The inaugural SA Water Polo Winter Series delivered world-class action, record crowds, and a big boost for South African water polo.
Gqeberha, South Africa (12 August 2025) – The Newton Park Indoor Pool in Gqeberha was the stage for a thrilling debut of the South Africa Water Polo Winter Series that took place from 8 to 10 August, where the Rhinos men’s and Elephants women’s teams powered their way to overall victory.
The three-day tournament brought together 112 of South Africa’s top senior water polo players. Drafted into four franchise squads, namely the Rhinos, Buffaloes, Elephants, and Lions. All battling it out for a share of the R224,000 prize purse.
The men’s final was a heart-stopper. After a tense 13–13 draw in regular time, the Rhinos edged past the previously unbeaten Lions with an 8–7 penalty shoot-out win.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Rhinos captain Jonathan Swanepoel. “To have a game of such swings up by two, down by two and then an opportunity to win it at the end with three rounds of penalties that was definitely one for the spectators!”
The 24-year-old, who has competed at three world championships, believes events like this are vital for the sport’s growth.
“A tournament of this level of quality and professionalism is exactly what this country needs, and what the world needs, so I’m feeling really inspired and looking forward to many more of these to come.”
In the women’s competition, the Elephants were unstoppable, going unbeaten into the final. They led from the first chukka against the Rhinos and held on for an 11–10 win, despite a strong late surge from their opponents.
A high-calibre event indeed, as 2020 Tokyo Olympian and veteran of four world championships, Nicola Macleod praised the franchise system for its competitive balance.
“I’m so proud of the team,” said Elephants captain Nicola. “Last night we had to play catch up, so we weren’t going to do that again. Being out in front gave us a lot more composure, as you don’t necessarily need to score, you just have to make sure you don’t concede.”
Bronze went to the Buffaloes men’s team with a 13–11 win over the Elephants, while the Lions women claimed a 10–8 victory over the Buffaloes.
Tournament director Siegfried Lokotsch was thrilled with the response.
“The standard of water polo on display and the level of intensity was incredible. I haven’t seen water polo like that in at least 15 years,” he said. “For a first event, the vibe was also fantastic… we got much more support than we anticipated.”
The Winter Series, the first national tournament under South Africa Water Polo (SAWP), also hosted a development clinic for 68 young players. This included those from under-resourced communities. Coached by big names in the water polo fraternity like Lwazi Madi, Kelsey Thomson, and Chad Roman.
It was a weekend of high-intensity action and big wins.
Sources: Supplied
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