Dunfermline Waterpolo Club Archive News 2007

31 Dec 07	Bonus Ball Winner Well done to Iain Thomson, the winner of the December bonus ball competition.
24 Dec 07	Bagpacking Success Well done to all the volunteers who helped out at the bagpacking yesterday. The total raised was £1060.29! Thanks especially to Zach for organising it all.
22 Dec 07	Bagpacking at Marks and Spencers Message from Zach: I have finalised the rota for tomorrows bag packing. all those with polo club t-shirts are asked to wear them and if possible are asked if they could leave their top once they have completed their slot as it looks better if everyone is wearing club kit. however on a lighter note all those who wish to wear a Santa hat or reindeer antlers may also do so. please arrive promptly and on time and remember to sign in at the hamper counter for safety reasons. hope to see you all there, thanks. Zach Thomson
19 Dec 07	Club Anniversary Meal This has been booked for the 2nd of February at The Queensferry Hotel. It will be a sit down meal with disco after. Unfortunately it is over 14's only but it is open to anyone else. See Julia MacKay about tickets.
17 Dec 07	Christmas Night out Message from Stewart All, I think we discussed getting a wee get together between Christmas and New Year to celebrate the year's successes. We toyed with the idea of a Christmas meal, but felt this would happen generically (see below), and decided instead to meet for a night out in "the Toon" on 28 December. All members of Caley and Dunfy are welcome, and I have it on good authority that everyone will be put up, if desired. The proposal is that we meet at the Seven Kings between 8 and 8.30. If you don't know how to get there, get a map (http://www.multimap.com/maps/?hloc=GB\|KY12 8DA#t=l&map=56.07136,-3.46463\|15\|4&loc=GB:56.07136:-3.46463:15\|KY12 8DA\|KY12 8DA ) and don't use sat-nav! I have it on good authority from Calum, that the team Christmas meal will happen immediately after this at 2am on 29th December in Pizza Boy or Aldos, whichever has a smaller queue. Let me know if you're interested so that we don't leave anyone behind Cheers, Stewart
16 Dec 07	Messages from Secretary ANNUAL FUN NIGHT ================ Please note that the annual Fun night for all especially Parents, will be held at 8pm - 9.30pm on Tuesday 18 December. Fun matches and aquatic American football will be the highlights. All members (incl Seniors) are invited to attend. RAFFLE ====== The draw will made during the training session on Thursday 20 December 2007 - remember to hand all tickets / cash back by the start of the session at 8.30pm BAG PACKING =========== This takes place on Sunday 23rd December at Marks & Spencer. As many members and parents to look after the youngsters are required to maximise our efforts. Contact Iain Thomson if you can help on the day. RESTART ======= The Club restarts on Sunday 6 January 2008 at 5.30pm. DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE =========================== In the new East District Development League we shall have members playing for the Club and for InCAS, who are forming a Water polo team for the first time with our assistance. Warrender and Menzieshill will also be playing in the league which will run from February until June and offer real competition for our large squad of young players. Squad lists (InCAS members have still to be added) are attached along with the home dates. It is likely that our younger players may only participate in DWPC vs InCAS matches where we can control the relevant standards of players during the match to ensure that there is no mismatch. Team Coaches will select the players for each match and a full schedule will be issued when dates from Warrender & Menzieshill have been obtained. Having Swimming and Water polo Clubs working together does not happen very often in Scottish Swimming and we thank InCAS for their help in increasing the competitive environment. Training on Tuesday match nights will proceed as normal with the match commencing at 9pm - members and parents are encouraged to come along and support the teams and create a good environment for the kids to perform in. Table Officials will also be required to assist (it is not difficult) and volunteers should give their names to any of the Managers or Jeanette Metcalfe - if we want the kids to learn how to use the timing equipment to best effect we need operators for it !!!
11 Dec 07	Xmas Raffle Our annual Christmas Raffle will be drawn on Thursday 20th December at training. Please try and sell as many tickets as you can. Tickets are available at training sessions (ten books per family). If you haven't got yours yet, please try and get them at the next session. Also the list for the hamper is on the noticeboard. Please have a look and see what is still needed.
10 Dec 07	District Sports Awards The Club are represented in three categories in the Annual District Sports council awards which will be announced on 6th February 2008. Sports Personality - Alasdair Campbell. Asda Trophy - Andrew Woodall. Benny Hutton team award - DWPC 17 & under team. Congratulations to all for their nominations.
06 Dec 07	Win for Dunfermline Dunfermline are through to the final of the Scottish youth cup defeating Warrender 10-7 in a closely fought match against older and much stronger opponents. Dunfermline's scorers were Christopher Campbell - 4; Darren Campbell - 3; Zach Thomson, Andrew Melville & Toni Bonnar 1 each. We now meet Menzieshill in the final early next year.
04 Dec 07	News from Secretary EAST DISTRICT LEAGUE (2008) - =========================== A Junior East District league (1993+) will be run during 2008 which we will enter two teams with Warrender also entering a joint team with Portobello. Our home matches will take place on a Tuesday evening at 9pm (after training!) with each team playing each other twice initially. Squad lists and some fixtures will be announced shortly (no transfers will be allowed) and it is planned that all the girls will play in the same squad to encourage their development into a team. To allow this to take place a Manager and Coach is required for each of the teams, I shall not be coaching any of these development teams to allow others to step forward although I will be lending assistance as required - anyone interested should contact me - if no-one steps forward unfortunately we shall likely be unable to compete which would represent a missed opportunity for all our young players ! It will mainly be a development league giving all players the opportunity to play (everyone playing part of each match will also be one of the rules), over age players will also be allowed dependent on their standard and over age goalkeepers will also be allowed although restricted to half pond passing. With few opportunities in the Scottish system for young players to play against each other this East District initiative is one which the Club are happy to support and encourage. MEMBERSHIP FEES 2008 - ===================== Reminder that these are now due and can be paid to the treasurer. CLUB VACANCIES - ============== Good news on the Committee vacancy front with Iain Thomson confirming his intention to continue as overall Junior Team Manager and Robert Tate volunteering to take on the Press & Publicity role. These are both subject to approval at the next Committee meeting. With Chris Woodall also taking on the fund-raising post from 1 January 2008 this gives the Club the opportunity to start moving forward. Volunteers for the positions of Club President, Coach and Captain are still awaited - come on down and take on the post !!!! COMMITTE MEETING - ================ The next meeting of the Committee will be at my house on Wednesday 12 December 2007 commencing at 7.30pm RETIRING SWIMMERS - ================= At this time of year many young swimmers (11+) take the decision to retire, if you know of anyone considering this why not encourage then to come along and try Water polo.
29 Nov 07	Bagpacking News Firstly I would like to thank all of those who helped out at the bag packing, M&S on Saturday. It was a great success for the club with a total of £840.74 raised and thanks is also due to M&S for their support of the club and also their customers for their donations. After this great success we have been offered another bag packing day on Sunday 23^rd December (which is thought will be an extremely busy day as it is so close to xmas). So again I am looking for volunteers to help. I know that we have only just finished with one day but this is an opportunity we can’t miss! However this time I will need a lot more volunteers (YES THAT MEANS SENIORS TOO) due to how busy the shop is expected to be. Any one who could help with the day should let me know on 01383 727397 or email iainandlornathomson@tiscali.co.uk Once again thank you to all those who volunteered before… I hope to see you and more next time. Thank you. Remember if we don’t fundraise then the fees WILL go up. Zach Thomson
25 Nov 07	Bonus Ball Winner Well done to Sandy Fraser, the winner of the November bonus ball competition.
25 Nov 07	Secretaries Messages from AGM Please find attached the Minutes of the recent AGM. Should you have any corrections and / or amendments to these Minutes please reply by return, your comments will be retained for next year's AGM. As you will note a number of positions remain vacant which, unless we receive volunteers to fill the positions, will have a direct negative effect on the progress of the Club next year as these positions are unlikely to be covered by the other committee members. You will also note that our Treasurer, Roddy Mackay, will be stepping down next year. Without a Treasurer the Club cannot function and pool bookings would have to be cancelled, to avoid this it would be preferable to identify a new Treasurer as early as possible, if anyone is interested please advise Roddy Mackay. The lack of a President and Club Captain also seriously hampers our development as both these Club officials should be working towards pulling the various ideas and plans together in addition to identifying new talent to manage the Club and encourage members. With Alan Donaldson also stepping down as Club Coach from Easter 2008 coaching cover will be required for all Senior sessions, senior players should consider how to manage this situation from Easter 2008. Please step forward if you are interested in filling any of the vacant positions. ************************************** The AGM of the East District takes place at Boroughmuir Rugby Club on Thursday 6 December 2007 at 7pm. Three delegates from the Club are allowed to attend and volunteers are requested, at present we have o-one attending. A copy of the AGM information is available from the Secretary on request.
25 Nov 07	Club Anniversary Celebration It is proposed to hold a 25yr anniversary event possibly on the evening of 19 January 2008. Although Julia Mackay has volunteered to organise the event she cannot do this alone and additional volunteers are required to assist her, she would also appreciate any suggestions on format etc. please reply to the secretary who will pass them onto Julia or speak to her at a Senior session.
25 Nov 07	Bagpacking Results Yesterdays total from the bag packing at M&S was £840.74. i would like to thank every one who helped out with both supervising and bagpacking throughout the day. a huge thanks also has to go to all the staff and customers at Marks and Spencers for all their support and generousity, which is greatly appreciated. Well Done every one!! Zach Thomson

25 Aug 07	Visitors The Club entertain 1st Leven Boys Brigade again on Tuesday 28 August during our normal session at the Carnegie Centre (8-9pm). The session will be a series of matches, Players should arrive promptly to allow teams to be selected. Volunteer referees / coaches are requested and should sufficient members be available it would be good to use the timing equipment as well.
23 Aug 07	*Latest from Coach Greenhouse* at Lindenwood** "Brian-Outstanding!!!! - This afternoon we had out first official water polo practice. Ali did superb. Great attitude as well as as very, very good listener. All qualities I stress and weave into my water polo practices. Congratulations on your fantastic parenting skills." Coach Greenhouse
23 Aug 07	HMS Caledonia HMS Caledonia has re-opened after the closure for maintenance. Training on Monday will be on as normal (8-9pm)
23 Aug 07	Plans for the Carnegie Centre Myself and Alan Donaldson, on behalf of the Club, have been invited to meet with Wendy Watson of Fife Council next week to discuss the plans for the Carnegie Centre and have learned that Fife Council are also meeting with Scottish Swimming representatives on Friday 24 August 2007. We have passed information on our hopes for the Carnegie Centre to Richard Gordon of Scottish Swimming in advance of this meeting. The proposed works are currently at the planning stage therefore there may be the opportunity to lobby for an all deep training pool which would be of great benefit to our Players. It is now also likely that the pool will not close until after next summer due to the time required to complete the design and place a contract for the works. The Club are pleased to be involved at this early stage in the re-design of the Carnegie Centre and members will be kept updated via the web site. B.M.Campbell
22 Aug 07	SWPC Meeting tomorrow If you have any items to bring up at the Scottish Water Polo Meeting tomorrow contact Richie Metcalfe or Roddy Mackay.
