News

Gosford Water Polo Create History with Three Straight Men’s & Women’s NSW Country Championship Titles

Published Mon 26 Jan 2026

 

Gosford Water Polo Create History with Three Straight Men’s & Women’s NSW Country Championship Titles

We are incredibly proud to share that Gosford Water Polo has made history by claiming the Men’s and Women’s A Division titles at the NSW Country Championships — for the third year in a row. This historic double three-peat is a first for the competition and is something our entire club should be immensely proud of.

To win once is special. To win three consecutive years in both divisions is a reflection of the culture, commitment, and community that defines Gosford Water Polo.

A Club Effort Built on Culture and Connection

Country water polo is about so much more than medals, and this tournament once again reminded us why the NSW Country Championships are such a special event. It’s a weekend that brings together players, families, friends, and supporters from across regional NSW, creating lifelong friendships and memories that extend well beyond the pool.

That sense of connection and shared experience is at the heart of our club and was on full display throughout the weekend.

Outstanding Coaching Leadership

A huge part of our continued success comes down to the incredible work of our coaches. Jai McNamara and Jackie Morrison led our A Grade teams with professionalism, passion, and clarity, creating an environment where athletes could perform at their best under pressure. Their leadership and commitment to our players and our club cannot be overstated.

Individual Honours

We were proud to see several of our athletes recognised for their outstanding performances:

Men’s A Division

  • Luke Stimson – Most Valuable Player (MVP)

  • Lachlan Walter – Most Valuable Goalie (MVG)

Women’s A Division

  • Harlei Kricak – Most Valuable Player (MVP)

  • Emily Grellman – Most Valuable Goalie (MVG)

These awards reflect not only individual excellence but also the strength of our teams as a whole.

Special Moments That Capture Country Water Polo

One of the most memorable moments of the weekend came poolside, with Lachlan Walter and Emily Grellman’s 10-month-old son, Tiberius, cheering them on throughout the tournament. His presence was made possible by the incredible support of teammates, friends, and members of the wider water polo community who helped care for him while his parents were competing. Lachlan & Emily were beyond grateful for everyone's support throughout the weekend.

It’s moments like these that perfectly capture what country water polo — and our club — is all about.

Depth Across the Club

Our success extended beyond the A Grade teams. We were proud to have had multiple Gosford players in the Men’s Barbarians team, representing our club and contributing strongly throughout the tournament.

Our Women’s B team also had a fantastic weekend, showcasing the depth, growth, and development within our club. Their performances reflected the strength of our pathways and the positive future ahead.

Thank You

This achievement belongs to everyone who contributes to Gosford Water Polo — our players, coaches, team managers, referees, volunteers, parents, supporters, and the broader country water polo community. We also acknowledge and thank those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make weekends like this possible.

We would also like to sincerely thank Water Polo NSW for the organisation and delivery of another outstanding NSW Country Championships. Events like this are the heartbeat of country water polo, providing opportunities for regional athletes, coaches, referees, and volunteers to come together and showcase the best of our sport.

Your continued support of country competitions, commitment to development, and dedication to creating a positive and inclusive environment make weekends like this possible. We are incredibly grateful for the work that goes into running such a significant event and for the role WPNSW plays in strengthening water polo across regional NSW.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this historic milestone, we remain focused on continuing to grow our club, support our athletes, and uphold the values that make Gosford Water Polo such a special place to be.

Three years. Two divisions. One club.
We couldn’t be prouder.

Sponsors