Sydney Stingers launch new women’s program.
Two-time Olympian, Beijing 2008 bronze medalist and out athlete Bec Rippon has thrown her support behind Sydney Stingers Water Polo’s new women’s program. The program will kick off this Saturday morning at Ryde Aquatic Centre with a free Come-And-Try session, open to beginners as well as experienced players.
“Water polo is a fun, challenging and safe sport that’s enjoyed by women across Australia and around the world,” says Olympian Bec Rippon. “Until now, there hasn’t been an option in Sydney for gay women who want to play in a club that’s specifically set up to be LGBTIQ-inclusive. I’m excited that that’s about to change.”
Also lending her support is Water Polo Australia National League player and regular Sydney Stingers coach, Michaela Davies. “Gay or straight, retired player, looking to play social or with friends, or just want to try something new… everyone is welcome to come along for our trial day with some of the most experienced players in female water polo”, said Michaela. “The Sydney Stingers are an LGBTIQ-inclusive club which means EVERYONE is welcome as long as they come with a fierce attitude and a smile on their dial!”
This won’t be the first time the Sydney Stingers have had female members, says club President David Parsons. “We’ve always been champions of inclusion in sport – whatever your gender or identity,” said David. “But in the past we haven’t had that critical mass that we needed to sustain a full female team. This time, we’ve done a recruitment drive targeted specifically towards women, and the response has blown us away. We’ve been fortunate to get the assistance of some really talented women in the water polo community to help organise this – including Bec and Michaela – and that support has been key,” he said.
Overseeing the program is Emily Scott, who joins the Sydney Stingers with 12 years experience in water polo, including 6 years in the National League. “This is a great step towards greater LGBTIQ inclusion in the water polo community, and sport in Australia generally,” said Emily. “Teams like this increase LGBTIQ visibility in sports and demonstrate to people – especially young people – that being LGBTIQ does not impact your ability to play sports,” Emily says she’s encouraged by enrolments so far. “We’ve got a great mix of women who’ve already registered, from complete beginners through to former national representatives.”
WHEN
Saturday, March 17
9:30 am
WHERE
Ryde Aquatic Centre
Transgendered and non-binary identifying persons are very welcome.
Check out the Stingers Women’s Facebook page for more info, or check out their event.