22 Aug 07	Aberdeen bid for 50m Pool News item on Aberdeen Council's search for backing for new 50m pool. Stewart Carlile
22 Aug 07	Ali off to Missouri After leaving Edinburgh for Amsterdam this morning at 6am Ali arrived safely at St Louis (via Detroit) at around 10.25pm tonight (Tuesday). The family saw him off this morning at 4.30am ! note below from Ali's new coach. "I picked Ali up safely at St. Louis airport yesterday afternoon. Ali, & three of my other incoming Freshmen & parents visited last night. As a matter of fact Ali spent the night with another Freshmen & his family in a very nice hotel in St. Charles right by Lindenwood University. Last night I took all 3 boys to the Indoor Pool at St. Charles Family YMCA for a 90 minutes swim they all seemed to bond immediately & enjoy each others company. I believe 18 year olds have more in common than Adults and it showed last night. This morning they start their Freshmen Activity week/check-in at 8:00 A.M. (2pm Dunfermline time). I am meeting all the Freshmen Water Polo players at 12:30 P.M. for First Official Water Polo Practice. (14 Freshmen)." Coach Greenhouse
19 Aug 07	HMS Caledonia still closed I have just been advised that the Caledonia pool chlorine levels have not yet returned to safe levels as quickly as expected after last week's maintenance and cleaning. The pool with not be open until tomorrow earliest and therefore our session tonight has been cancelled. Richie Metcalfe
18 Aug 07	Deadline extended for Water Polo Conference booking The new deadline for booking up for the National Water Polo Conference is Friday 24 August
17 Aug 07	Alasdair's 'farewell' Alasdair's 'farewell' Barbeque will go ahead tomorrow from 5pm irrespective of the weather - members & friends of Ali welcome.
17 Aug 07	HMS Caledonia Re-opens on Saturday after a maintenance shut down last week so training returns to normal on Monday evenings.
16 Aug 07	World Student Games - Bangkok GB took 12th place in the Games water polo when they lost 9-17 to Russia. GB won the first quarter then lost each of the other 3 (4-3; 1-3; 2-6; 2-5). This was a bit disappointing after bright early performances, especially considering this was the national senior squad.
14 Aug 07	World Student Games - Bangkok GB lost a tight game against Australia by 5-6 then dropped further in the rankings with a 6-9 defeat by Turkey.
11 Aug 07	World Student Games - Bangkok GB lost their first game 7-13 to Serbia in the Preliminaries. Japan beat South Africa in the other match in Group B. Better news in second match when GB beat Japan 9-8. A 16-7 win over RSA completed their Group games and they took 2nd place behind unbeaten Serbia and move to the Classification round for places 1-12 on Tuesday.
10 Aug 07	Scottish Swimming SplashNews The latest edition of SplashNews is being prepared. It would be great to start having regular features from all disciplines. Please forward any article, story, update on squads, training, club news, etc. to me as soon as possible, ideally by 20^th August. Kirsten Baker, Marketing & Communications Manager
09 Aug 07	SWPC Meeting Agenda and previous minutes have been issued for next meeting due on 23 August
08 Aug 07	East District Centenary Celebrations The details have been circulated for the Evening Reception as part of the Centenary Celebrations. The event will take place on Friday 5 October, 7-11p.m. at Boroughmuir Rugby Club. Tickets are £20 each (Early Bird booked before 7 September £17.50p.
07 Aug 07	Scottish Swimming UKCC Courses Kate Lodge, the new Education Manager, announces the launch of Scottish Swimming’s new SQA/UKCC teaching and coaching qualifications for aquatics in Scotland which will be available from 1^st September 2007. Details and forms are available from the Downloads section of the Scottish Swimming website. Bursaries will be available - see Downloads section
06 Aug 07	GB Youth Women lose again GB girls completed their Group D matches with a 3-13 loss to Hungary in Greece.
06 Aug 07	HMS Caledonia closed No training TONIGHT nor Monday 13th August - Secretary not available to send out email so spread the word re closure
05 Aug 07	GB in Bulgaria GB's last game ended in defeat, going down 3 - 7 to Macedonia. Scorer's: Daniel Barker - 1; Stuart Fennell - 1; Ciaran James - 1. GB missed 2 out of 3 penalties in this game, not too sure if it would have affected the outcome of the game though!. Ali Campbell
05 Aug 07	European Youth Women's Championships The championships started today in Chania, Greece. GB lost 3-12 to the hosts this evening
04 Aug 07	GB update from Ali "Got some info on the tourney happening just now in Bulgaria that Andrew Woodall and Lewis Don are playing in: 1st Game V Serbia. Lost 15 - 3. First half score - 10 - 1. Second half 5 - 2. Scorer's: Ciaran James - 1, Stuart Fennell - 2. Ciaran James and Elliot Kelly both got wrapped. 2nd Game V Bulgaria. Lost 12 - 10. Scorer's: Dean Smith - 5, Daniel Barker - 2, Ciaran James - 2, Tom Richmond - 1. Tom Richmond is also the captain. GB had 9 men up but only managed to score 1! (same old story!) 3rd Game V Austria. Won 11 - 6. Scorer's: Daniel Barker - 2, Tom Richmond - 2, Chris Armstrong, Stuart Fennell, Matthew Little, Dean Smith, Scott Martin all got 1 goal each. Andrew Woodall and Lewis Don both scored 1 goal each - their first for GB. Their last game is against Macedonia."
03 Aug 07	Pool -time problems ahead The Secretary has been informed that Fife Council are to go ahead with their Leisure & recreation plans. This means that Carnegie Centre will close for refurbishment in April 2008 for 18 months. Pool time will be at a premium and it is not clear yet whether Fife Council will be giving assistance to the clubs in organising alternatives.
02 Aug 07	GB lose first match in Diana Cup in Bulgaria "GB lost 3-15 to Serbia but everyone was happy with the way the team performed in its first ever game together. Andrew felt he played well and had some great scraps in the pit" Chris Woodall - Chris posted this on the Message Board which is best way to get results posted quickly, especially if I am not on hand to update News. Good thinking Chris.
02 Aug 07	Message Board Probably due to the holidays, our Message Board has made a slow start but we now have contributions to several topics. Still looking for more contributions and new topics.
02 Aug 07	HMS Caledonia closure "Due to Deep Chlorination / Cleaning the swimming pool will be closed from Mon 13th Aug until Friday 17th Aug 07. The PT Staff apologise for any inconvenience this essential maintenance may cause".
02 Aug 07	National Academy Training Camp at Millfield 15 Players from the Scottish RTC are attending the National Academy Training Camp at Millfield from the 5th to 10th of August. 11 of these are from DWPC (2 Girls and 9 Boys) with the other 4 representing Menzieshill Whitehall (2 Girls & 2 Boys). A further 3 Adults are attending as Team Managers (2 DWPC & 1 M-W). DWPC : Girls - Kerry Falconer; Nicola Tate. Boys - Chris Campbell; Darren Campbell; Edward Haroun; Jake Hinley; Andrew Melville; Joe Thomson; Zach Thomson; Craig Wilkinson; Jordan Wood Menzieshill Whitehall : Girls - Kirsti Adams; Cara Brown. Boys - Logan Shepherd ; Lee Clark.
01 Aug 07	Sounds like a blast Water Polo Planet invites players, coaches, club teams and referees to the 2008 Duel In The Pool Serbia, a 12 day elite water polo Camp, Festival and International Tournament to be held 18-30 June 2008 in Obrenovac, Serbia.
29 Jul 07	Finalists from Four Continents Hungary, Australia, China and USA won through to the semi-finals of the Junior Women's World Championships. Australia and China won the semis and contested the Final. The final classification was - 1st Australia : 2nd China : 3rd Hungary : 4th USA : 5th Italy : 6th Spain : 7th Netherlands : 8th New Zealand : 9th Russia : 10th Canada :11th Japan : 12th Germany : 13th Greece : 14th Puerto Rico : 15th Brazil : 16th Portugal Report from the Mackays : "Just been watching the final day's games. Spain and Italy played out a very close match which Italy edged in extra time. Both teams possibly played their better polo at earlier stages but nevertheless the standard of play particularly in defence was of a high standard, hence the close score. Hungary and USA again also played out a close match with Hungary's much more physical approach eventually enabling them to secure 3rd place with a 10-8 victory in extra time. USA defence was particularly strong, but the disappointment must be Hungary's lack of all round skill and imagination, purely sticking to the physical approach. Yesterday Australia ran out easy victors against Hungary because of their all round speed of their game, particularly in the choice of tactics and shooting ability.China were clearly the dark horses in this tournament but they rightfully gained their place in the final with a strong performance against the USA. In today's final China matched Australia until the final quarter of the match when Gemma Beadsworth's superior ability enable her to grab 3 goals at crucial moments, thus securing Australia's win. China will clearly will be looking for a place in Beijing in next year. It was good to see that the final was well supported by many of the teams participating. The award for the top goalkeeper went to China and top scorers were a player from Japan and Gemma Beadsworth from Australia. It was nice to see that 4 European teams were in the top 8, which suggests that they have raised their game to a higher standard but still have a bit to do to seriously challenge Australia, China and the USA. Now on with the remains of the holiday."
27 Jul 07	7th FINA Junior Women's World Championships Our correspondents in Porto, Portugal - Roddy, Sylvia and Julia Mackay - are enjoying the water polo and send this report:- "Thought we would give you a quick report from our viewpoint. Last night we saw the best game so far when Spain beat Canada - probably against the form prediction. Canada may well have been a bit too sure of getting a result and got off to a flying start with a goal on their first attack, however Spain settled and finished the quarter all square at two each. Thereafter Spain slowly gained in confidence spurred on by an incredibly noisy Spanish support. Goals were traded at each end along with some excellent saves by both goalkeepers and close shots. Tempers rose with some doubtful refereeing decisions with the Spanish coach getting yellow carded for complaining. Eventually Canada simply ran out of ideas and Spain won with a little margin to spare. There was no doubt the the noise made by the Spanish supporters helped the team gain in confidence during this 14 - 11 victory. We also saw Holland defeat Germany in what was a very close match with both sides indulging in holding, pushing etc. Looking forward to the quarter-finals later today - will get our first chance to see China, Hungary and Italy who all won their groups and therefore had a day off yesterday. The fitness of the players seems pretty good with most teams consisting of tall well built individuals - their ability to come up out of the water to steal a cross or pass is something we don't really see too much of at home - a lot of leg power!!!"
27 Jul 07	Found item Harry Hewitt found a watch after the session at HMS Caledonia last weekend. Contact Harry or get in touch with webmaster if you think it is yours.
23 Jul 07	More downloads available on Scottish Swimming site Various LEN documents added to Water Polo Downloads section. Good news for referees? - Quote from Minutes : "The Secretary requested Delegates to submit the referee’s evaluation sheets timorously ............."!
19 Jul 07	Scottish Swimming site gets update The Downloads - Water Polo section of Scottish Swimming website has been revamped at long last. Up-to-date documents are now in place and out-of-date stuff removed. Details of possible financial assistance to players is online now and should be checked out. There are details too of the Scottish Swimming UKCC Level 1 Coaching Course.
