The Under-12s Water Polo Festival is returning to Orange Aquatic Centre from March 7 - 9, 2025, bringing together young athletes from across the state for a weekend of fun, skill development, and friendly competition.
The Orange Water Dragons training ahead of the 2025 Water Polo Festival.
Orange's talent will be on display with 18 locals across three Orange Water Dragons teams, including representatives from Kinross Wolaroi and Orange Anglican Grammar schools.
The event, hosted by Water Polo NSW, is a participation-based tournament, giving the sport's youngest players an opportunity to build confidence, refine their skills, and experience competitive play in a supportive and inclusive environment.
"The kids absolutely get hooked on the atmosphere, the excitement of being with their mates, learning about the sport and pushing themselves to achieve their best," said Water Dragons Coach, Sarah Sokol.
The festival, now in its 7th year, will welcome 150 athletes across 15 teams, competing in boys' and girls' divisions. Teams from across NSW and regional areas-including Sydney, Tamworth, and Wagga-will travel to Orange to take part.
"So many clubs from Sydney and around NSW always say how much they love Orange and the U12's Festival. The kids and families of U12's look forward to it every year," Ms Sokol said.
The Orange City Council runs the Orange Water Polo Association, something that Orange City Council Recreation Chair Cr Tammy Greenhalgh is immensely proud of.
"We're building a strong water polo culture in Orange. Events like this are not just about winning-they're about giving kids the chance to be part of something bigger, to dream about where the sport can take them," she said.
Water polo is a fast-paced, skill-driven sport that promotes teamwork, resilience, and physical fitness. The Under-12s Festival plays a crucial role in growing the sport in regional areas, ensuring young athletes have the same opportunities as their metropolitan counterparts.
Event details:
Dates: March 7-9, 2025
Location: Orange Aquatic Centre
Entry: Open to U12 players (born in 2013 or later)
