Brisbane Water Polo Series will be precursor to Tokyo Olympics

You can expect an epic clash between old rivals in January 2020 when Brisbane hosts two International Water Polo Test Matches between Australia and the USA. These matches will be major events leading-up to the 2020 Olympic Games  in Tokyo as they headline the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships (AYWPC). The 2019 AYWP Championships were held over two weeks earlier this year which brought over 3000 competitors to Brisbane venues.

The International matches were secured through a partnership between Tourism and Events Queensland and Brisbane Marketing. Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said today’s announcement was proof of Brisbane’s International reputation as a world-class host for major events like this.

“Events like these support tourism jobs in our state,” she said. “Water polo has a strong international following. This event won’t only bring thousands of people to Brisbane. The flow-on for local businesses will be great. The world class facilities and renowned lifestyle we have here in Brisbane is certainly a selling point for participants and spectators. At the moment, all eyes are on Queensland. Hosting this major Olympic lead-up event will be another chance to show what Queensland is capable of hosting on the world stage. To boast two headlining test matches is a coup on its own. The government has a clear strategy to secure events that attract visitors, supporting our tourism industry and local jobs”.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said that Brisbane will have a vibrant festival atmosphere for the water polo competitors, fans, and family members . “Brisbane is a destination for the whole family, and I encourage the competitors and spectators visiting our city to take advantage of our fantastic tourism offerings,” he said.

Brisbane local and triple Olympian Bron Knox said that fans will be in for a real treat, as the rivalry between the USA and Australian teams always seemed to deliver something special. “Australia and the USA are both strong performers on the world stage throughout women’s water polo history,” Ms. Knox said. “We always tend to meet the USA in big games, semis, or finals, and this naturally builds rivalry. Local sports fans should come along as it’s an opportunity to see some of the best athletes in the sport gearing up for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.”

Australia vs USA Test Matches 
Dates: 14 and 18 January 2019
Location: Brisbane Aquatic Centre
Tickets: Available here.

Australian Youth Water Polo Championships
Dates: 11 – 23 January 2019
Locations: Brisbane Aquatic Centre, Valley Pool, All Hallows, Sommerville House, Stuartholme
Tickets: Available here.

Source: Press Release

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