This month we kick the 2024  year off with a long time Club Member Flynn Howarth. Flynn has been a member of the club for many years now, taking part in the various age groups growing up. He is a current member of the Senior Mens team and has given a lot back to the club through coaching and refereeing. Get to know Flynn below and be sure to head along to see him in action this season with the Senior Men.

How long have you been playing water polo?

12 years now - started when I was approximately 10

What made you take up the sport? 

I started playing water polo as a fill-in for one of my sister's games. Her team was short a few players and asked if I would want to play in goal. After that I was allowed to play for my own teams and took like a duck to water and quickly discovered my love for the game.

What do you think is the most challenging part of the sport? 

The most challenging part of water polo is probably being physically fit enough to play the game at a high level. There is a very significant difference between personal enjoyment based on how fit you are. Fitness isn’t just being able to swim up and down the pool but being able to do so at a high standard and having the mental fitness to make the quick decisions.

What is the highlight of your playing career so far?

The highlight of my playing career so far would have to be playing for pacific in the semifinals of the 2022 NCAA championships. We unfortunately lost that game but it was an experience that will never be beaten.

What would your advice be to younger players who have just started or looking to push themselves to the next level?

There are a few things that are really important in water polo. The first is making sure that you are able to swim fast consistently. Whilst swimming is necessary, if you are fast you’ll be able to get yourself out of trouble more times than not. The second thing is having good body position. Defence or attack having your hips up in a ready state is arguably one of the most important parts of the game. Lastly we need to keep in mind that majority of the time we won’t have the ball in our hands and it’s what we do with this time that counts. Again whether it is defence or attack this is the time where we are able to make the most impact on the game.

In terms of Water Polo, where do you see yourself in five years time? 

Hopefully still playing water polo for the turtles and representing NZ on the international stage.

Quick Fire Round

Summer or Winter?

Summer definitely 

If you could be an animal, what would it be? 

A dolphin

Early riser or night owl? 

Is neither an option. I like my sleep.

Favourite song at the moment? 

If I know me - Morgan wallen

Favourite Movie/TV Show?

Quantico

Article added: Thursday 29 February 2024