Newbies AHMP raring to go in their second full water polo season
Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria (AHMP) first played water polo competitively in mid-2023. These are still early days in the development of the sport at the school, but the girls have embraced water polo and are making strong progress under the guidance of head coach Ronan Perring.
The introduction of the sport at Affies was driven by the interest of the learners, many of whom had been exposed to the sport through their brothers at other schools.
What began as curiosity soon became a movement, with an increasing number of girls requesting that water polo be added to the school’s sports’ portfolio. Their wish was granted, and they haven’t looked back since.
“Since the launch, we’ve hit the ground running,” Perring said. “While we’ve faced our fair share of challenges, the girls have shown incredible determination, persistence, and a willingness to learn. Their progress in such a short time has been nothing short of inspiring.”
Affies began their journey with matches against their neighbours, Pretoria High School for Girls. While early encounters between the senior teams resulted in tough losses, victories by the AHMP junior teams built up early confidence.
In 2024, the team participated in several tournaments, which was another important milestone in their development. At the Inspired Cup, hosted by Reddam House Bedfordview, in October, Affies celebrated their first wins in tournament play. Those victories underscored the team’s growing capabilities and spirit.
Another standout moment came in March this year, at the Reef Cup, at St Stithians College, where Affies beat Pretoria High School for Girls for the first time, claiming a heart-stopping 7-6 victory.
“That victory created a real shift in the team’s mindset, proving to the girls that they can not only compete but also become a force to be reckoned with,” Perring said.
“The girls have adapted incredibly well to the demands of the sport. Even though water polo is new at AHMP, the players have embraced it with passion and dedication. Each week, their skills, teamwork, and understanding of the game improve, and we are proud of how far they’ve come in such a short time.”
Perring said he has found it rewarding to watch his team stand their ground against more established water polo-playing schools: “Competing at tournaments alongside top Gauteng teams has given us exciting moments of growth,” he explained, “from scoring our first goals to celebrating our first wins. Watching their confidence build with every game has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Looking ahead, Affies is eager to continue to build momentum. Their schedule includes competing in the Steyn City Tournament from 26-28 September, which will serve as key preparation for the much-anticipated Inspired Cup at Reddam House Bedfordview, from 16-19 October.
“We’re aiming to field our most competitive team yet,” said Perring. “A lot of preparation is going into these tournaments to ensure we put our best foot forward.
“The Inspired Cup holds special significance for us, and we’re determined to make a strong showing.”
But beyond results and accolades, the heart of the AHMP water polo journey lies in the camaraderie that is found in the game.
“Above all,” Perring concluded, “we are looking forward to the friendships, the fun, and the unforgettable memories that water polo continues to bring.”