18 Jul 07	Message Board Trying to get some discussion going on the Message Board. There was an indication today that we may need to tweak it a bit - I had a problem submitting a topic. If anyone tries to submit something and gets an error message please let me know so that I can try to sort it out as soon as possible. Keen to get topics on club matters and relating to water polo at large. *webmaster*
17 Jul 07	Water Polo successes in Aberdeen Got some very heartening news about Aberdeen City Council water polo sessions, thanks to Anne Masson, Swimming Development Officer there. Great to hear of some progress for water polo in Scotland. We have been trying for some time to develop water polo which Scottish Swimming is aware of. Within the Big Lottery programme free sessions were offered during school in-service days in February 07 and Easter and Summer holiday periods and the response to these sessions was very good. About 60 children took part during the in-service day in February and over 350 children took part over the Easter holidays. The Summer programme is also looking encouraging with most of the sessions almost full. These sessions have been made possible because of the Big Lottery funding which has allowed us to run free sessions however we are hoping to develop these and offer mini polo from August for age 8-12 year olds. Currently we have a junior session which runs on a Sunday morning at Aberdeen Grammar School where we have a small session of 12 (mainly boys) aged 12-16 year olds who play from 1000-1130. We are planning to run the 8-12 year old programme from 1130-1230. In addition to this I have a session on a Thursday evening at Bon-accord Baths from 2000-2100 which I intend to develop for adults. At the moment because we are not that far down the line I allow the University teams to use it and I feed in any adults who come to me looking for water polo. I would also use this session to feed in any of the children from the Sunday session as they get older. I recently also organised a half day workshop through Scottish Swimming for my teachers and coaches and David Walker came up to tutor the session. I am hoping to reserve a few places for Aberdeen on a Level 1 Water Polo Coaches Course . We have recently set up Aberdeen Diving Club with divers who are now being selected for junior Scottish squads and water polo is probably the next aquatic discipline which I would like to concentrate on. Our players on a Sunday are very keen and have never actually played a game with another team and therefore should you have any junior players of aged 12-16 who would be interested in coming up to Aberdeen for a friendly game we would love to see you." Anne Masson
17 Jul 07	Old Boys Messages received from a couple of former members. Philip Gordon tells me he has just recovered from winning a Masters 200m freestyle 3 weeks ago. David Dalziel asks if any of the club's players are due to go to Stirling Uni next term. He is short of male and female players for the university teams.
17 Jul 07	New Features We are trying out a couple of new features on the site. We now have a Guest Book and a *Message Board* and it is hoped that visitors to the site will use them. Both will be mediated to remove offensive material and both have a basic anti-spam feature. The buttons on the Home Page have been laid out differently with the "non-club" Team Caledonia, RTC Scotland and Scottish Archive ones moved to the side of the "club" ones. The Resources page, which was part of the Member Info section, now has separate button. We hope to add another couple of features soon so the Home page may change again soon to accommodate those. webmaster
16 Jul 07	National Water Polo Conference British Swimming National Performance Director Bill Sweetenham is among the speakers to address the 2007 British Water Polo National Conference. The day-long conference is confirmed for Saturday 1 September at Loughborough University. Aimed at anyone involved in water polo, conference topics include strength and conditioning, video analysis, training camps, referees and officials updates and question and answer sessions. National Performance Director Nick Hume will open the conference with a review of the year and provide details of how clubs can contribute towards the resurgence of British Water Polo. Further details, including booking forms and a full programme, will be available soon on www.britishswimming.org To register your interest or for further information email claire.whitfield@swimming.org
16 Jul 07	Result of Portobello Appeal At long last Portobello's appeal against a 1 year ban imposed by the ASA has taken place. The result was a lifting on the ban and the imposition of a fine and a reprimand.
12 Jul 07	GB upset Poland scored the winner 2.4secs from time in a ding-dong tussle to beat GB 9-8. The British were unhappy with 2 strange decisions in the last half minute which were crucial to the outcome. France now proceed to the semi-finals from Group B. Poland beat Ireland today to reach 7pts. With head-to-head result the decider in the case of a tie on points GB must beat Ukraine to avoid being relegated to the matches for 7th-12th place..
11 Jul 07	The Next Wave Dunfermline's Andrew Woodall and Lewis Don (Menzieshill Whitehall) have been selected for the GB Junior Water polo team to take part in a tournament which is being held in Sofia, Bulgaria early in August. With the change in age groups having just taken place this is the first stage for this team as they prepare for the European Junior Championships next year. Only two Scottish players were selected for the team. Andrew follows Club colleague Alasdair Campbell who gained selection for the previous team and has now moved on to Senior water polo. Andrew only took up water polo 2 1/2 years ago having taken the decision to retire from competitive swimming at 12 yrs old as many others do. As a result of taking-up water polo he has in fact returned to competitive swimming and is now also a member of InCAS. Andrew has improved dramatically over the short period of time that he has been playing water polo through the Clubs successful Junior development programme and has also played for the Club at Senior level. With Water polo a major sport on the continent Andrew is looking forward to an extremely tough baptism in Bulgaria facing the hosts, Serbia, Austria & Macedonia.
11 Jul 07	Barbecue Alasdair leaves for Lindenwood University, Missouri on Tuesday 21 August to start his water polo scholarship. We are holding a Barbecue for him from 5pm on Saturday 18 August & friends are welcome to 'pop-in'. Brian Campbell
10 Jul 07	BRITISH WATER POLO 'PROFILE DAY' TO RECRUIT (female) PLAYERS "British Water Polo is to host 'profile day' to recruit more female water polo players in the lead up to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Female swimmers who have closed the door on competitive swimming and are looking for a new challenge, aged 16 to 22 are encouraged to take part. Please read the attached flyer for further information." Stephanie West, British Swimming
07 Jul 07	UKCC Level 1 Coaching Course - like buses...........(see previous item) "As part of the Scottish Water Polo Development Plan the Scottish Water Polo Committee will be running the UKCC Level 1 Water Polo Coach Assistant Course in the last 2 weekends in August. The cost of the course will be £100 per candidate. This is after heavy subsidy for SASA Water Polo members from Sports Scotland, SASA and the Polo Committee. It will be run at Stirling on the following dates. Friday evening 17/08/2007 : Saturday all day 18/08/2007 : Sunday all day 19/08/2007 final session at Dunfermline Saturday all day 25/08/2007 : Sunday all day 26/08/2007 final session at Dunfermline Anyone who is interested in attending this course should let me know in the first instance via email at this address fuzzell_k@yahoo.com Unfortunately places on the course are limited and will be decided by the SWPC executive. I will be away this week at the European Championships but may be able to check my email. If you have any urgent enquiries please text me and I will get back to you. I know this is very short notice for everyone I'm afraid that this is due to the finalisation of the course structure and materials and the very busy Water Polo Calendar from September on. The running of the UKCC courses will be ongoing each year so for those who cannot make it this year or miss out there will be further opportunities. For more information on the UKCC see the attached DOC file." Ken Fussell, Domestic Coordinator Note : this course is separate from the DWPC course below
16 Jul 07	Title for Montenegro The tournament favourites delivered with a 19-9 win against France. There was a bonus for GB when Ed Scott won the Most Valued Goalkeeper award.
15 Jul 07	Revenge for Ukraine Ukraine avenged their defeat by GB in the early stages of the competition by taking 5th place with a 10-8 victory. GB finished with a creditable 6th place. Belarus recovered from thrashing in the semi-finals by favourites Montenegro to take Bronze with an 8-7 win over Macedonia.
14 Jul 07	Montenegro a class apart Montenegro demolished Belarus, conquerors of GB, 26-1 to book place in tomorrow's final. France beat Macedonia 12-9 (oops!) in the other semi-final.
13 Jul 07	Great Britain medal hopes dashed Belarus beat GB 10-5 and now move on to the semi-finals. GB will face Ukraine again in the battle for 5th place. However GB have achieved their aim of qualifying for the European A Qualification round
13 Jul 07	HMS Caledonia Due to lack of co-operation from swimming clubs we have been forced to change the start time of the session to 8.00 p.m. Session ends 8.50 p.m.
12 Jul 07	Great Britain Triumph GB won their crunch match with Ukraine 10-9 and moved into 2nd place in Group B. They now play Belarus tomorrow, Friday, in the quarter-final.
10 Jul 07	GB back on winning trail Britain beat bottom of the Group team Ireland 20-5 this evening. Belarus, Montenegro, France and Ukraine all had big wins.
09 Jul 07	Lesson for GB France scored a 12-6 win over Great Britain on the 2nd day in Manchester. Montenegro, Macedonia and the Ukraine also recorded their second wins.
08 Jul 07	Great start for GB An excellent win for GB 20-9 vs Israel. There were wins too for France, Ukraine, Malta, Macedonia and Montenegro
08 Jul 07	European Nations Trophy - Tickets Some weeks ago I was offered free tickets for the Club in return for "advertising" the event on our website. After a reminder, the organiser has offered an apology for failing to supply and said she will happily provide any members of the club with free tickets for the event on any of the days. In view of the lateness it may be difficult to get these tickets distributed but any member going should contact Secretary or Webmaster to see what can be arranged to take up the offer.
07 Jul 07	European Nations Trophy (Men's European B Championships) The team to represent Great Britain at the event starting tomorrow in Manchester is announced at last.
06 Jul 07	European Nations Trophy (Men's European B Championships) When the European B Championships get underway this weekend the team representing Great Britain will be, in effect, the England team. This situation stems from the demise of a Scotland senior water polo squad some time ago. Scots were invited to join the training squads but declined either by failure to respond to the invitation or, after one session or so, finding the expense too much. At the time of the invitations GB had no budget for a senior water polo team and therefore could not assist with expenses whereas England had a budget and could help their players. Scottish Swimming had restrictions on allocating monies to senior men which did not help either. By the time GB were allocated funding Scottish players were no longer in the loop.
06 Jul 07	National Academy (1995-1996) Talent Day We have just been informed of the following festival for the new Academy age group. Unfortunately falls within our holiday period . Anyone interested should advise the secretary in the first instance (I have the relevant entry form) - parents / drivers will be required to organise and provide transport to what should be an interesting day of water polo :- "We are holding a National Water Polo Festival to talent ID players, boys and girls born 1995/96 at Manchester MAC on Sunday July 29th 12-4pm Small sided games will be organised for club teams, local authorities, schools, in fact, anyone who is of age may come along and enjoy a festival of water polo. Games will be 6 a side, matches played across the width of the pool. All deep. (Two pitches) Entries will be charged at only £15.00 per team, Individuals may also enter at £5.00 per person, no later than Sunday 22nd July 2007." Norman Leighton, Talent I.D.& Development Officer-Water Polo
06 Jul 07	Summer Holidays The Club has now closed for the summer break although sessions at HMS Caledonia on Monday evenings (7.30pm - 8pm) will continue throughout and will be open to all members - note a security pass is required. The Club returns to normal from 5.30pm on Sunday 19 August 2007 Note: I will be updating the website during the holidays and would appreciate any news items etc. for inclusion - *webmaster*
05 Jul 07	European Nations Trophy (Men's European B Championships) 8-15 July Manchester According to information received by Ally McKilligan there will be TV coverage of the event as follows 25/7 19:00 Sky Sports Extra 25/7 22:00 Sky sports 2 26/7 13:30 Sky sports 2
04 Jul 07	*Sport For All Week 2007* The Club proposes to run the following during the annual Dunfermline & West Fife District Sports Council Sport for All week :- > Senior Five-a-sides : Sunday 2 September from 2.30pm > Come and Try - Tuesday 4 September 8pm - 9pm > Youth Tournament (1992+) - Saturday 8 September from 12 noon
03 Jul 07	ASA Finals The finals of the ASA Championships were staged in Manchester at the weekend. Results and reports
03 Jul 07	Tournament Winners Well done to the Mixed team which won the Kevin O'Neil Memorial Trophy at Durham last weekend. (webmaster on holiday, hence late posting). Ali Campbell has supplied a full Report and a couple of Photos
03 Jul 07	Casino Night a success The club thanks all members and friends who came along to the Casino night last Saturday to lend their support to the club. The magnificent sum of £972 was raised. Many thanks to John Wood, who organised the event and the volunteers who manned the tables, served at the bar, obtained the prizes (through gentle persuasion) and assisted with the buffet.
