Kamloops Regional Development Camp

The Water Polo West Kamloops Regional Development Camp, held October 17–19, 2025 at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, brought together athletes, coaches, and parents from across British Columbia’s Interior for a weekend of high-energy training, learning, and community building.

Adult Try-It Session Kicks Off the Weekend

The weekend opened with a lively Adult Try-It Water Polo session, where local players — some new to the sport and others returning after years away — jumped into the pool for a fun and welcoming introduction. Among those joining in was Cecily Jonker, a former member of the Junior Women’s National Team (2003), who came out to help grow water polo in Kamloops and reconnect with the game. The energy on deck was contagious as new and returning players scrimmaged and learned the basics together.

Saturday Focuses on Skill Development and Coaching Education

Saturday featured a full day of development for 14U and 16U/18U athletes led by Branko Pekovic, Head Coach for Team BC and an Olympian with the Serbian Men’s National Team. Pekovic’s international experience and professional background brought world-class instruction to the camp, with sessions emphasizing defensive awareness, transitions, and advanced passing and shooting skills.

Pekovic was joined by an exceptional group of BC coaches including Kristen Smart (Head Coach, Kelowna Water Polo Club), Sarah Lauman (Vernon Water Polo Club), and Ben Halsall (Kelowna Water Polo Club). Together they led athletes through dynamic drills, teamwork exercises, and specialized goalkeeper sessions focused on positioning and reaction.

Running alongside the athlete sessions was Water Polo Canada’s Community Sport Coach Course, led by Evan Andrews, an international referee and high-performance coach educator and Patrick Geary, Water Polo West's newest Learning Facilitator. Coaches and parents from Kelowna and Vernon participated, gaining valuable on-deck experience and mentorship. Many had the opportunity to immediately apply their learning during Saturday’s practices, creating a strong connection between theory and real-world coaching.

Sunday Builds Pathways to Team BC and Beyond

Sunday wrapped up the weekend with continued athlete development through the National Development Centre (NDC) program. Players from across the Interior and Lower Mainland took part in sessions designed to prepare them for Team BC and national-level competition.

Growing Water Polo Across the BC Interior

The Kamloops Regional Development Camp highlighted the enthusiasm and collaboration driving the sport’s growth in the region. With elite coaches mentoring new ones, parents getting involved, and athletes eager to improve, the event showcased the momentum of water polo in the BC Interior.

“It was amazing to see so many athletes and coaches working together to build water polo in the Interior,” said one organizer. “The energy on deck was incredible — everyone left feeling inspired and connected.”

 Water Polo West extends its sincere thanks to viaSport and the Province of British Columbia for their support through the Provincial Sport Development Grant.