This month we hear from U18 Player Isla Jamieson who is currently in the Kristin Prem Girls Team and Tier 2 Women's Team. Get to know Isla below...

Full Name: Isla Jamieson

How long have you been playing water polo?

I have been playing water polo for 7 years now as I started in year 6 (not counting flippa ball)

What made you take up the sport?

I remember bringing home a leaflet one day for water polo trials and asking my parents if I could go as I did swimming, and it looked a lot more enjoyable than swimming laps. I ended up making the team and playing with girls a few years above me which was great. Since then, I have kept playing and never looked back.

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

I would say having to wake up at 5am for early morning trainings, especially in the winter having to jump into the cold pool.

What is the most rewarding part of the sport for you?

I feel the most rewarding part is working hard to better my skills and practice them with my teammates. It’s great when the training and effort you have put in helps you to achieve your goals of things like winning nationals.

Last year you travelled to Hawaii, Australia, won a Silver Medal and many more accomplishments! What was your 2023 highlight?

Getting to play overseas twice in one year was awesome but getting to compete in the Hawaii tournament was probably my highlight as I got to play against international teams in such a great tropical setting with friends.

What are you looking forward to this year in Terms of Water Polo?

I’m looking forward to training and playing with the hammerheads this coming season. It will be a great opportunity to play against some strong teams and improve on my skills.

Do you have a Water Polo ‘idol’ you look up to? Who is this and why?

During my years of playing, I have always looked up to my coaches and older teammates but Tilly Kearns has been someone I have admired recently. She plays for AUS and will be going to the Olympics with them. In the pool, she is always determined to get the ball, and she pushes herself to do her best. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time in terms of Water Polo?

In 5 years I will be 22 and I’m not sure what I will be up to but hopefully I will still be playing with the hammerheads if I’m in NZ. 

Quick Fire Round

1.     Pool or Beach?  Beach 

2.     If you could be an animal, what would it be? Sea turtle 

3.     One thing you can't live without?  Maltesers 

4.     Favourite Food?  Burgers 

5.     Favourite Movie/TV Show?  Shameless 

Article added: Wednesday 20 March 2024