24 Jun 07	GB Women lose final Great Britain women's team had to settle for 2nd place after a 2-6 defeat by France in the European B Championship final in Prague. Ukraine took 3rd place with an 11-10 win over the Czech Republic.
23 Jun 07	Congratulations Andrew Woodall learned today that he has been selected for the GB Junior squad to go to Bulgaria in August. Lewis Don Menzieshill Whitehall is the other Scot selected.
23 Jun 07	GB Women into the final Great Britain women's team achieved another fine result with an 8-4 win over Portugal in the quarter-final in the European B Championships in Prague. They followed that with a 9-6 semi-final victory over the Ukraine. France beat the Czech Republic 8-5 in the other semi-final. Final is on Sunday at 10.30 a.m. GMT
22 Jun 07	Football result The challenge 5-a-side football match ended in a 13-13 draw. The younger ones believe that they won 13-12! This was not the case however and the 13-13 draw stands as the final result! The match was a big success and all 10 players had a good time! However there are always some bad points, one being Simon's lack of understanding for the rules of football when he had a few shots that Jonny Wilkinson would of been proud of! Simon used to play rugby so its easy to get mixed up! Also Zach didn't catch onto the fact that when you tackle a player you must aim to take the BALL and not just randomly kick people! The highlight of the night, however, had to be when Paul was tackled (by Zach I think!) and sent thudding to the ground! Who ever said size matters? Thanks to all 10 players for turning up and a big thanks to Paul Metcalfe for organising the event, it was a good one! Ali Campbell
22 Jun 07	ASA Championships 2007 The order of play for the ASA Championship Finals has been circulated
21 Jun 07	Latex Bands "Latex Exercise Bands" are available to buy at £2 per time for a 1.2 metre strip. Iain Thomson
21 Jun 07	GB Women close to qualifying GB Women followed a 27- 3 win over Turkey with a draw 11-11 against favourites France in the European "B" Championships in Prague. Behind 8-3 at the halfway stage the British girls staged a tremendous fight back. A 7-5 win in their final match in Group B against Slovakia saw them through to the quarter-final stage against Portugal. Ukraine and France topped the Groups to move directly to the semi-finals Brian Littlejohn is refereeing in Group A.
20 Jun 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee The minutes of the June SWPC meeting are on the Downloads/Water Polo section of the Scottish Swimming website. Note these are still to be approved and adopted at the next meeting.
19 Jun 07	Football Latest "Change to the teams for the football match tonight: Edward Haroun had to pull out so Zach Thomson is taking his place." Ali Campbell
18 Jun 07	GB Women in European "B" Championships GB start their campaign in Prague tomorrow with a match against Turkey. France are the opposition on Wednesday then Slovakia on Thursday.
17 Jun 07	HMS Caledonia Due to the refusal of Carnegie SC to provide a lane for 30 minutes each alternate week as agreed with Gary Vandermeulen Monday sessions will start at 8pm until further notice. We have asked Gary Vandermeulen who administers the Scottish Swimming pool time at HMS Caledonia to resolve this issue on his return from holiday.
16 Jun 07	Casino Night LESS THAN ONE WEEK TO GO - TICKETS ARE STARTING TO SELL FASTER - GET YOURS AT THE NEXT SESSION TO MAKE SURE OF YOUR PLACE !!!!
15 Jun 07	Challenge Match There will be a special challenge match of 5-a-side football taking place on Tuesday 19th June, between the younger members of the club and the even younger members. Venue - VIDA, Pitreavie Playing Fields. Time 7p.m. Teams: Ali Campbell, Paul Metcalfe, Simon Metcalfe, Robert Tate, Daniel Wood Darren Campbell, Christopher Campbell, Jordan Wood, Andrew Woodall, Edward Haroun Good luck to both teams and remember the rules in football are DIFFERENT to waterpolo!
13 Jun 07	Committee Meeting The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 13 June 2007 in the Carnegie Centre commencing at 7.30pm. Non-committee members and parents of Junior members are welcome to attend as observers and will be able to take a full part in the discussions.
11 Jun 07	ASA Women's Championship Julia Mackay was unable to turn out for DWPC at the weekend as she was committed to the ASA Championship with Harrogate. Here's her reflections of the match: "The ASA quarter final match Harrogate vs Penguins was a close match with the final score 5 - 3 to Penguins. This was an evenly matched game and a good insight of what's ahead for Harrogate in Div 1. We played well against a more experienced side who are in the top four of Div. 1. It was a very physical match and having not played together since April in Greece the Harrogate team did well, especially with players missing on the day. We had chances to go ahead in the game, but did not manage to convert them. The team now look forward to some good matches in the National League Div 1 starting in September." Julia Mackay
11 Jun 07	Water Polo in the News This article in today's Independent features Lancaster's Tom Curwen but also reports on problems in British water polo setup.
10 Jun 07	Lifeguard cover Well done to Keith Falconer who has agreed to co-ordinate Lifeguard cover for Club sessions from the summer break. Members over 16 should consider taking a Lifeguard course an help the club out, contact Keith for details of courses
10 Jun 07	Mixed fortunes at play-offs The Club had mixed fortunes at the SNL play-offs. The Under-15 lost to Warrender The Under-17s took their trophy with victory over Menzieshill Whitehall. The Women lost to Menzieshill Whitehall. Reports. Photo This competition has seen the rebirth of the Dunfermline Ladies team and a recruitment drive is under way, headed by Jamie Hinley & Alana Duncan, to increase numbers.
08 Jun 07	Caledonia Squad Caledonia training on Sunday 17 June at 6.30p.m. then meeting afterwards for an hour. Stewart Carlile
07 Jun 07	Senior final postponed There will be no Senior Men's SNL final at Tollcross this weekend since Warrender have withdrawn citing player holidays/injury
05 Jun 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Meeting The next SWPC meeting will be held on Thursday 7th June at Stirling University. Unfortunately neither Ritchie nor Brian are available. Any other member available to deputise? Contact Secretary
05 Jun 07	HMS Caledonia Session The first session at HMS Caledonia took place last night and was well attended. The Club extends thanks to Carnegie SC and InCAS for adjusting their schedules to allow Gary Vandermuelen to incorporate water polo in the setup at Rosyth.
03 Jun 07	Durham Tournament update We will be playing for the Kevin O'Neill Memorial Trophy on 24 June. In addition to Dunfermline, teams from Sedgefield and Kendal have been invited. The four teams will play each other in a round robin format with each match lasting 2 sessions.
03 Jun 07	Club Casino Night reminder The Club Casino night from 7.30pm on 23 June 2007. This is both a fundraising and Social event with live entertainment from *'Super Elvis' - Linton Osborne.* Pressure on the costs of operating the Club continue to increase and a strong fund raising effort will help the Committee to minimise the monthly costs to members so we urge all Members (over 16), Parents and friends to attend what promises to be an exciting evening. We would prefer tickets to be purchased prior to the night and *John Wood* will be present at most sessions to sell them - this will allow us to plan the catering for the evening. Tickets will also be available on the night Get your tickets at the next session and we will see you there!
03 Jun 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Meeting The next SWPC meeting will be held on Thursday 7th June at Stirling University.
31 May 07	Durham Tournament The Club have been invited to send a team to participate in a 1989+ tournament at Durham on 24 June 2007
31 May 07	RTC Changes Some changes for the RTCs from Term 1 in October 2007. The new groups will be named year-groups: 95/96 & 93/94 (moving away from the traditional Youth & Junior titles to prevent any confusion). Week 1 in October will be a 95/96 Trial & Profiling Week. I will send out a flyer for you to customise and advertise your 95/96 trials to your Regional Clubs. 93/94 Age-Group will start from Week 2 of Term 1. Sue Langston
30 May 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Minutes Minutes of the SWPC March and April meetings are now available on the Scottish Swimming downloads section. The Club has asked repeatedly that the minutes should be made available but has been turned down with a number of excuses. This should be seen as progress in keeping the water polo fraternity informed of what is being done on their behalf. The next step is to get more clubs sending representatives to the meetings regularly. G.S.
30 May 07	Come on the Pars A gem from the Scottish Cup
29 May 07	RTC Update - 29 May 07 The third Scottish Regional Training Centre term started on Sunday 27th May at Carnegie Baths Dunfermline under the instruction of Lead Coach Alan Donaldson. The turnout of 15 players was low but others with GB commitments and prior engagements are expected to be available for next week. A total of 24 players have registered for the term but there is room for more attendees and it should be noted that 23 of the present squad come from only 2 clubs (Dunfermline and Menzieshill Whitehall). A big well done and thanks to all those that took part in the first session of the term. Other details and useful links on the RTC page Mike Tate
29 May 07	Scottish National League Finals The proposed schedule is now on the Scottish swimming website. (Direction map for Tollcross Leisure Centre)
29 May 07	Up for the Cup Brian Campbell welcomed an old team-mate and supporter of DWPC to the Club on Sunday. Drew Hunter was up from England to cheer on the Pars at Hampden. His son, Robin, who plays for Chester joined in the club session. Brian is looking into the possibility of a visit to Chester for our youngsters. photo.
27 May 07	Training Time Remember that, with effect from today training on Sunday evenings commences at 5.30pm
27 May 07	Regional Training Centre For all players born between 1991 & 1996 the next GB RTC term commences today Sunday 27 May 2006 from 12.30pm at Carnegie Centre. This is an excellent course for our young and beginner players to learn the basics of water polo. Cost for term of 7 weeks is £35 payable at the first session with cheques payable to 'HPS'
24 May 07	Casino Night - Tickets on Sale from Sunday The details of the Fund Raising *Casino Night* are as follows Sat 23rd June - Baldridgeburn Institute - Time: 7.30 - midnight - Live Entertainment - Bar - Buffet - Price: £10 Age limit restriction of 16 & over - Ticket price includes starter chips - Games to start at 7.45 prompt.
25 May 07	European Nations Trophy Schedule The full match schedule for the Manchester event has been published.
24 May 07	Casino Night The details of the Fund Raising *Casino Night* are as follows Sat 23rd June - Baldridgeburn Institute - Time: 7.30 - midnight - Live Entertainment - Bar - Buffet - Price: £10 Age limit restriction of 16 & over - Ticket price includes starter chips - Games to start at 7.45 prompt.
24 May 07	HMS Caledonia Session cancelled We have just been advised that due to the Bank Holiday HMS Caledonia closes early on Monday 28 May 2007 therefore the first session at this pool will be held on Monday 4 June 2007 7.30 p.m. to 9.00p.m.- remember to allow an extra 15mins for Security.
