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a person in a pool with a ball in their hand

Water polo in the Cayman Islands is making waves—literally! What started as a small but passionate group of athletes training in the ocean has grown into a full-fledged competitive program. Now, for the first time, we’re hosting an international tournament right here in our beautiful Caribbean waters!From March 19 to 23, we are thrilled to welcome Next Level Water Polo from Florida for a week of training and competition in the sea. This is a huge opportunity for our local players to test their skills against an international team, gain experience, and showcase what makes Cayman such a special place to play this sport.<h3>Training and Tournament on the Water </h3>Unlike traditional pool water polo, we train in the open sea, where the crystal-clear waters and fresh ocean breeze create an unforgettable playing environment. This upcoming tournament will take place right on the waterfront, allowing spectators to experience fast-paced, high-energy games with a stunning backdrop. Whether you’re a longtime fan of water polo or have never seen a match before, this is your chance to witness world-class action in a setting unlike any other.<h3>A Huge Step Forward for Cayman Water Polo </h3>Bringing this tournament to life wouldn’t have been possible without incredible support from our local community and the Waves for Water Polo initiative. Thanks to generous public donations, we’ve already raised $4,000 toward the purchase of a new inflatable water polo course—a game-changer for our program. This includes a 15m walking pad, which will make training and tournaments more dynamic and exciting. Yesterday, we put down the deposit, and now we’re pushing to raise the final $1,450 by March 13 to complete the purchase.<h3>Be Part of This Historic Moment </h3>This is more than just a tournament—it’s the next big step for Cayman water polo. The support we’ve received so far has been overwhelming, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed. Special thanks go to Next Level Water Polo, whose visit is helping to elevate our players and grow the sport on the island.Now, we need YOU! Come out and watch the games, cheer on our Cayman Pirates, and help spread the word about this incredible sport. Let’s show the world that Cayman is ready to make a splash in the international water polo scene!Stay tuned for match schedules and event details. If you’d like to donate and help us reach our goal, please get in touch—we’re almost there!<h3>See you on the waterfront for some unforgettable water polo action!</h3>

Water Polo in Paradise: Cayman’s Biggest Tournament Yet!

<h3>Cayman Aqualife Academy: Our First Inauguration Highlights</h3>This past weekend marked a big moment for Cayman Aqualife Academy. Our first official inauguration brought together players, parents, and coaches to celebrate the beginning of something special.<figure id="figure-z7xk22wnqpm6falg9w" class=""><img id="z7xk22wnqpm6falg9w" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38GmTBRlHKvVVy75XvkZlOREvvypjDdx28scfNgngFy10Hr6k2QbejJoZEQ7ZRUs.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 40%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="40%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38GmTBRlHKvVVy75XvkZlOREvvypjDdx28scfNgngFy10Hr6k2QbejJoZEQ7ZRUs.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 40%;"></figure>Coach Grant shared what it truly means to be a Pirate:1. You Own Your Space No one decides what you're capable of except you. We don’t wait for permission. We don’t follow maps made by others. We carve our own path. 2. You Back Your Crew We are a team. No one gets left behind. Pirates push each other forward and make sure everyone shines. 3. You Adapt to the Tides Things change. The wind shifts, the waves rise. Pirates don’t panic—we adjust, we stay strong, and we find opportunities where others see obstacles. 4. You Face the Unknown Growth comes from stepping into the unknown. Pirates go where others fear to tread. Not because we’re reckless, but because we know that’s where the real treasure is—growth, freedom, and meaning.<figure id="figure-5nt6redrjrm6faoagr"><img id="5nt6redrjrm6faoagr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28DZftX92iOOjQqGIYBpFeApJq77QP7TKVkdcODhCwayl29D8ESxEos28iBaurbj.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28DZftX92iOOjQqGIYBpFeApJq77QP7TKVkdcODhCwayl29D8ESxEos28iBaurbj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;"></figure>Each player was invited to join the Cayman Pirates, our water polo team, and received a gold pirate coin from Coach Grant as a symbol of their journey ahead.The energy, excitement, and commitment from everyone involved show that Cayman Aqualife Academy is off to a great start.We are proud of what we've built so far and excited for what’s to come. Stay tuned for more updates, tournaments, and training sessions.Join us on this journey. The adventure has just begun.

