This month we hear from Club Member Olivia Shine. Olivia is currently playing in the U16 and U18 Maroon Girls Teams. She recently travelled to Hawaii with the U16 Girls who took out the U16 Division. Olivia has also been selected for the NZ Youth Team to travel to Australia in October. Get to know more about Liv below.

How long have you been playing water polo?

I started playing in year 7 (2019) and joined Harbour in year 9.

What made you take up the sport?

My mum thought it would be a good opportunity to try something different and form new friendships.

What do you think is the most challenging part of the sport?

Undoubtedly, waking up at 5 am to jump into a cold pool.

What is the most rewarding part of the sport for you?

I believe the most rewarding part of playing is after putting in the hard work all season: achieving your team's shared goal, whether that be winning or otherwise.

You have recently been selected to represent NZ for the first time. What are you most looking forward to?

Other than the opportunity in itself to represent NZ. I’m excited to test my skills against the Aussie’s, learn from their playing style, and improve upon my own game.

Do you have a Water Polo ‘idol’ you look up to? Who is this and why?

Other than my coaches, my water polo idol would probably be Tilly Kearns. She plays for USC and Australia and I admire her, skill, determination and leadership in the pool.

You have just come back from Hawaii with the U16 Girls team. What was your favourite experience over there?

I loved spending so much time with my friends, whilst playing my favourite sport, in a different country! 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time in terms of Water Polo?

In 5 years I’ll be 21 and I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing yet, but I want to be in the Hammerheads regardless of where I go to uni and what I do.

Quick Fire Round

1. Pool or Beach? Beach

2. If you could be an animal, what would it be? A Platypus

3. One thing you can't live without? A large iced chocolate with blended ice and whipped cream

4. Favourite Food? Pizza

5.  Favourite Movie/TV Show? Star Wars

Article added: Thursday 24 August 2023