This month we hear from Senior Women's Player, Ava Cooper. Ava is a long time coach, player and referee at our club who has risen through the ranks from U12 all the way to our Hammerheads! 

Full Name:

Ava Cooper

How long have you been playing water polo?

I have been playing for about 12 years.

What made you take up the sport?

I had a family friend start coaching a flippa ball team at my primary school and I’ve been hooked ever since.

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

I think the most challenging part of water polo is having confidence in yourself and not letting the doubt and the crowd affect your performance. 

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

The friendships that I have made throughout the sport is the most rewarding thing, you find people you click with in and out of the pool and make friends for life. 

What is your biggest Water Polo Highlight been so far?

My biggest highlight would have to be getting to go to Hungary and Serbia for the NZ Youth Women World Championships. It was an amazing opportunity to play against other countries and explore a new country.

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

Ever since I have joined the club I have had Chelsea as my coach, she has taken majority of my Harbour and Rangitoto College teams since I was U14. It had always been my goal to play and train alongside her in the Hammies, which I got to do for 3 years until she retired on a gold medal last year! She has always been able to motivate me to do better and I’ve looked up to her ever since I started my water polo journey.

You are just about to get your 2024 Hammies Season underway with the Senior Women. What does it mean to you to be a Hammie and represent the club at the top level?

I have been a part of the Hammies squad for a few years now and I have to say it has got one of the best team cultures which makes training and games so much fun. Everyone supports each other and it is like another family. Being a part of the Hammies is such a special experience!

What advice would you give to our younger club members who are just beginning their Water Polo journey?

Train hard and have a positive attitude. It is important to take the advice given to you from your coaches and teammates and never be scared to ask a question if you are confused or need clarification!

Quick Fire Round

1.     Pool or Beach? Beach

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

3.     Sweets or Chocolate? Chocolate

4.     Pre Game Song? Unwritten

5.     Favourite Movie/TV Show? Modern Family/ How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days

Article added: Wednesday 31 July 2024