All that you have to do to play for Orlando Waterpolo is become a YMCA member and be an active member of USWP. The YMCA has brought us under their wings and has given us the pool space and equipment we need to have a club. Below are some frequently asked questions about our team.
Q: Can you tell me more about the history of Orlando Water Polo?
A: Yes. Team name and host facility changes aside, OWP began in 1986. Please follow this link to learn more about us:
Q: Can anyone play for Orlando Water Polo Club?
A: Yes. We require no prior water polo experience, although it helps to be at least a decent swimmer. Our roster of approximately 30-40 members includes players of all ages (mostly post-college), both genders (mostly male) and skill levels. Members must keep current with dues and USWP membership to participate.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: All you need is a YMCA membership. If you do not have a YMCA membership, you can pay $5 a practice at the front desk
OWP athletes must join USA Water Polo (https://webpoint.usawaterpolo.com/wp/memberships/join.asp ). (Our USWP club # is 18037.) There are several annual membership options that start at $60. USWP membership benefits include practice and event insurance, Scoreboard subscription and supports development at the grassroots and Olympic levels.
We charge for tournaments based on participation. As an example, if 10 players compete in a tournament with a $300 entry fee they all owe $30. Individuals also pay for housing, transportation, food, etc.
Q: When are practices? How often do you practice?
A: Orlando Water Polo practices 2 times in a normal week:
· Monday: 7-9PM
· Wednesday: 7-9PM
Q: Where do you practice?
A: We practice at the YMCA Aquatic Center on International Drive. OWP is just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando and convenient to I-4.
Q: How long is your season
A: We practice and compete year round.
Q: How many tournaments do you play each year?
A: Orlando Water Polo is one of the most active teams South. We average approximately 6 tournaments a year. Tournament we regularly attend are below:
January - Knights Invitational – Orlando, FL
March/April – Spring in the Swamp – Gainesville, FL
May – Cinco de Mayo – St. Pete, FL
June – Sunshine State Games – Florida rotating site
August – Powerbar – Atlanta, GA
October – Central Florida Men’s Halloween Tournament – Orlando, FL (Host)
OWP rarely “limits” a tournament roster. This means any OWP athlete who wants to compete in a tournament may do so as long as space permits. We may enter multiple teams if there is enough interest.
Q: How good is Orlando Water Polo?
A: Orlando Water Polo stays very competitive in the State of Florida. We win about 3/4 of the games we play. We have finished in the top 4 in three of our tournaments this year.