23 May 07	Referees' School in Manchester Article notes that UK Sport is part funding British participants at this course which "will enable a large group of British referees to undertake important personal development". Brian Littlejohn, now based in England, and former SWPC Convener, Ross Elder, are the 2 Scots taking part. However, several Scottish table officials are hopeful of being selected for the European Championships in Manchester in July. Congratulations to Brian Littlejohn who has been appointed by FINA to officiate at the Junior Men's World Championships in California in August.
19 May 07	Session Times (corrected) Please note that a Tuesday session from 8pm - 9pm will continue for all Development & Junior players. The corrected new session times are now - With effect from Sunday 27 May 2007 the following session times will apply :- > Sunday 5.30pm - 6.30pm at Carnegie Centre : Juniors / Development as at present 6.30pm - 8pm at Carnegie Centre : Seniors & selected Juniors > Monday 7.30pm - 9pm at HMS Caledonia : Juniors / Development /Goalkeepers > Tuesday 8pm - 9pm at Carnegie Centre : Juniors / Development as atpresent > Thursday 8.30pm - 10pm at Carnegie Centre : Seniors & selected Juniors A security pass is required for entry to HMS Caledonia at a cost of £1 per year, forms are available at sessions and they can be handed in during your first visit with a photograph. Car permits are also available however the driver must also have a security pass. B.M.Campbell, Secretary
19 May 07	Fund Raising The Club are hosting a Casino/games night on the 23rd of June at the Baldridgeburn Institute, Dunfermline. The full details of the evening are still to be finalised but as we are trying to keep our costs to a minimum then most of the duties required to run the event have to be carried out by volunteers. At this stage therefore I am looking for volunteers to help organise and run the evening and make it as much of a success as possible. Tasks which require to be organised include :- > Organising and running a Bar; > Organising a Buffet; > Helping to run the Games; > Organising Entrance Tickets; > Distributing Toy Money. If you feel you can help out with any of the above, please get back to me as soon as possible (i.e. NOW) at a club night, your assistance will be very much appreciated. John Wood Fundraising Convener
19 May 07	Monthly Fees Since the monthly fees were set three years ago the Club has generally increased the available pool time for all members and absorbed increases in pool & lifeguard costs. Unfortunately the Club can no longer absorb these additional costs and will have to consider an increase in monthly fees at our next AGM. The treasurer will bring forward a proposal to the AGM for members to debate and decide upon. The new level may have to be set at around £20 although this will be dependent on fund raising and level of membership. B.M.Campbell, Secretary
19 May 07	Warrender Fives In the first game DWPC defeated Leeds 8-0 with 3 goals from Alasdair Campbell & Neil Comerford & 1 each from David Pettigrew & Stewart Carlile. Team : Simon Metcalfe, David Stewart, David Pettigrew, Stewart Carlile, Neil Comerford, Alasdair Campbell & Andrew Woodall. DWPC reached the semi final with a victory over Edinburgh University with 4 goals from Neil Comerford, 3 from Alasdair Campbell and one each from Stewart Carlile, Davie Pettigrew & Calum Fraser who has joined the team. Good victory in the semi final defeating Portobello 14-5 with 4 goals from Neil Comerford, 3 from Alasdair Campbell (including a back-hook lob !); 2 from Davie Stewart and a goal from Andrew Woodall. DWPC defeat Warrender 9-4 to lift the Warrender Fives trophy with 3 goals from Alasdair Campbell; 2 from Calum Fraser and 1 each from David Pettigrew, Stewart Carlile, David Stewart and Andrew Woodall Congratulations to the team.
18 May 07	National Water Polo Academy Chaperones/Managers & Coaches Anyone interested in either position at Millfield this summer should advise Sue Langston immediately. Managers advert and Registration Form Coaches advert & Registration Form In previous years assistance with travelling and attendance costs have been given by the Scottish Water Polo Committee, application should be made to them via the Scottish Swimming Office although there is no guarantee assistance will be provided this year.
17 May 07	SNL Finals Day The schedule for the 2007 Scottish National Leagues on Saturday 9th June at Tollcross Park Leisure Centre G32 7QR is as follows: 11:00 – 12:15 U15 Dunfermline Vs Warrender 12:15 – 13:30 U17 Menzieshill/Whitehall Vs Dunfermline 13:30 – 14:45 Women Dunfermline Vs Menzieshill/Whitehall 14:45 – 16:00 Men Dunfermline Vs Warrender I would appreciate it if the teams could email me their team lists during the week before. Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator The following appointments have been made for the League Playoffs. Please note new Officials Shirts will be issued and should be worn on the day. Table Officials - Jim Scobie, Alan Kerr, Peter Armstrong, Katie Elder, Paul Metcalfe (this will allow each at least one game off) Referees - >11:00 - 12:15 U15 Dunfermline Vs Warrender - Keith Anderson/Murray McLeod >12:15 - 13:30 U17 Menzieshill/Whitehall Vs Dunfermline - Steve O'Brien/Derek Docherty >13:30 - 14:45 Women Dunfermline Vs Menzieshill/Whitehall - Ken Fussell/Keith Anderson >14:45 - 16:00 Men Dunfermline Vs Warrender - Murray McLeod/Steve O' Brien All parties please advise their availability a.s.a.p. Murray McLeod - Director of Technical Officials
17 May 07	Scottish National Leagues In the U/17 league Warrender lost to Menzieshill which, as they drew with East Dunbartonshire earlier in the season, means that they cannot now catch us for second place. Our match with them next Tuesday is a ‘dead’ game. Confirmation is awaited from Ken Fussell but we believe that the Club will now contest every play-off final on 9 June 2007 with the likely matches – u/15 : Dunfermline vs Warrender - u/17 : Dunfermline vs Menzieshill - Ladies : Dunfermline vs Menzieshill - Senior : Dunfermline vs tba Well done to all players for this achievement. Brian Campbell
15 May 07	Regional Training Centre - TERM 3 The RTC (Regional Training Centre) is the starting point for entry into the GB Squad structure and is recommended for all young players. Sessions are not too difficult and concentrate on the basics. Competition days are held during the year and attendance at Millfield during the summer is also offered. It should be a target for our young players to attend the RTC. The Club have been concerned for some time that Murray Mcleod, the RTC Administrator, has failed to make any provision for term 3 which should have commenced a few weeks ago. With Murray now having confirmed that he has stepped down from this position the Club are pleased to note that Mike Tate has stepped into the breach and, from this point forward, will be the main point of contact for the Scottish RTC. Alan Donaldson is continuing as head coach. The Club have offered support to Mike in this new position and have made the following bookings at the Carnegie Centre on his behalf for term 3 which unfortunately will now run for only seven instead of ten weeks :- Wk 1. 12.30pm - 3pm : Sunday 27th May - players to arrive at Noon for registration Wk 2. 12.30pm - 3pm : Saturday 2nd June Wk 3. 12.30pm - 3pm : Sunday 10th June Wk 4. 12.30pm - 3pm : Saturday 16th June Wk 5. 3pm - 5.30pm : Saturday 23rd June Wk 6. 12.30pm - 3pm : Saturday 30th June Wk 7. 12.30pm - 3pm : Saturday 7th July With the National age groupings expected to change in the Summer the age group for this term will be for players born 1991 - 1996 or later only therefore in summary we have - 12.30 - 2pm : National Academy group : 1993 - 1996 1.30pm - 3pm : Youth group : 1991 & 1992 plus selected National Academy players Squad membership will be based on ability rather than purely age. In each session the first 1.5hrs (generally 12.30 - 2pm) will be for the National Academy, younger players whilst the second 1.5hrs (generally 1.30pm - 3pm) will be for the older Youth players. The cost for the term will be £35.00(altered fee advised by Sue Langston) payable at the first session (cheques made out to 'HPS Ltd'). The Club have provided an e-mail address for Mike : rtc@dunfermline-wpc.co.uk (01383 620584) and there is a specific 'RTC' page on our website : http://www.dunfermline-wpc.co.uk/rtc.htm Please confirm your attendance to Mike by return providing your full name, date of Birth, address, telephone, Club and e-mail address.
13 May 07	New Web-blog Novel new website. Ongoing blog by Yiannis Giannouris coach of Panionios GS from Athens. Historical photos, mementos and notes on personalities from the world of water polo.
13 May 07	GB end on a high GB's last match in the Qualifier ended in an 18-4 win over Austria. Scorers - Jake Vincent 2; Sean King 3; Brett Perkins 3; Ally Campbell 2; Jack Waller 2; Steve Bayles 4; Glen Robinson 1; Will Middleton 1. "Eurovision style refereeing and bad luck against the French stopped us from qualifying". Sorry for late report - mobile battery dead - G.S. France finished top after beating Belgium 20-5 and Slovenia were second following an 18-2 win over Portugal to take the qualifying places. GB took third spot well ahead of the rest. (photo of pool) Thanks to Eileen Waller for texting the reports so promptly.
12 May 07	GB win again GB scored their second win in beating Belgium 11-4. Scorers: Sean King 3; Glen Robinson 2; Will Middleton 2; James Wannop 1; Jack Waller 1; Ally Campbell 1; Jake Vincent 1. p.s. No penalty saves from Matt and Ally missed with a lob! France moved to the top of the group with a 13-9 win over Slovenia and Portugal beat Austria 11-9.
12 May 07	GB pile on the goals GB got their first win of the Tournament in their third game with a 25-2 score over Portugal. Matt Holland saved yet another penalty while scorers were Jack Waller 8; Ally Campbell 5 (inc 2 lobs!); Sean King 5; Glen Robinson 2; Tom Kelly 2; Will Middleton 1; Richard Lawlor 1; Steven Bayles 1. France beat Austria 26-3 and Slovenia beat Belgium 14-1 and that should settle the two qualification places.
11 May 07	GB lose to hosts The second game for GB was always going to be tough. The boys put up a great fight in a very physical match but went down 7-10 to Slovenia. Scorers Sean King 3; Brett Perkins 1; Ally Campbell 1; Richard Lawlor 1; Jack Waller 1. Matt Holland continued his recent successful run with 2 penalty saves. France kept their 100% record with a 28-4 win over Portugal. Belgium beat Austria 10-7.
11 May 07	Fund Raiser We are holding a fund raising night to help raise much needed funds for the club. The event will have a Casino Games theme to it. Everyone will have the opportunity to bet with toy money/counters and the one left with the most at the end of the evening winning a prize. The event will take place on the 23rd of June and will be held at the Baldridgeburn Institute, Dunfermline. Full details of the evening still to be finalised but we are trying to keep our costs to a minimum and most of the duties required have to be carried out by volunteers. At this stage therefore I am looking for volunteers to help organise and run the evening and make it as much of a success as possible. Tasks include :- <Organising and running a Bar> <Organising a Buffet> < Helping to run the Games> <Organising Entrance Tickets> <Distributing Toy Money> If you feel you can help out with any of the above, please get back to me as soon as possible (i.e. NOW), your assistance will be very much appreciated. Also if any of you have any contacts who may be willing to donate a prize for the evening then this would also be gratefully received. Thanks, John Wood, Fundraising Convenor (johnwood691@btinternet.com)
10 May 07	GB lose close opener The opening game in Kranj resulted in a 6-8 defeat for GB. France took an early lead and Britain just couldn't get in front.. Scorers - Jack Waller 1; Brett Perkins 1; Ali Campbell 2; Will Middleton 1; James Wannop 1 In the other matches Belgium beat Portugal 6-4 and Slovenia beat Austria 28-1
10 May 07	Warrender 5s The Edinburgh club's annual 5-a-side tournament will be held on 19th May. Dunfermline drawn in Group B along with Leeds, Edinburgh University and a Select Team. Warrender, Scottish University Select, Menzieshill Whitehall and Western are in Group A
09 May 07	The adventure begins Ali left for the European Junior Qualifiers yesterday afternoon travelling by train to Grantham where he was to stay overnight before catching the flight to Ljubljana, Slovenia from Stanstead. Minor problem for Ali - train broke down at York and he ended up 2.5hrs late into Grantham. Flight left on time this afternoon. Team had first training session this evening for one hour with a second session tomorrow morning.