The Cayman Pirates

<figure id="figure-9s6u1wdj04m5o05v74"><img id="9s6u1wdj04m5o05v74" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aWnLOqUNTJoybni5HHcedZSpaN6eZepzj9InYvTOlFMEcw47Xm8A1jXhxFu6BLg.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aWnLOqUNTJoybni5HHcedZSpaN6eZepzj9InYvTOlFMEcw47Xm8A1jXhxFu6BLg.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Cayman Aqualife Academy Set to Compete in the Beast of the East Water Polo TournamentJanuary 18-21, 2025 Orlando Florida, USAThe Cayman Islands is making waves in the international water polo community! The Cayman Aqualife Academy will proudly send a team of talented young athletes to compete in the prestigious Beast of the East Water Polo Tournament from January 18 to 21, 2025, in Clermont &nbsp;Florida, USA.This marks a significant milestone for water polo in Cayman, as the team will face off against some of the toughest squads from across the United States. The tournament is renowned for its fierce competition, and Cayman’s players are ready to rise to the challenge.“This tournament is a huge opportunity for our team,” said Grant, head coach and coordinator of Cayman’s water polo program. “We’ve seen incredible growth over the past year, with kids who had never touched a water polo ball now competing on an international stage. Beast of the East will be a true test of their skills and determination.” Building Confidence and Experience :)<figure id="figure-pld6zyr5tom5o0dffb" class=""><img id="pld6zyr5tom5o0dffb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1a1ksS6wSnH2uzthdHhzqxpPTHaHJKXTNWhSnkPI4Tbwy2EagPT6BMuCIYM4QHPj.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1a1ksS6wSnH2uzthdHhzqxpPTHaHJKXTNWhSnkPI4Tbwy2EagPT6BMuCIYM4QHPj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>The team, made up of boys from John Gray High School, has been training rigorously over the past year. They’ve honed their techniques through local scrimmages, beach tournaments, and intense training sessions.Beyond the competition, Beast of the East offers a chance to learn from top-level players and coaches, build team camaraderie, and bring valuable experience back to Cayman.“We’ve worked hard to prepare for this, but the real victory is the journey these kids have taken to get here,” said Grant. “This trip is about growth, confidence, and proving that Cayman belongs on the water polo map.”<figure id="figure-rilm34c6jrm5o0f4mw"><img id="rilm34c6jrm5o0f4mw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ccEQkhFY8FRb10c79S4NsiI4x2hif343vlseM7YPSmBEkVbMfWebF1cxrHn3oRc.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ccEQkhFY8FRb10c79S4NsiI4x2hif343vlseM7YPSmBEkVbMfWebF1cxrHn3oRc.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Community Support Driving SuccessThis tour is possible thanks to the incredible support of the Cayman community. Sponsors,Cayman Goverment, Vitamin Shop and KPMG, parents, and volunteers have been instrumental in helping the team fundraise and prepare for the tournament.To continue the program’s success and make water polo more accessible to kids across Cayman, the Cayman Aqualife Academy is actively seeking sponsorships and partnerships. Follow the ActionStay tuned for updates throughout the tournament! We’ll be sharing match results, player highlights, and stories from the road on Instagram as Cayman’s team makes its mark at Beast of the East. For Sponsorship or More Information Contact: Grant FergusonCayman Aqualife Academy&nbsp;Email: coachgrantcayman@gmail.comPhone: (345) 326 3370 About Cayman Aqualife Academy The Cayman Aqualife Academy is dedicated to growing the sport of water polo in the Cayman Islands. Through school programs, monthly tournaments, and international travel opportunities, we’re focused on developing young athletes and providing them with pathways to success both in and out of the water. Join us as we continue to build a legacy of water polo excellence in the Cayman Islands!

