The annual schools’ inter-provincial water polo tournament (IPT 202ONE) is on track for 15-19 December 2021 in Cape Town says Local Organising Committee chairperson Anton Botha.
‘The reasons for the cancellation of last year’s tournament are well known, but we are confident that this year’s event will take place. We have consulted far and wide and will be implementing all the applicable health and safety protocols to ensure that players, coaches, managers and match officials operate in a safe environment as can be made.’
‘The one down-side – at the moment – is that there will be no spectators allowed at the venues. The up-side is that every game will be live-streamed by SuperSport Schools. This is a significant plus for our sport as it will be the first time that family and friends will be able to watch games live from anywhere in the world.’
All provinces have confirmed their interest, the only teams not participating this year will be the Zimbabwe delegation.
This prestigious event is the largest age-group water polo tournament in the southern hemisphere. Waterpolo is the only team sport in the country where boys and girls from U13 to U19 compete together at an annual tournament, the rules are the same barring minor adjustments for age.
‘Covid has wrecked many learners’ sporting ambitions. But IPT 202ONE will provide an opportunity for elite water polo players to return to the sport they love, and for the matric cohort to end their school time on a high as they compete against the best in the country, says Anton.
Parents and other interested parties should regularly visit the SWPSA website and Facebook page for updates.
www.swpsa.co.za
@schoolswaterpolosouthafrica