09 May 07	British Swimming on Kranj The national website has a comprehensive article on the squad and prospects. Maybe there will be full reports on the matches on the site this week.
08 May 07	Thanks from GB Team Manager "Gents, - Check out the Dunfermline site. Some fantastic messages there. What great encouragement! - Sorry I haven't sent it on before now - I've been away until last night. Many thanks Brian. What a great job! Regards," Helena
07 May 07	Greek club seeking exchange Club Hercules, Thessalonika, and Apollo Sports Hotel offer exchange visit for polo training and matches. *Julia Mackay* and her Harrogate team-mates visited the Hercules club and stayed at the Apollo recently.
06 May 07	Haba-Waba Festival This may be of interest, an international Water Polo competition for 8 - 9 year olds! In Slovakia! Teams of 9 players at less 3 girls. From June 25th return June 29th.. Player and coach accommodation costs covered, extra people from 35 to 50 euros. If anyone is interested contact me immediately as the first entry deadline is today. Ken Fussell
06 May 07	Good Luck Messages for the GB team in Slovenia With Alasdair Campbell and his GB team-mates of to Slovenia from Wednesday 8 May to compete in the European Junior Qualifiers we are publishing good luck messages to them on the website. Should you wish to send Ali and the team a good luck message please either e-mail myself or the webmaster via the website by return - feel free to pass this message around and remember to login and get an update on their progress from Thursday evening next week. Brian Campbell
06 May 06	Awards for All Grant The Club have made a satisfactory report to 'Awards for All' following the award of a £5,000 grant in January 2006 and they have confirmed that our grant file has now been closed. The grant enabled us to replace and add equipment, run a Junior tournament, fund our away trip to Bath last year, run an Easter camp and increase the number of pool sessions we were able to offer our young players. The grant has undoubtedly made a huge contribution to the current numbers and standard of our youngsters and the Club wish to thank 'Awards for All' for their assistance.
07 May 07	Possible Coaches' Course The success we have had in attracting young players has left us with a need to improve the education of our coaches and helpers and we have recently applied for a grant to run a UKCC Level 1 Water Polo Coaches Course in Dunfermline. A decision on our grant application will be made on 28th June.
06 May 06	Scottish National League In the Senior Men's league DWPC defeated Warrender 22-10 with goals from :- Alasdair Campbell 6 (and 2 missed penalties!); Neil Comerford 5; Dave Stewart 4; Andrew Woodall 3. Ally McKilligan; Simon Metcalfe (from his goal area); Stewart Carlile and Ritchie Metcalfe scored 1 each. Robert Tate completing the line-up concentrated on defence. Despite increasing the average age of the team (by a factor of four !!!) Ritchie continues to 'dominate' the matches with his goal coming from a 'stramash' where he called upon his experience and fast hands to put away a chance. The team are already through to the play-offs at Tollcross on 9 June 2007 (from 11am - 4pm) although the opponents are not known at present.
04 May 07	Alternative Pool Time With the closure of the Carnegie Centre planned for early 2008 we have been searching for an alternative pool for our sessions. By far the best alternative is HMS Caledonia and we have been successful being allocated from 7.30pm to 9pm on a Monday evening with the first 30 minutes shared with the local swimming clubs. Our thanks to Gary Vandermeulen at Scottish Swimming for his assistance here. We also have the option of introducing a land session prior to 7.30pm however to do this we require a volunteer to take such a session - volunteers please It is our intention, from June probably, to move our current Tuesday session to the Monday night giving-up our time at the Carnegie Centre. As the pool is much larger both all players will be in for 1.5hrs if they so wish and are capable of doing so. Please advise if you are not available to attend a Monday night. If there is a large number of members who cannot attend on a Monday night the pool time may not be taken up. Confirmation will be provided as soon as possible and instructions on obtaining passes issued. On a Sunday evening we have been advised that the Carnegie Centre will be closing at 8pm from Sunday 27 May 2007. Our session times will changefrom this date, therefore, with the youngsters in from 5.30pm - 6.30pm and the older Juniors/Senior session from 6.30pm - 8pm. We have asked how Water polo players can gain entry to the Area Institute of Sport and we have been advised that Scottish Swimming are taking this up
04 May 07	Open Water The Club has received entry forms for various open water events. Anyone interested should contact the Secretary
03 May 07	Rearranged fixture Our final match vs Warrender will be played on Tuesday 22 May at 9pm and not Sunday 20 May. This will avoid Warrender travelling over the Forth Bridge during the roadworks period.
02 May 07	ASA Youth Women's Championship Results of the ASA Youth Women's Championship 2007 Round 1 held on 29th April. The results were as follows: Manchester A 24 Carlisle 4; Liverpool 14 Sheffield 10 Thanks to Kim Langridge for those results. It seems we are getting a reputation for keeping polo people informed and it's nice to know we are appreciated. The lack of information on the official sites certainly leaves a gap to be filled.
01 May 07	GB in Slovenia next week After successful warm-up tournaments the GB team, including the Club's Alasdair Campbell, get down to the real business next week. They will be in Kranj, Slovenia for the European Youth Championships Qualification Tournament. They will meet France (Thurs p.m), Slovenia (Fri p.m.), Portugal, (Sat a.m.) Belgium (Sat p.m.) and Austria (Sun a.m.). Our intrepid reporters will be there and promise reports for the website. Tad Detko will be refereeing at another Qualification Tournament in Skopje, Macedonia at the same time.
30 Apr 07	Seniors win Good win 15-10 (3-2; 4-2; 3-1 & 5-4) over Western in Senior National League with a very young team - Scorers : Dave Stewart Christopher Campbell 3; Ali Campbell, Darren Campbell & Calum Fraser 2; Ali McKilligan, Zach Thomson & Ritchie Metcalfe. Ritchie's goal came from a full length break (there is of course no truth in the rumour that he needed oxygen after the swim !)
30 Apr 07	RTC Murray McLeod has decided to step down as the RTC Administrator due to business commitments. Well done to Club member Mike Tate for stepping into the breach and taking over. The next term may start from 12 May again at the Carnegie Centre - confirmation of the dates is awaited
29 Apr 07	Senior team notes Tonight's SNL game resulted in a 7-9 loss to Portobello. Team & (scorers):Simon Metcalfe, Calum Fraser (3), Ali Campbell (2), Stewart Carlile (1), Neil Strachan (1), Ally McKilligan, Andrew Woodall, Neil Comerford, Darren Campbell, Chris Campbell, Davie Stewart Senior game tomorrow night against Western Baths, the team for that game is: Davie Stewart, Calum Fraser, Stewart Carlile, Simon Metcalfe, Ali Campbell, one 93 player - Zach Thomson, two 94 players - Darren & Chris Campbell and, playing in his first game for the club in a while, Ritchie Metcalfe.
29 Apr 07	GB Juniors take the trophy The GB Junior team beat Czech Republic 8-7 for a clean sweep in Prague and end as tournament winners. Scorers: Brett Perkins (1), Sean King(2), Jack Waller(1), Tom Kelly(1), Stephen Bayles (1) & Will Middleton(2). * Confirmed that Sean King only had 2 majors in 1st game but was "wrapped up" due to error by table. Good job it wasn't a tight game.
29 Apr 07	ASA Championships update Mike Coles has circulated this update on the ASA competitions
28 Apr 07	GB Juniors win again Results from Prague : GB 11 – Macedonia 6 - Scorers for GB : Jack Waller 7, Sean King 2, Jake Vincent 2. GB were 5-0 up after 1st period. A good win for the boys. Czech Republic 12 Switzerland 9 in the other match this afternoon.
28 Apr 07	Lancaster too strong in ASA Youth Although they lost 9-21 (3-4; 1-6;3-6; 2-5) to Lancaster, Dunfermline's effort delighted Brian Campbell. Lancaster were older and stronger overall but the boys; effort was magnificent. Man-up was a problem, as for all our teams these days. Andrew Woodall was top scorer with 5 goals and had a superb game. Other scorers Zach Thomson, Lewis Don, Darren Campbell and Chris Campbell. (photo)
28 Apr 07	GB Juniors up and running Results from Prague : Czech Republic 7 Macedonia 11; GB 14 – Switzerland 7 - Scorers for GB : Jack Waller 7, Sean King 3 (and 3 majors!), Will Middleton 3, Richard Lawlor 1. There was controversy about Sean King's 3 majors. (Thanks to Eileen Waller & Ali Campbell for info)
27 Apr 07	GB Youth Squad selections Congratulations to Andrew Woodall on his selection to the GB Youth Squad, unfortunately Robert Tate missed out on selection. This squad becomes the Junior squad after the summer and they will be trying to qualify for the Europeans in 2008. The other Scottish players in the squad are Ross Woolley (Warrender) & Lewis Don (Menzieshill).
27 Apr 07	ASA Youth Team for the match vs Lancaster tomorrow - 1991+ ASA Youth cup : Jake Hinley; Robert Tate; Ross Woolley; Mark Steeples; Zach Thomson Lewis Don; Christopher Campbell; Jordan Wood; Andrew Woodall & Darren Campbell. Unfortunately Andrew Melville has had to withdrew due to illness.
27 Apr 07	GB Juniors in Prague After their successful visit to Poland (photo) the GB Junior team leave for Prague tomorrow, however Ali Campbell has had to pull out from the trip due to illness. In Ali's absence arrangements have been made to get reports for the website. They will play against Switzerland (Saturday), Macedonia, (Saturday) and Czech Republic (Sunday).
26 Apr 07	Andrew and the door A bit of a jam livened up the trip to Walsall last weekend.
23 Apr 07	Protecting Children - successful course Eight Club members and two from other Clubs attended the Sports Coach UK Safeguarding & Protecting Children course at the Carnegie Centre. The course was well presented by David Walker and the Club thanked him for his efforts in making the evening both interesting and thought provoking.
23 Apr 07	ASA Championships update Mike Coles has circulated this update on the ASA competitions
23 Apr 07	Sporting Gesture I understand that Lancaster, who withdrew due to late confirmation of fixture date, are to be re-installed into the ASA Junior Championship. Opponents Invicta have offered to play Lancaster at an alternate time and venue. Well done Invicta for a really sporting gesture.
22 Apr 07	Progress for Dunfermline Youth team in Walsall Dunfermline were in total control against Manchester B in the ASA Youth Championship in Walsall winning 27-14 (8-0; 8-5; 5-8; 6-1). Scorers Lewis Don 7; Chris Campbell 5; Andrew Woodall 5; Darren Campbell 4; Mark Steeples 2; Robert Tate 1; Ross Woolley 1; Jordan Wood 1; Andrew Melville 1. Next Saturday they are back in Walsall for the 2nd Round where they meet Lancaster who beat or City of Birmingham 16-10 and will be tough opposition.