JGHS Water Polo Tournament 2024

Battle of the Bay Tournament Update: Day 2 RecapClearwater, FloridaDay 2 of the Battle of the Bay Tournament brought even more action, intensity, and unforgettable moments for our team! After a successful Day 1, the kids were eager to get back into the pool and apply everything they’d learned. The excitement was palpable as they prepared to face some of Florida’s top youth teams, and they did not disappoint!<figure id="figure-i526tujq9m3eso3fz"><img id="i526tujq9m3eso3fz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/208U1pqkbdmnKjIxP0noSOjSrzHCL1yI99hMx7GK2mtv9XKzJbSbsPGnBonClKZC.jpg" alt="Friends enjoying a sunny day at the pool, swimming and having fun, creating lasting memories of relaxation and joy. A perfect vacation moment filled with laughter and togetherness" title="Friends enjoying a sunny day at the pool, swimming and having fun, creating lasting memories of relaxation and joy. A perfect vacation moment filled with laughter and togetherness" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 100% 90%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="100%" data-positiony="90%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/208U1pqkbdmnKjIxP0noSOjSrzHCL1yI99hMx7GK2mtv9XKzJbSbsPGnBonClKZC.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 100% 90%;"></figure>The Boys vs. The Gladiators &amp; Dynamo GoldFirst up were the boys, kicking off the day with a thrilling showdown against the Gladiators. From the opening whistle, it was clear this was going to be a close one. The boys fought hard, staying neck-and-neck with the Gladiators, holding their own and showing fantastic teamwork. It came down to the wire in the last chukka, but the Gladiators managed to pull ahead by just two goals. It was a tough loss, but the boys were undeterred, ready to bring that same grit to their next game against Dynamo Gold.In their second game of the day, the boys once again put on a show, taking on the strong and skilled team, Dynamo Gold. Just like their first game, it was a nail-biter, with both teams trading goals and keeping the score tight. As the clock wound down in the final chukka, Dynamo Gold managed to secure the win by a slim two-goal margin. Despite the losses, the boys left the pool with their heads held high, knowing they’d given everything they had. Each game taught them something new about positioning, teamwork, and resilience.<figure id="figure-gt5fmth1em3espbyq"><img id="gt5fmth1em3espbyq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27YUuHLLpn3oKS27sQep8no8RRplCAxbNIrIBnIEuYTD6JCS8iDpytVmlqPx1GYc.jpg" alt="Water Polo Field" title="Water Polo Field" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27YUuHLLpn3oKS27sQep8no8RRplCAxbNIrIBnIEuYTD6JCS8iDpytVmlqPx1GYc.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>The Girls vs. The Kraken - QuarterfinalsNext up were the girls, who had made it all the way to the quarterfinals! Their opponent? A formidable team known as the Kraken. The energy was electric as they took to the pool, both teams giving it their all in what would turn out to be the most intense match of the tournament so far. The girls matched the Kraken goal for goal, and by the end of the third chukka, they were trailing by just one point.With everything on the line, the girls dug deep, tying the game as the final whistle blew. The match went into a penalty shootout, and every player on both sides knew that one shot could decide it all. In the end, the Kraken narrowly clinched the victory by a single goal. But while the girls may have lost by the numbers, they won in every other way. They played with incredible spirit, skill, and courage, and we couldn’t be prouder of them.<figure id="figure-ectotkzg6im3esqg3c"><img id="ectotkzg6im3esqg3c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eMGpGkemu9gYNwQyBGArxWESw5xzZ6zZ4Jqln7dyB6ngulRQDlPi8nVdbAnRIc5.jpg" alt="Traditional Soccer Ball on Grass" title="Traditional Soccer Ball on Grass" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eMGpGkemu9gYNwQyBGArxWESw5xzZ6zZ4Jqln7dyB6ngulRQDlPi8nVdbAnRIc5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Building Friendships &amp; Looking AheadThe end of Day 2 marked the end of the tournament, but also the beginning of something even bigger. Each player walked away with new friendships, connections, and valuable lessons. They shared stories and laughs with players from other teams, becoming part of the vibrant Florida water polo community. We’ll definitely be back for more!<figure id="figure-iqpbb3u93m3esrprp"><img id="iqpbb3u93m3esrprp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13D9Ceh6xmcfoejzOkKINXARx0DmCMbxvjqipFOs6jtcy2ITVoqUcT7z6HylMcdU.jpg" alt="Dalmatian Puppy in Playground Boat on Sunset Pier" title="Dalmatian Puppy in Playground Boat on Sunset Pier" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13D9Ceh6xmcfoejzOkKINXARx0DmCMbxvjqipFOs6jtcy2ITVoqUcT7z6HylMcdU.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Exciting News: Next Stop - Beast of the East!The excitement doesn’t end here! Next month, we’re thrilled to be sending a team of eight boys from John Gray High School to represent us at the Beast of the East Tournament in Claremont, Florida! This will be another fantastic opportunity for our athletes to challenge themselves, grow, and take on new teams in a tournament known for its competitive spirit.Stay tuned for updates on the Beast of the East adventure. We can’t wait to see what our John Gray boys bring to the pool next month. Until then, thank you for all the support, and keep cheering us on!<figure id="figure-x471cgxul9m3eswf0a"><img id="x471cgxul9m3eswf0a" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36VqY2tfZnhGH1ghU8Cic4mU4l6iS5D60GjBxdsepSYHOfq1PEMfXLwYYTZVzxtT.jpg" alt="Minsk sea, sunset in cloudy weather" title="Minsk sea, sunset in cloudy weather" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Battle of the Bay Tournament Day 2

