If you have never heard of water polo, no it is not polo in the water. Picture handball in the water, and that is water polo. Stirling University has two teams; men’s and women’s.
The men’s first game was on the first BUCS Wednesday of the year, 27 September. They played away against Robert Gordan University, bringing back an amazing win 23-9. After losing most of the team last year due to graduating, the team is now full of fresh faces and re-vitalised energy.
The first quarter started slow, but the tempo built up quickly. The third quarter was by far the strongest, after the break and a team talk. It was during this quarter that the most goals were scored but the whole game had a positive feel throughout, especially as it was the new players’ first game.
Player of the match was Rory Robertson who made himself a presence at both ends and was a danger to the opponents. Despite only making his debut he was incredibly effective in assisting both offense and defence.
The team looked strong, with some things to work on for their first home game but overall, a lot of positives to take away from the first game.
On the win over RGU, the men’s captain, Gregor Turner, said: “We won the game, but I started off slowly as did most of us getting rid of some rust but overall, a well-played game. It showed off how each player can contribute this year and that is something I’m looking forward to about this season, especially with how we can get the new players involved and finish as high as we can.”
The women’s season ahead
The women’s first game is also away, Wednesday 4 October in Glasgow. The excitement is high for the new season to start. The women’s team are the reigning champions of the Scottish Tier 1 and aiming to maintain that title this season.
Brig spoke to women’s captain Sophia Riemer on her thoughts ahead of the upcoming season.
“I am feeling very confident for the upcoming season, we have loads of new players bringing different skills and talents to the table. We are coming off of a very successful season last year and I am hoping to continue our accomplishments and have loads of fun in the process!” said Riemer.
The women’s water polo team also had a few players leave last season, so beware for the new talent that has come in. The first home game is Wednesday 18 October, stay tuned for more information to come to support the ladies in the pool as they look to top the table for a second year.
4 October is the men’s first home game, equally important as they aim to continue the momentum from their first confident win. Their game is at 1pm on Wednesday 4 October against Aberdeen, any support will not go unnoticed.
Featured image credit – Stirling University Water polo club