22 Apr 07	Scottish Finals "I am in the process of booking Tollcross for the SNL Finals Day on Saturday 9th June from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. I have allowed 1 1/4 hours per game. The games will need to start on time so all coaches and players must ensure that they are warmed up and ready to start the game proper at the scheduled time. I will try and arrange earlier warm up time for the first game. Medals will be presented after each game. 11:00 National Academy (U15) : 12:15 Youth (U17) : 13:30 Women : 14:45 Men." Ken Fussell, Domestic Coordinator
22 Apr 07	Disappointment for GB in Poland GB lost the final 4-8 to Belarus. It was 3-3 at the halfway stage then Belarus scored 3 quick goals and there was no way back. Scorers Alasdair Campbell, Jack Waller, James Wannop and Will Middleton. The team must now get themselves ready for Prague. Been getting some good feedback from visitors to the website regarding up-to-date reports. Most of the credit should go to Ali Campbell* for his text messages." G.S.
21 Apr 07	GB reach the final in Poland GB beat Poland 3-1 which means GB play Belarus in tomorrow's final. Scorers Alasdair Campbell, Jake Vincent and Steven Bayles.Poland's only goal was a penalty. Matt Holland saved another penalty.
21 Apr 07	ASA Championship Junior result Dunfermline played well in their cup tie vs Sutton and Cheam but, like the seniors last week, failed to convert sufficient man-up chances. Score 5-6 with goals from Elliot Robertson, Chris Campbell, Andrew Woodall; Lewis Don; Darren Campbell. Dunfermline can take heart from the fact that most of the team are eligible to play in the younger age group tomorrow.
21 Apr 07	Shock result in Poland Sweden beat Poland 6-4 which means GB in final if they don't lose to Poland
21 Apr 07	The sites for the News The Dunfermline WPC and Lancaster AS&WPC websites try hard to keep the GB polo fraternity up to date. Our website has partnered up with the Lancaster website to try to keep you up with all the latest news! The Scottish and English national sites are very limited so keep more up to date on the polo scene by visiting both our sites regularly. Let us know if we're not doing the job! We can always use more news items so let us have them.
21 Apr 07	GB Juniors draw in Poland Belarus tied the game at 3-3 with 8 seconds left in a low-scoring game. Matt Holland saved 2 penalties for GB. GB goals scored by Jack Waller 2; James Wannop 1. Good news about Glen Robinson is that an operation on his shoulder wasn't necessary apparently. Sorry for the misinformation.
20 Apr 07	ASA Championships Good Luck to the club's Youth and Junior teams who are in Walsall this weekend for the ASA Championships. Youth: Jake Hinley; Robert Tate (C); Ross Woolley; Mark Steeples; Zach Thomson; Lewis Don; Christopher Campbell; Jordan Wood; Andrew Woodall; Andrew Melville; Darren Campbell; Joe Thomson; Craig Wilkinson Junior:- Sam Pembridge; Robert Tate; Elliot Robertson; Mark Steeples; Zach Thomson; Ross Woolley; Christopher Campbell; Jordan Wood; Andrew Woodall; Lewis Don; Jamie Murray
20 Apr 07	GB Juniors in Poland The tournament in Gorzow, Poland has started and GB Juniors have got off to a great start defeating Sweden in their first match 12-3 with goals from Alasdair Campbell 4; James Wannop 3 and one goal each from Will Middleton; Rafik; Jack Waller; Jake Vincent & Stephen Bayles. (One of Ali's goals was a 'backhook lob' which, if you ask him, he will demonstrate - probably for the rest of the year!) In the other match Poland defeated Belarus in a very physical encounter which produced 24 majors & 4 players wrapped (3 Polish players). Glen Robinson underwent his operation today and will be out of action for a few weeks, the good news is that he should be fit for the European Qualifiers in May. GB play Belarus on Saturday morning & Poland on Saturday night in what look to be two difficult games.
20 Apr 07	Message from a Hungarian Mum Brian Littlejohn has forwarded a request from the mother of a young Hungarian water polo player hoping to arrange a summer exchange visit in "England".
19 Apr 07	Lancaster withdraw Lancaster Junior Men have pulled out of this year's ASA Competition. They had understood that the date for the early rounds of the competition was to be changed because of the GB Junior team competing in Poland this weekend. Notice of the decision to stick with the original date came too late for them to organise a team. Invicta proceed to the semi-finals.
19 Apr 07	GB Juniors in Poland - update A mixed first day for the GB Junior team in Poland. In the first friendly GB defeated Poland B 14-6 with 4 goals from Glen Robinson; 3 from Alasdair Campbell, 2 from Jack Waller and one each from Steven Bayles, Brett Perkins, Will Middleton, James Wannop & Dan Kortz In the second warm-up match GB lost to Poland A 11-7 with 2 goals each from Alasdair Campbell, Will Middleton & Brett Perkins & 1 from James Wannop. Three of Alasdair's five goals have come from Lobs ! Unfortunately Glen Robinson has dislocated his shoulder and undergoes an operation tomorrow (Friday) to repair it. The tournament starts tomorrow night with a match against Sweden
19 Apr 07	Greek trip for Julia Dunfermline's Julia MacKay left yesterday, for Thessaloniki in Greece, with her Harrogate team. Julia and the team were invited by the Greek team, Hercules, to a 5 day joint training camp. They will be training twice a day and have official games over the weekend. Julia and the team are beginning their preparation for games in this country and abroad over the summer months.
19 Apr 07	GB Juniors in Poland The GB Junior (1989+) team, including lone Scot Alasdair Campbell, has arrived in Gorzow, Poland for their second warm-up tournament for the European qualifiers. Their match schedule is - Friday evening - vs Sweden: Saturday a.m.- vs Belarus; Saturday p.m. - vs Poland; Sunday a.m.- finals
18 Apr 07	Scottish National League The club Senior team lost 13-15 away to Portobello last night. Team and scorers : Simon Metcalfe; Calum Fraser (5); Robert Tait (3); Neil Comerford (2); Andrew Woodall (2); Stewart Carlile (1); Dave Stewart and Ali McKilligan.
17 Apr 07	European Tickets finally on Sale Tickets for the LEN Euopean Nations Championship in Manchester (8-15 July) now on sale by telephone (0800 220292) or online
16 Apr 07	CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP To: Senior Members / Coaches / Pool Helpers / Team Managers As advised earlier the Club is running a Child Protection workshop on Monday 23 April 2007 from 6.30pm - 9.30pm at The Carnegie Centre for anyone over 15. Anyone helping either with coaching or managing children should attend this course which is free to SASA members (£18 to non members). Please confirm your wish to attend a.s.a.p. as numbers are limited (max 20). The alternative will be to attend a course outwith Dunfermline.
16 Apr 07	Campbell misses ASA Cup tie GB Juniors continue with their preparations for the European Junior Qualifiers by competing in a tournament in Poland this weekend. They will play against Sweden, Poland and Belarus in addition to some additional training matches against Poland. This means Alasdair Campbell will miss the ASA Junior Cup match against Sutton and Cheam this weekend (Sutton lose two players).
15 Apr 07	ASA Club Senior Championship Dunfermline lost in the first round of the ASA Cup 7-9 to Leeds. Dunfermline scored only 2 out of 19 men-up chances in a match they could have won. Scorers Alasdair Campbell - 4; Mark Speed - 2; Ryan Laird - 1
15 Apr 07	Water Polo Development There is a new body offering to assist the development of water polo in areas where it is not a major sport. The UK is among the regions listed as "Lowest Level". The press release announcing WPD foundation sees it as “non-profit organisation”, which has been formed by multidisciplinary consultants. They are offering to support the development of waterpolo to the international level and want to help by a variety of services regarding the development, the promotion and the support of any waterpolo program around the globe." It will be interesting to see whether the SWPC consider an approach for help to the new body. WPD staff list contains a large number of famous names in waterpolo. The WPD website has only a partial English version at the moment.
14 Apr 07	Scottish National Leagues Ken Fussell has sent the following Fixtures and Results update with a request for conversion to web page display and on the DWPC website. "The Draft Issue 4 of the SNL Draw. There have been 5 games rescheduled, they have the date highlighted in orange. I know they are now into mid May but I have run out of sessions to play them. Can everyone please check the schedule and let me know of any problems immediately! That includes the referees. By Monday I will send out the FINAL issue 4 of the draw." K. Fussell, Domestic Coordinator
13 Apr 07	National Academy Training Day Invitation Information has been received from GB regarding Training days for National Academy Girls. Details for the boys will be advised shortly.
13 Apr 07	Water Polo on YouTube YouTube has certainly led to an explosion of water polo video available on the Net. Matches, techniques, skills, personalities etc. all available in range of quality. Other search terms include - waterpolo; vaterpolo; wasserball; pallanuoto; vizilabda; waterpolista
08 Apr 07	GB Juniors unbeaten in Porto GB Juniors completed a successful tournament in Porto with a good 19 - 4 win over Ireland with 14 goals scored in the first half - their fitness must be in question ! Alasdair was top scorer with four goals one of which was his trademark lob. GB Juniors have two more warm-up tournaments in Poland & Czechoslovakia before they compete in the European qualifiers in Slovenia in early May.
08 Apr 07	Tickets on Sale Tickets for the LEN Euopean Nations Championship in Manchester (8-15 July) go on sale on Tuesday 10 April by telephone (0800 220292) or online Note : Online service did not start on date specified - will keep checking G.S.
07 Apr 07	GB Juniors win twice more in Porto GB Juniors (89+) defeated the Portuguese Youth 91+ team 27-3 in their second match in Porto with Alasdair scoring two goals, neither of which were lobs - he reports that he hasn't had any 'lobbing' opportunities yet ! GB Juniors continued their fine form recording a 16-6 victory over the Portuguese Junior team (89+).
06 Apr 07	ASA Senior Championship Dunfermline open their Senior ASA Championship campaign with a tie against Leeds at 2pm on Sunday 15 April at the Leeds International Pool
06 Apr 07	GB Juniors win first match in Porto In their first match of the weekend in Porto GB Juniors (89+) defeated Sweden 16-7. In the other match Portugal's Youth team (91+) nearly beat their Junior team (89+) team going down 8-7. GB play the two Portuguese teams tomorrow followed by Ireland on Sunday and return home on Monday
06 Apr 07	Police Eject Water Polo Fans Calum Fraser pointed out this item reporting on over-enthusiasm at last week's World Championship semi-final.
03 Apr 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Agenda for Next Meeting which is scheduled for Thursday 12 April at the NSA. "Our National Convenor asks for a full turnout on this occasion." Note : Club seeking a volunteer to attend the next meeting as Roddy Mackay will now attend as the Finance Officer rather than as Club delegate.
03 Apr 07	Match to be rescheduled U/17 match vs Warrender a week on Sunday has been cancelled as both teams have players involved in other Polo or Swimming commitments - new date to be agreed with Warrender.
03 Apr 07	GB Duty Alasdair Campbell is off to Porto, Portugal today with the GB Junior team which will be playing Sweden, Ireland & Portugal.
