The sport of water polo is diving headfirst into North Bay this fall following a successful trial run this past winter and spring.
Water polo is an aquatic sport where two teams compete to pass, throw, catch, and score the most goals during a four-quarter match. It embodies elements of physicality—think swift touches, occasional dunking, strategic pushes, and jostling to gain possession of the ball. Supported by the YMCA, several trial clinics were run in December 2022 and January 2023. Owing to the robust interest shown, pool time was quickly secured, leading to the formation of a co-ed adult team during the winter and spring terms.
Spearheading this refreshing water polo initiative are Joey and Alisha Postma, seasoned players with a decade-long love affair with the sport. Their expertise spans playing, refereeing, and coaching in places as varied as Nova Scotia, Ontario, and even the Caribbean island of Bonaire.
“Water polo is a sport, merging the tactical intricacies of basketball and soccer with the essence of swimming. While it may seem intimidating at first we warmly invite anyone with a foundational swimming skill to give it a whirl. No prior experience? No worries! We're sculpting this co-ed team because we love this game so much and we would love to share the thrill in our hometown," says coach Joey Postma.
As coaches, the Postma’s have worked with all different levels of water polo players, from raw beginners just starting out to high-level competitive athletes. As players, Joey and Alisha have been coached by some big names in the water polo world including ex-Olympian George Gross Jr., and Christi Bardecki the Youth Women’s National Team assistant coach.
The Y was abuzz during the winter and spring sessions as numerous North Bay residents dipped their toes (and more!) into this enticing new program. The skill range was diverse - from players seasoned with years of experience to pure rookies aiming to enhance their swim stamina. Everyone shared laughs, learned together, and forged bonds within the team.
“Water polo is growing in North Bay with many people participating that are new to the sport. North Bay is fortunate enough to have two exceptional water polo coaches, Ali and Joey. Beyond their expertise in the sport, they also know how to make our time as a group engaging and fun.” says current teammate Stefanus Edward and former Australian player.
“As an experienced water polo player myself, I recommend anyone from all background and experiences to come and join us at the Y and test out the water.”
With its promising debut sessions behind, water polo is set to make waves at the North Bay YMCA this fall. Scheduled twice a week from 8:30-9:30 PM, Tuesdays focus on boosting fitness and honing drills, while Thursdays immerse players in ball skills and game strategy. And what's a session without some fun? Every week the coaches try to incorporate a fun game at the end of practice.
For swimmers, water aficionados, or ball-sport enthusiasts seeking a fresh challenge, water polo beckons! If you are swimming in the pool, don’t be surprised if we wander over to invite you to swim with us. We revel in quenching curiosities and love when new faces dive in alongside us.
Program Notes: Registration for fall water polo can be made online or through the front desk at the North Bay YMCA. Members can register starting on September 13th at 7 a.m. and the public on September 20 at 7 a.m. The fall session begins the week of September 25th. We ask that all prospective water polo players be able to swim one length of front crawl and one length of backcrawl comfortably. If anyone has any questions please reach out through our facebook page or via email.
