Summer 2026 Athlete Exchange: Ontario Water Polo × Water Polo West

Ontario Water Polo and Water Polo West will participate in a reciprocal athlete exchange taking place over two one-week exchanges during the summer of 2026:

• Week 1 (week of July 7, 2026): Ontario athletes travel to Kelowna, British Columbia
• Week 2 (week of August 16, 2026): Water Polo West athletes travel to Ottawa, Ontario

Actual dates will be confirmed in the coming months.

Athletes will train together, participate in structured water polo activities, team-building sessions, and cultural experiences. Accommodation during both weeks will be in hotels or university residences, with appropriate supervision provided throughout the exchange.

Program Purpose

This exchange supports the Women in Sport Sub-Committee’s commitment to:

• Keeping girls engaged and connected to water polo during key retention years
• Providing positive, inclusive development experiences
• Building confidence, leadership, and peer relationships
• Exposing athletes to new environments, coaching styles, and teammates
• Creating memorable experiences that strengthen long-term participation in sport

Who Can Apply

• Female water polo athletes born between 2014-2012
• Currently registered with an Ontario Water Polo club
• Girls interested in learning, team participation, and representing Ontario Water Polo in a
  positive and respectful way

What the Exchange Will Include

• Daily water polo training sessions and scrimmages
• Team-building and social activities
• Cultural and regional experiences
• Accommodation in hotels or university residences
• Supervision by approved coaches and chaperones

This program is supported by Experiences Canada funding, helping to reduce costs and increase accessibility for participants.

Cost & Timeline

• Estimated cost: approximately $2,500 per athlete (final costs will be confirmed once travel and accommodation details are finalized)
• Applications will open in January 2026

Additional information regarding the application process, selection timeline, travel logistics, and detailed schedules will be shared once applications open.

Thank you for your support in sharing this opportunity and for your continued commitment to creating positive, inclusive pathways for girls in water polo.

Sincerely,

Ontario Water Polo
Women in Sport Sub-Committee