Over the weekend, water polo players took part in the CARIFTA 2025 Aquatics Championships trials, vying for a spot on the first Cayman teams to be sent to the competition.
The trials kicked off 13 Sept. at Governors Beach, when 28 athletes hit the water, allowing coaches to select the final squads to represent Cayman at the 38th edition of the championships, scheduled for 7-9 Nov. at Coral Springs Aquatic Centre in Florida.
“Athletes must be registered with a local club like Cayman Aqualife Academy and they must attend an agreed amount of training sessions, trials and team events to meet the selection criteria,” said Grant Ferguson, Cayman water polo head coach.
During the trials, athletes’ technical skills, physical fitness, teamwork and past performances were assessed.
“The process promotes diversity, with wildcard spots for emerging talent,” said Ferguson about the trials.
The Cayman delegation is set to compete in the under-16 girls’, under-19 girls’ and under-19 boys’ divisions.
“This is a huge step forward for our programme. The players have worked incredibly hard, and now they’ll get the chance to represent Cayman against some of the best in the region and beyond,” said Ferguson.
Following the trials, players are set to travel to Orlando, Florida, for the Nightmare on I-Drive Tournament from 3–5 Oct.
Ferguson says this international competition “promises tough matches and valuable experience against strong US teams”.
