IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND KEY DATES FOR NMB WATER POLO 2025 SEASON

30 January 2025

Dear Parents and Players,

We are excited to announce the plans for the 2025 NMB Water Polo season! This letter contains essential details about trials, key dates, squad training sessions, and upcoming tournaments. Please review the information carefully to ensure all deadlines are met and players are prepared for the season ahead.

Trials

  • Players intending to represent NMB Water Polo in 2025 must complete the capitation form and pay a R 500 capitation fee by Friday, 1 March 2025.
  • The capitation form can be accessed via this link: https://forms.gle/puvv9Dgkz95G4xBJ7. No late registration will be accepted!
  • The bank details can be found below. Please send POP to kyles@jendamark.co.za.
    Name of Account: Nelson Mandela Bay Water Polo Association
    Bank: Standard Bank
    Account Type: Business Current Account
    Account Number: 10233581489
    Branch Code: 051001
    Reference: Player’s Name & Age Group (e.g., John Smith U16A)
  • Players who participated in the A or B teams at the 2024 IPT will automatically qualify for inclusion in the 2025 training squad without the need to attend trials; however, they must complete the required registration form and ensure their annual capitation fees are paid.
  • Trials for new players and those who didn’t make a team in 2024 will be held at the Eco Pool, weather permitting. Girls’ trials are on Saturday 15 March 2025, and boys’ trials are on Sunday 16 March 2025. Details about the times for each age group will be shared in due time.
  • Squads with a total of 40 players will be selected.

 

The selection panel will include:

Boys

  • Siegfried Lokotsch
  • Ridge Snelling
  • Daniel Ward
  • Coach of team

Girls

  • Darryn Campbell
  • Grant Mackenzie
  • Kyle Kumm
  • Coach of team
  • Players selected at the trials will join the training squad for their respective age categories.
  • Once squads are finalized, monthly review and training sessions will be held in May, June, July, and September. These sessions will take place on one Sunday each month, with locations alternating evenly between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown to balance travel requirements. During these sessions, players will complete swim tests and participate in games to assess their fitness and readiness for the squad.
  • Players will be divided into four teams of 10 and will compete against each other over two hours. These sessions will allow us to assess their fitness, readiness for the squad, and versatility by testing them in different positions to identify the strongest team line-up. Specific swim time targets will be set, and players are expected to maintain their fitness levels to meet these benchmarks. Failure to meet the required times will result in disqualification from team eligibility. Targets will be set based on the age category and will include:
    • o 5 x 100 swim test
    • o 5 x 50 swim test
    • o Beep test
  • A coach will be assigned to conduct monthly swim tests in Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown, ensuring players meet the required times.
  • The final trials for boys and girls will be held on Sunday, 7 September 2025. Players will undergo a swim test to meet the specified times, with the remaining time dedicated to gameplay.
  • The final teams for IPT will be selected during the 2nd week of September 2025.

Capping Ceremony

  • The capping ceremony will be planned for Saturday, 25 October 2025.
  • The venue for the capping ceremony will be the Eco Pool, weather permitting.

IPT

  • The SWPSA IPT will take place in Johannesburg from 6-10 December 2025.
  • The following teams will be sent to IPT (boys & girls):
  • U13A
  • U13B
  • U14
  • U15
  • U16
  • U19
  • The teams will consist of 14 players, 1 coach, 1 manager, and 5 non travelling reserves.
  • The coaches will be:

Boys

  • U13A – Meg Rautenbach
  • U13B – TBC
  • U14 – Ridge Snelling
  • U15 – Iman Akomolafe
  • U16 – Seth Harty
  • U19 – Cole Edworthy / Daniel Ward

Girls

  • U13A – Hannah Werth
  • U13B – TBC
  • U14 – TBC
  • U15 – Wade Marshall
  • U16 – Seko Zondani
  • U19 – Grant Mackenzie / Delaine Mentoor
  • Team managers will be selected in September 2025.
  • The estimated cost per player is R 17 500 (breakdown shown below). However, thanks to a generous sponsorship, the cost per player will be reduced to R 13 500.
    • Accommodation and Food (R 7 500)
    • Return Flights to Johannesburg (R 4 400)
    • Transport in Johannesburg (R 2 200)
    • Coaches/Managers/Refs (R 2 200)
    • SWPSA Fees (R 1 200)
  • Please note that these costs are worst-case scenario estimates, and they will not increase. We will make every effort to manage expenses effectively, and any savings will be passed on to the players.

The final costing will be communicated by 30 June 2025.

  • Players selected for a team must pay 75% of IPT fees by 30 September 2025.
  • The balance must be paid by 15 November 2025.
  • NMB Water Polo will play a fixture against Border on Sunday, 23 November 2025.

Kit

  • The kit for the 2025 season will remain the same as last year and can be purchased from Turbo SA.
  • New players who were not part of a team last year and are selected to play in a team this year will be required to purchase the full kit from Turbo SA.
  • Players who were part of the team last year and are again part of the team this year will not be required to purchase new kit, provided their existing kit is still in good condition.
  • The exception to this is players who were in the U16 team last year and are moving up to the U19 team, as they will be required to purchase the U19 costume.

Invitational Tournaments

  • We are strongly considering entering U19 boys’ and girls’ teams into the Gauteng Invitational (3–6 April 2025) and the Cape Town Invitational (9–12 October 2025).
  • These tournaments provide an excellent opportunity for players to gain valuable experience and prepare for IPT, while also enhancing their skills and confidence on a competitive stage.
  • To ensure we field the strongest teams, players from last year’s U19 team will automatically be included, and we will select the best U16 players from last year to join them.
  • To reduce the financial burden on parents, we are actively seeking a sponsor to cover 50% of the costs associated with participating in these events.
  • This investment will help us develop our players and ensure they receive the exposure they need to excel.

