Five rising stars from Redcliffe have cemented their place among Queensland’s water polo elite, returning from the State Championships with a haul of seven medals and state development honours.
This impressive feat by Amelie and Mara Hoefel, Eden Weir, Abbie McDonald, and Mia Doyle is a testament to their dedication and talent in the pool. The young athletes brought home a combined three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals, showcasing their versatility and competitive spirit.
Adding another layer of accomplishment, both Mara from Redcliffe State High School and Eden from Clontarf Beach State High School secured positions in the prestigious state 13 and under development program. This selection recognises their potential and paves the way for future success at the national level.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ MermaidsWaterPolo
Each player contributed significantly to their respective teams’ achievements. Mara’s golden moment came with Mermaids 12 Pink in the top 12 and Under Maroon Division, where she heroically scored the winning goal in a nail-biting 3-1 victory over All Hallows.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ WaterPoloQueensland
Meanwhile, Eden displayed her composure under pressure during the 12 and Under White Division bronze medal play-off. Representing the North Brisbane Polo Bears, she stepped up in the penalty shootout, scoring the winning goal that secured a 10-8 triumph against Gold Coast/Buderim.
In the Open Division, Amelie from Redcliffe State High School played a pivotal role in Mermaids Pink’s 9-5 victory over Brisbane Vikings Red. Her impressive performance included netting two goals, solidifying their claim to the championship title.
However, Amelie’s journey wasn’t solely paved with gold. She also collected a silver medal with Mermaids Pink in the 18 and Under Maroon Division, narrowly missing out on the top spot after a close match against Polo Bears. Additionally, she secured another silver in the 16 and Under Maroon Division, where Mermaids Pink fell 8-6 to UQ Purple.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ WaterPoloQueensland
Abbie McDonald of Grace Lutheran College also enjoyed a golden run with the St Ritas/Polo Bears team, conquering the 18 and Under Maroon Division. Their undefeated journey culminated in a thrilling 10-7 victory over Mermaids Pink in the final.
Mia Doyle, also from Grace Lutheran College, rounded out the Redcliffe medal haul with a bronze in the 16 and Under Maroon Division. Partnering with St Ritas/Polo Bears, they dominated All Hallows Blue 15-5 in the play-off, securing a well-deserved podium finish.
With the 2024 Queensland State Titles attracting over 120 teams from across the state, this impressive showing by the Redcliffe players is even more noteworthy. Their dedication and talent have not only brought glory to their local community but also secured them a bright future in the competitive world of water polo.
Published Date 24-April-2024
