Swim Ireland Water Polo has announced the selection of a talented squad for the 2026 European Aquatics U20 Girls Water Polo Championships, set to take place in Oeiras, Portugal, from August 1-7. This announcement marks a significant moment for Irish water polo, as the team prepares to compete against the best European talent at the U20 level.
The selected players bring a wealth of experience and skill to the tournament. Among them are Zoe O'Brien, a talented goalkeeper from St. Vincents, and her teammates, including the versatile Lana Awaja, Iona McDonnell, Rachel Corcoran, Niamh Connery, Mai Given, and Laura Casserly, all of whom have proven their mettle in previous tournaments. The team also includes Dulcie Bowden, Lucy Kelly, and Polly Short, who will be representing their respective clubs, Clonard and Cathal Brugha.
One of the standout players is Aine Hennessy, a goalkeeper from St. Vincents, who has been a pillar of strength for the team. Another notable name is Lydia McNicholas, a player from Tribes, who has been a consistent performer and a key contributor to the team's success. Completing the lineup is Lily Crudden, another player from Tribes, who has shown immense potential and is set to make a significant impact.
The selection process was led by National Head Coach Gordan Sablic, who expressed his excitement about the team's prospects. Sablic stated, 'It's great to see Ireland participating again in such a high-standard tournament. Our players already have experience at this level from previous tournaments, so we know what to expect. This will be another great experience for these players, and we're excited to compete against Europe's best and see what we can achieve as a team.'
The team staff includes Assistant Coach Mariusz Smialek and Team Manager Aveen Colvin, both of whom have been instrumental in shaping the team's strategy and ensuring the players' well-being. Their expertise and dedication will be crucial in guiding the team towards success in Portugal.
The 2026 European Aquatics U20 Girls Water Polo Championships promises to be a highly competitive event, and the Irish team is well-prepared to make their mark. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the squad has the potential to achieve great things and bring home valuable medals.
As the team prepares for the tournament, the nation holds its breath in anticipation. The Irish water polo community is united in its support for the players, and the team is poised to make a lasting impression on the European stage. The championships will undoubtedly showcase the talent and determination of these young athletes, and the results will be closely watched by fans and experts alike.
