Angie Winstanley-Smith, at the helm of the women’s National Team of New Zealand, has a remarkable water polo journey. Her own Olympic experience includes competing for Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games, a historic moment as it marked the inaugural Olympic appearance for the British women’s water polo team.
Transitioning to coaching, Winstanley-Smith has been steering the New Zealand women’s team since 2017, tirelessly working to elevate their performance. A testament to her coaching prowess was evident at the 2022 World Championships in Budapest, where she guided her youthful New Zealand squad to their first top-ten finish in 28 years.
Winstanley-Smith’s impact on the New Zealand national team is nothing short of miraculous, especially considering the challenges posed by resource constraints. Nevertheless, her efforts are yielding tangible results, with the overall level of water polo in New Zealand experiencing significant improvement. With the momentum gained, participation in the 2032 Olympics now stands as a distinct and promising possibility for New Zealand on the international water polo stage.
+1 Pt | Anni Espar (ESP)
Spanish National Team Player. Club: Mataro. Position: Driver
Again, over 10 years as a key member of a hugely successful Miki Oca Spanish team. Time and time again Ani puts up world class performances. She would play 80% of all games, provide cover in many positions and offer a sense of calm in offence and discipline in defence. Any team in the world would have Ani. A true legend of the game and has been key for the Spanish consistency over the last 10 years.
+2 Pts | Elena Ruiz (ESP)
Spanish National Team Player. Club: Sant Andreu. Position: Driver
For someone so young to have that amount of composure is uncanny. Huge huge goals in the semi Vs Aussie in Fukuoka- taking it in her stride like she has 10+ years experience. Her ability to finish and shot selection from the outside is nothing short of extraordinary.
+3 Pts | Tilly Kearns (AUS)
Australia National Team Player. Club: USC. Position: Centre-forward/h4> Huge season from Tilly has evolved immensely over the last 12 months. A leader for the Aussies but also a leader in women’s sport. She is doing great things to publicise women’s water polo and women’s sport in general.
+4 Pts | Roberta Bianconi (ITA)
Italian National Team Player. Club: Rapallo. Position: Winger
The comeback kid. I remember playing Roberta over 10 years ago in London where she was a key player then. To be a key player for over 10 years for your country and lead this new look Italian side under Silipo is nothing short of incredible. Came up clutch in the bronze match with key goals and key moments. Cool calm leader under pressure!
WP 30+ Masters Tournament
The perfect excuse for an unforgettable vacation.
