WATER POLO HISTORY

Water Polo has a long and proud history in Victoria, dating back to the late 1800s. It began as an exhibition sport played after swimming carnivals but quickly grew in popularity.

In December 1930, The Age announced Melbourne’s first women’s water polo competition—a groundbreaking moment in Victorian sport. Despite this, some expressed doubt, with the article stating, “Recognised as one of the most strenuous of games, it is doubtful whether many girls are fitted to take part, or could attain sufficient efficiency to make the games attractive to players or spectators.”

Nevertheless, three teams from Richmond, Kew, and Northcote entered. Although the competition was small, it laid the foundation for women’s water polo to establish itself in Victoria.

Richmond Water Polo has been at the forefront of Water Polo in Victoria. Originally competing as part of the Richmond Swimming Club, we officially became the Richmond Water Polo Club in 1921. Over the years, we’ve been home to Olympians, National and State representatives, and countless individuals who’ve developed a lifelong passion for the sport.

Today, with 12 junior teams and 7 senior teams across men’s and women’s divisions, we proudly carry on this rich sporting tradition.

Interested in trying or playing water polo? Contact us now.

Go Tigers ⚫️🟡