Battle of the Bay Tournament Update: Day 1 RecapClearwater, Florida<figure id="figure-or6488x9um3aey44f"><img id="or6488x9um3aey44f" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bQYrTYXeS1ciewe31DKHiS7Exw7lUCZLTdPXOZSHhhuKZqmXFmaNk0DA5Uc6oNJ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 80% 85%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="80%" data-positiony="85%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bQYrTYXeS1ciewe31DKHiS7Exw7lUCZLTdPXOZSHhhuKZqmXFmaNk0DA5Uc6oNJ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 80% 85%;"></figure>For many of these young athletes, this is their first time playing in an official water polo tournament. The experience is full of "firsts": playing in a structured team, competing in a pool, and feeling the energy of an organized match. With all the excitement and anticipation, they arrived yesterday, ready to take on new challenges, learn from each moment, and showcase the skills they’ve worked so hard to develop.<figure id="figure-u9iv2hn10fm3af9uu3"><img id="u9iv2hn10fm3af9uu3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1acx2T9FJCNRlnPdUMp4mYjBShh7XxtoiytZG7SsarGrfOyUAcqsE6e1ddGJq0Hi.jpg" alt="Summer spring children's playground with painted toy slide in park" title="Summer spring children's playground with painted toy slide in park" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1acx2T9FJCNRlnPdUMp4mYjBShh7XxtoiytZG7SsarGrfOyUAcqsE6e1ddGJq0Hi.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>We arrived yesterday after a long drive and went straight to the Long Aquatic Center here in Clearwater, where the kids had their first warm-up game. It was a special experience—they met their teammates, and for the first time in their lives, played water polo in a swimming pool! Watching them scrimmage with other players, feeling the excitement and energy of the game, was incredible. After that, it was an early night, resting up for the big day ahead.<figure id="figure-r54d21tu5cm3afb0tt"><img id="r54d21tu5cm3afb0tt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/174SnSUISMNNU4wS5ag4RIwOj1bXJPo4bpcsRuwgMwZWGQAptQdG3XQGpyrJiS9S.jpg" alt="Summer autumn children's playground with painted toy slide in public park" title="Summer autumn children's playground with painted toy slide in public park" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/174SnSUISMNNU4wS5ag4RIwOj1bXJPo4bpcsRuwgMwZWGQAptQdG3XQGpyrJiS9S.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This morning kicked off early with the boys’ first official game. They went up against a tough team, and while it was a challenging start, all three boys gained valuable experience. Each of them had some time in the water, learning about positioning, timing shots, and working with the shot clock and timer. It was clear they were soaking up everything and applying what they learned. Even though they didn’t come out with a win, they showed so much growth in understanding the game’s intricacies.<figure id="figure-vt6nq2kq5m3afc9q9"><img id="vt6nq2kq5m3afc9q9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14YYEkZmdyggfqLJBLxORqhaBR63ZlfV48ordX87hIVdH6btyhNGoFIfd6R9EUyt.jpg" alt="A Smiling Girl With A Basketball Is Sitting On A Skateboard On The Sports Field" title="A Smiling Girl With A Basketball Is Sitting On A Skateboard On The Sports Field" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14YYEkZmdyggfqLJBLxORqhaBR63ZlfV48ordX87hIVdH6btyhNGoFIfd6R9EUyt.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Later, it was the girls’ turn. Their game was intense, starting three goals down by halftime. But they fought back hard, tying the score by the third chukka and even taking the game to a nail-biting penalty shootout. The girls ultimately lost by one goal, but the determination and teamwork they displayed were unforgettable. For most of them, it was the first time playing an official water polo match, the first time in a pool, and the first time playing as part of a full team—an impressive list of firsts!<figure id="figure-jmvfpejty9m3afdlk6"><img id="jmvfpejty9m3afdlk6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16le7XIfIfHevq2j4aRcfPGt8SxVek4yJpvYWiP3DN8XNXecWx9uKfcff3d5Tw2d.jpg" alt="Dalmatian Puppy in Playground Boat on Sunset Pier" title="Dalmatian Puppy in Playground Boat on Sunset Pier" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>After the games, we returned to the hotel for breakfast and a team debrief. Each swimmer shared their thoughts, highlighting just how much they’re learning and actively applying in the games. The energy and enthusiasm are high, and we can’t wait to see what the next match brings.Hold on tight—there’s more action ahead as we take on the rest of this tournament! Stay tuned for more updates!