Thank you for your continued support as we prepare for the upcoming season. We understand the financial commitment involved, and we want to assure you that we are doing everything we can to keep costs manageable while providing the best possible experience for the players.

We are also excited to be working on a player development programme that will support the growth and progression players. More information on this initiative will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

For your convenience, you will find a calendar on the next page with important dates for easy reference.

Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to an exciting and successful season ahead!

SIEGFRIED LOKOTSCH

CHAIRMAN

Parent/Guardian Agreement

Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo Parent/Guardian Agreement

As a parent or guardian of a player representing Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo, you play a critical role in supporting your child’s growth, fostering team spirit, and upholding the values of the organization. By signing this agreement, you acknowledge your responsibilities and commitment to the team’s success and well-being.

Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

1. Support and Encouragement

  • Encourage your child to do their best in both training and competitions.
  • Focus on their effort and improvement rather than solely on outcomes or wins.
  • Celebrate their achievements while teaching them to handle setbacks with resilience.

2. Respect for Coaches and Officials

  • Show respect for coaches, referees, and officials during games and practices.
  • Trust the decisions of coaches regarding player selection, team strategies, and game management.
  • Avoid confronting coaches or officials during matches or training sessions; address concerns in private, at an appropriate time.

3. Positive Role Modeling

  • Demonstrate good sportsmanship by supporting all players, not just your child.
  • Refrain from using abusive language, making derogatory remarks, or engaging in aggressive behavior toward players, officials, or other parents.
  • Maintain a positive attitude that aligns with the values of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo.

4. Communication

  • Keep the coaching staff informed of any personal, medical, or scheduling issues affecting your child’s participation.
  • Respond promptly to communications from the team or organization.
  • Raise concerns respectfully with team leadership, using official communication channels.

5. Commitment to Team Values

  • Ensure your child attends all practices, games, and tournaments, barring emergencies or prior arrangements with the coach.
  • Reinforce the importance of discipline, respect, and teamwork in your child’s participation.
  • Promote inclusivity and respect for all team members, regardless of background or ability.

6. Financial Responsibility

  • Fulfill financial obligations related to team participation, including registration fees, tournament costs, and any other agreed-upon expenses.
  • Notify the organization in advance if you experience difficulties in meeting financial commitments to explore possible solutions.

7. Safety and Welfare

  • Ensure your child is well-prepared for training and matches, including proper hydration, nutrition, and appropriate gear.
  • Inform the coaching staff of any medical conditions or injuries that may impact your child’s participation.
  • Cooperate with the organization’s efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all players.

Acknowledgment and Agreement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understood this Parent/Guardian Agreement. I agree to adhere to the guidelines and expectations outlined herein and to support my child and the team in a positive and respectful manner.

Player’s Name: _________________________
Parent/Guardian Name: _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

Additional Parent/Guardian Name (if applicable): _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

NMB Water Polo Indemnity

Information to follow…

Player Code of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo

Last updated: June 2 2026 · Version 1.0

As a representative of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo, each player is expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, both in and out of the pool. By following this Player Code of Conduct, you contribute to the spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect that defines our organisation.

1. Respect

  • Respect your teammates, coaches, opponents, referees, and all officials at all times.
  • Value the contributions of every team member and foster a supportive environment.
  • Handle disagreements calmly and with maturity, allowing coaches or team leaders to mediate if necessary.

2. Sportsmanship

  • Demonstrate fair play and integrity during games, practices, and tournaments.
  • Accept decisions made by referees without complaint or confrontation.
  • Celebrate victories with humility and accept defeats with grace, always learning from the experience.

3. Commitment

  • Attend all practices, matches, and tournaments as scheduled, unless excused by a coach.
  • Be punctual and come prepared with the necessary equipment and mindset.
  • Give 100% effort during training sessions and games to improve your skills and contribute to the team.

4. Communication

  • Inform coaches in advance if you cannot attend a practice or match.
  • Approach coaches with questions, concerns, or feedback in a respectful manner.
  • Maintain open and respectful communication with teammates and parents.

5. Discipline

  • Adhere to team rules, schedules, and directives from coaches and staff.
  • Avoid unsportsmanlike behaviour, including foul language, aggressive actions, or inappropriate gestures.
  • Refrain from engaging in behaviours that could damage the reputation of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo.

6. Representation

  • Wear the team uniform with pride and present yourself as a positive ambassador of the team.
  • Represent Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo with dignity, both at events and in the community.
  • Use social media responsibly, ensuring that any posts about the team or teammates reflect positively on the organisation.

7. Inclusivity

  • Welcome and support players of all backgrounds and abilities, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
  • Participate in programs that encourage younger or less experienced players to grow in the sport.

8. Health and Safety

  • Prioritise your physical and mental well-being by staying hydrated, eating healthily, and getting adequate rest.
  • Inform your coach of any injuries or conditions that may affect your ability to participate.
  • Follow all safety guidelines provided during training and matches.

9. Anti-Bullying and Harassment

  • Treat everyone with kindness and respect, refraining from any form of bullying, harassment, or exclusion.
  • Report any incidents of bullying or harassment to a coach or trusted adult immediately.

10. Accountability

  • Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on the team.
  • Accept constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth.
  • Always strive to be the best version of yourself, on and off the field.

Acknowledgment

By signing this document, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to adhere to the Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo Player Code of Conduct. I understand that failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the team.

Player’s Name: _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name (if under 18): _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________