
Madibaz water polo manager Melinda Goosen said it was equally satisfying to win the local men’s league, adding that it made for a memorable year in the pool.
“We ran our first winter water polo five-a-side tournament, had several players in the provincial teams and some in the SA women’s squad.”
Goosen said Christian – who is an U17 and U19 national selector – had made a major impact in water polo at the varsity.