Battle of the Bay

<figure id="figure-x8oglvh75wrlxm8r91j" class=""><img id="x8oglvh75wrlxm8r91j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11ErVXRizXloSVzYcOkMT27ee3QE6ayY8LozEREToHuUt1oZkID8fr8cSIGHG8iW.jpg" alt="grayscale photo of boys football team in front of coach" title="grayscale photo of boys football team in front of coach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11ErVXRizXloSVzYcOkMT27ee3QE6ayY8LozEREToHuUt1oZkID8fr8cSIGHG8iW.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>A Year in Review: </h3>Water Polo Highlights and the Grand Finale Tournament at John Gray High School As the academic year comes to a close, it's a perfect time to reflect on the thrilling journey we've had in the world of water polo. This season has been packed with incredible matches, stellar individual performances, and unforgettable team efforts. From the adrenaline-pumping openers to the nail-biting final tournament, let's see the highlights of this year's water polo adventures.Introduction to Water Polo (December - Present) The journey began in December with a vision to introduce and expand the sport of water polo within our schools. The initiative saw significant milestones and achievements that laid a strong foundation for the sport's future.Boys to Men Program:Launch: The Boys to Men Program kicked off in January with 48 enthusiastic participants. Training: The program successfully introduced the fundamentals of water polo, fostering enthusiasm and engagement among the boys. John Gray High School (February - Present):Regular Training Sessions: Since February, John Gray High School has conducted four hours of water polo training each week, held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Expansion Plans: Starting in September, water polo will be integrated into the school curriculum with four hours of training during school hours and an additional two hours in the afternoon. This initiative aims to build a robust water polo program within the school. Cayman International School (CIS):Engagement and Training: CIS was informed about the upcoming tournament, and eight introductory sessions were conducted with their PT classes, explaining the rules and facilitating games to build interest. Tournament Participation: CIS will be encouraged to enter a team. The First School Water Polo Tournament (June 18th) Event Details:Date and Venue: Scheduled for June 18th at Governor's Beach. Participants: Grade 10 and 11 teams from John Gray High School will compete in this historic first school water polo tournament. Objective: The event aims to create a competitive yet friendly environment to showcase talent and encourage sportsmanship.<figure id="figure-76e0m9crjelxm8z7nn"><img id="76e0m9crjelxm8z7nn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fo4tJbjWFYcCXmkpI08CSX44wiSQvijT0MlDn5DGWN0ZsU4QRjCfMgdcBL8oSuLi.jpg" alt="two boys playing baseball" title="two boys playing baseball" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fo4tJbjWFYcCXmkpI08CSX44wiSQvijT0MlDn5DGWN0ZsU4QRjCfMgdcBL8oSuLi.