Diamond Cup tradition reignited

The fledgling Tairāwhiti water polo team went down to Hawke’s Bay in the first rematch of the Diamond Cup for water polo in 60 years at the weekend but they made a match of it. (from left) Sam Gladwin, Zyden Worsnop, Austin Matthews, Sam Rob, Leona McArdle, Matthew Pickering, Kilian Boos, Dan Haverty, James Starnes, Jose Castaño, and Diego Castaño (in front). Picture supplied

WATERPOLO

The Diamond Cup for water polo went on the line for the first time in 60 years between Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay in the Hawke’s Bay Regional Aquatic Centre at the weekend.

“It was awsome to see this tradition reignited,” said Gisborne’s water polo “revivor” Matthew Pickering.

“Tairāwhiti fielded a team of youth, age and experience with a number making their debut at such a level.

“After four full-on and fun quarters, Hawke’s Bay came out on top 24-8.”

Tairāwhiti captain James Starnes summed it up afterwards.

“Well done team. It was a hell of a match and the result does not reflect the game really, considering we have such fresh new players,” he told his team mates.

“This is a great moment in time for the new Tairāwhiti club as we continue to develop the sport in the region for all.  We look forward to many future games with Hawke’s Bay across all age groups.”

Starnes offered big thanks to Hawke’s Bay water polo for organising and hosting the event.

“Thank you also to our generous club sponsors Iconiq Group and Delfina Sport, who have been part of our journey so far.”

The new Gisborne club now has school water polo happening on Sundays at the Kiwa Pools, with students from Boys’ and Girls’ High High, Campion College, Lytton and Sonrise Christian School.

“Small starts but we are building momentum,” Pickering said.