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Proposed Schedule:Monthly Tournaments: A water polo tournament will be hosted at the beach once a month, following a round-robin format to engage and motivate participants. The goal is to include swim clubs and other interested groups. Saturday Practices: Extensive water polo practice sessions will be held on Saturday mornings, including a one-hour swimming fitness session followed by a one-hour technical play session.<figure id="figure-xrqijl0etblxm90759"><img id="xrqijl0etblxm90759" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39uuwhHeVtG9NTWCinj2kG7jIm4D5u6NQ7pPAkaoP2WKcqkEKsELxrfLrZ9YuuDj.jpg" alt="boy in red and blue soccer jersey kicking soccer ball on green grass field during daytime" title="boy in red and blue soccer jersey kicking soccer ball on green grass field during daytime" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39uuwhHeVtG9NTWCinj2kG7jIm4D5u6NQ7pPAkaoP2WKcqkEKsELxrfLrZ9YuuDj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Expansion Plans New Schools:Introduction Program: The program is hoping to expand to Clifton Hunter High School and Grace Christian Academy, increasing the number of schools involved, leading to more teams and more exciting gameplay opportunities. <figure id="figure-kfdryebinlxm9116n"><img id="kfdryebinlxm9116n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eEHndntftNLf74yWFGx24gd2bYiqh8SdoZYDpMc9TU3cEolcgdEbFtqOIkKFpAh.jpg" alt="orange basketball on brown wooden floor" title="orange basketball on brown wooden floor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eEHndntftNLf74yWFGx24gd2bYiqh8SdoZYDpMc9TU3cEolcgdEbFtqOIkKFpAh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Future Plans:Water Polo Club: A water polo club will be launched in September, offering three weekly workouts at the beach, each lasting two hours. The club will be open to all interested participants, focusing on skill development and team building. International Competitions: Preparations are underway for participation in international tournaments, with possible events in the Bahamas or Florida. The ultimate goal is to have a team ready for the Carifta Games in 2025. Sponsorship and Support:Seeking Sponsors: The initiative is actively seeking sponsors to support this voluntary program. Funding will help cover costs for equipment, travel, and training facilities, emphasizing the long-term benefits of building a strong water polo program in the Cayman Islands.This water polo program aims to nurture young talent, promote physical fitness, and build a competitive water polo community in the Cayman Islands. With the support of CIASA, we can elevate water polo to a prominent sport, providing opportunities for youth to excel both locally and internationally.As we look forward to the next season, we celebrate the achievements of all players, coaches, and supporters who made this year unforgettable. Here's to another year of exciting matches, emerging talents, and the ever-thriving spirit of water polo.<figure id="figure-7x4n69o0oslxm926xl"><img id="7x4n69o0oslxm926xl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fVB8jiNLzYFtm0AwcLLRDnkIhmFDEXoledYpbjd77FbZvnibq3FOBc8ZQ6YKiLM.jpg" alt="children playing soccer" title="children playing soccer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fVB8jiNLzYFtm0AwcLLRDnkIhmFDEXoledYpbjd77FbZvnibq3FOBc8ZQ6YKiLM.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

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