02 Apr 07	RTC Weekend in Walsall Nine Dunfermline players attended the Regional Training Centre Competition day for National Academy players (born 1993 - 1994) which was held at Walsall. Congratulations to Zach who was a member of the winning team and to Craig whose team were the beaten finalists.Nicola Tate attended the girls Competition day which was held the day before. (photo)
02 Apr 07	Seniors win National League fixture The club's Senior team had a comfortable 27-8 win over Menzieshill Whitehall at Carnegie last night. Both teams were under strength due to the holiday weekend. Menzieshill fielded a very young goalkeeper but, although this may have affected the margin of the win, Dunfermline were well on top overall. Team (& goals) :Simon Metcalfe; Neil Comerford (1); Davie Pettigrew; Davie Stewart; Paul Metcalfe; Andrew Woodall (3); Stewart Carlisle (6); Graeme Morrison (5); Ali Campbell (7); Calum Fraser (5). " Special mention requested for Stewart's six goals - apparently he rarely gets one!"
01 Apr 07	Croatia take 1st World Championship title It took extra time for Croatia to beat Hungary 9-8 in Melbourne for their first World Championship. Spain beat World Cup winners Serbia for the Bronze in an even closer game - the 20th shot in a sudden death penalty shoot-out
31 Mar 07	Player Support "In the current budget there is provision for limited financial support to top level players. To enable the SWPC to best manage these funds could each club please provide me with the following information." Ken Fussell List of players currently involved with GB squads. List of known GB Squad events the players will attend List of potential GB Squad events the players may attend List of other players who may soon become involved with GB squads. List of coaches/managers currently involved with GB squads. List of players/coaches/managers currently involved with RTC events in England
30 Mar 07	Referees' Expenses Referees expenses for the current National League events to be entered onto the appropriate SASA expenses form and forwarded to Roddy MacKay, 4 Laxford Crescent, Dalgety Bay KY11 9TX
27 Mar 07	East District The East District of the SASA celebrates its Centenary this year. Commemorative events are proposed including a multi-discipline Gala and a Social event. The next ED Delegates meeting will be held at St Margaret's School, Livingston on Thursday 19 April at 7.30p.m. The April Meeting will include a presentation by Richard Gordon, Scottish Swimming, on the new UK structure for Coaches and Teachers
24 Mar 07	David Barr I was speaking to the Club's first coach, David Barr, yesterday and he was keen to hear all about our continued success. The Badger asked to be remembered to all his old friends and wishes the Club all the best. He was sorry that he was not able to be at Dougie Campbell's leaving do but hopes there will be another social occasion soon when he can catch up with everybody. G.S.
23 Mar 07	RTC Competition Days In a GB National Academy (u/14) Competition days next weekend at Walsall Dunfermline will be represented by 9 players who will begin their quest for inclusion into the future GB Youth squad. viz. Girls - Nicola Tate Boys - Darren Campbell; Christopher Campbell; Zach Thomson; Jake Hinley; Jordan Wood; Andrew Melville; Joe Thomson & Craig Wilkinson.
23 Mar 07	Scottish Swimming Membership renewals In order to assist members and clubs to complete their membership renewals and to further clarify the new aquatic membership groupings that were introduced at the AGM, Scottish Swimming have created a Membership Grouping Document for reference.
23 Mar 07	Scottish National League The Club's U17 team beat Eat Dunbartonshire 23 - 15 at Carnegie Centre on Sunday Report
23Mar 07	International Age Groups The Fina Water Polo Congress, held this morning in Melbourne, voted to change the Age group qualification for the Junior Men's and Women's World Championships from January 1st 2008 lowering the current age of 20 years and under to 18 years and under. This will mean that the 2009 Junior Men's and Women's Championships would be held for athletes born 1991 or later. 13 Federations who voted against the change. Note : The club secretary asked GB National Performance Director, Nick Hume, what effect the changes would have on GB. He responded that the new age groups will certainly have a knock on effect to all GB the programmes and the implications are being worked hrough now.
21 Mar 07	ASA Competition Draws (updated) Details, of the ASA Cup draws updated Senior Men : Leeds vs DWPC - to be played by 22 April 2007 with the winners playing Rotherham away Junior Men (1989+) : Sutton & Cheam vs DWPC - to be played at Walsall on Sat 21 April 2007 time TBA. The winners will play Exeter, Leeds or Birmingham in the Semi-finals on 30 June with the final the following day both at Manchester. Lancaster, Invicta, Cheltenham & Manchester, probably the strongest teams, are all in the other half of the draw although with GB Juniors due in Poland on the weekend of the first round teams may be weakened. Youth Men (1991+) : Manchester B vs DWPC - to be played at Walsall on Sun 22 April The winners play Lancaster or Birmingham in the second round at Walsall on Sat 28 April Portobello have not entered the Senior competition and Menzieshill have not entered any of the Ladies competitions. Therefore we are the only Scottish Club participating in the ASA Cup competitions this year. All matches are expected to be very difficult for our relatively young squad although our younger players will benefit from the experience. DWPC's Julia Mackay will be competing with her National League club Harrogate who have a bye through to the quarter final stage and play Penguin A at Home. Championship conditions
13 Mar 07	Manchester's European water polo website goes live The website for the 2007 European Nations Trophy is up and running. The event takes place 8 - 15 July in Manchester Aquatic Centre. Draw will be made on 30 March. Tickets on sale 10 April.
17 Mar 07	RTC weekend at Walsall The Club have one girl and eight boys attending the forthcoming RTC Competition days at Walsall. RTC information is now available via the ASA Website
17 Mar 07	Timing Equipment The manual for the Eraton Timing Equipment has been added to the Resources
7 Mar 07	International Age Groups This article is on New Zealand site, presumably on the assumption that it will be a FINA change rather than just LEN. Can't find confirmation on LEN or FINA sites. Expected that International age groups are to be reduced by 2 years.
17 Mar 07	Scottish Masters The Scottish Masters Open Short Course Championships 2007, which takes place on 20 and 21 April have a closing date of next Friday 23 March. If you are intending to participate please try and file your entries ASAP! You can download an entry form from the Scottish Masters web site.
14 Mar 07	Committee Meeeting re-scheduled The Club Committee Meeting rescheduled to be held on Monday 19 March will now be held on Monday 26 March, Carnegie Centre 7.30p.m. to accommodate an away fixture. Parents and Senior members are welcome as "observers".
13 Mar 07	CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP The Club are holding a Child Protection Course. Date: 23/04/07; Venue: Carnegie Centre; Time: 1830 - 2130 (correction); Cost - Free to SASA members A maximum of 20 can attend this course which is essential for anyone dealing with Children, bookings will be made on a first come basis. Please advise your name and contact no. should you be interested in attending.
13 Mar 07	Scottish National League The Club's U17 team drew 7 - 7 with Menzieshill Whitehall in Dundee last night. (updated) Report
13 Mar 07	National Leagues Updated version of Division 3 fixtures has been received
12 Mar 07	Water Polo player is inducted into the Scottish Sport Hall of Fame George Cornet, the only Scot in the Great Britain Gold Medal winning teams of the 1908 and 1912 Olympics was inducted into the Hall of Fame today. No relative could be contacted to collect the trophy and the Club's GB Junior, Alasdair Campbell, was invited to represent Cornet at the ceremony in the National Museum in Edinburgh. Photo sportscotland are seeking a descendant of Cornet (originally from Inverness) to take possession of the trophy.
12 Mar 07	Scottish National Leagues win The Club's U15 team beat Warrender 14-11 at Carnegie Centre last night. Report
11 Mar 07	National Leagues The fixtures for the 2007 National Leagues are now available.
11Mar 07	Scottish National Leagues "This is the final version of the SNL 2007 fixture list with referees attached for the remainder of the season, if any referee is unable to attend please advise me asap. If any game is postponed the postponing club must advise the allocated referee and myself, I will issue a cancellation number as per the rules. If a game is rearranged the original referee if possible will be appointed." Murray McLeod, Director of Technical Officials
09 Mar 07	Minutes The Scottish Swimming website now publishes the minutes of the GB Technical Water Polo Committee. Perhaps they may eventually be persuaded to publish the minutes of the Scottish Water Polo Committee.
08 Mar 07	CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP The Club are holding a Child Protection Course. Date: 23/04/07; Venue: Carnegie Centre; Time: 1830 - 2130 (correction); Cost - Free to SASA members A maximum of 20 can attend this course which is essential for anyone dealing with Children, bookings will be made on a first come basis. Please advise your name and contact no. should you be interested in attending.
08 Mar 07	Senior Training off Sunday 11 March 8p.m. U15 vs Warrender. There will be no Senior training on that evening.
08 Mar 07	SASA Volunteer Questionnaire "The Volunteer Development Manager is compiling information on Volunteers. It will be important for us in Water Polo to be counted and involved in the process. Can ALL polo volunteers fill in the questionnaire via the link below and pass it onto any other folk who do things for Water Polo. It will only take a few minutes. When you fill in the question on your "Name of Club" put "Water Polo" in the Club name somewhere that way all the Polo responses can be identified. Volunteers from committee members both Club & SWPC, coaches, team managers, team captains, Uni team captains, referees, table officials, parents who drive the players to games - all of us. PLEASE COMPLETE BEFORE FRIDAY 16th MARCH." Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
08 Mar 07	Aquatic Ages Scottish Swimming advice on age groups for 2007-8 :- "Please be advised that in 2007/2008, the membership year commences on the 1st March 2007. Therefore, aquatic ages are as at the start of the membership year i.e. 1st March."
08 Mar 07	Scottish Universities teams for Celtic Nations Dunfermline players feature in the Scot Uni's teams for this years Celtic Nations Contest on 14th April Men : *Graeme Morrison* (Aberdeen); *Mark Speed* (Aberdeen); *Neil Comerford* (Heriot Watt); Fabio Labate (Glasgow); Tom Crammond (St Andrews); Tom Gaunt (St Andrews); Davide Rodogno (St Andrews); David Fleming (St Andrews); David Armstrong (Edinburgh); Ben Johnston (Edinburgh); James Scobie (Edinburgh); Ross Johnston (Edinburgh); John Faben (Edinburgh) Coach: Keith Anderson (Portobello) Women: Julia MacKay (Stirling); Denise Breslin (RGU); Laura Mathewson (Dundee); Ailsa Docherty (Queen Margaret); Alison Lonie (Edinburgh); Claire Gambles (Edinburgh); Emma Watson (Edinburgh); Heather McLaughlin (Edinburgh); Katie Matthews (Edinburgh); Lucy MacGregor (Edinburgh); Maggie Ziriax (Edinburgh); Naomi Murdoch (Edinburgh); Vicky Miller (Edinburgh) Coach: Derek Docherty (Warrender) Paul Metcalfe
07 Mar 07	League result Last night's u/17 match last resulted in a narrow defeat - DWPC 7 Menzieshill 8 - Report
06 Mar 07	Lancaster websites There are now separate sites for Lancaster City AS & WPC Swimming and Water Polo sections.
06 Mar 07	National Leagues The dates and venues for the 2007 National Leagues are now available. The full fixture list will be published at a later date.
05 Mar 07	League result Dunfermline drew 5-5 with Menzieshill in a very close and exciting 1992+ National League match at Dundee. Unfortunately as Menzieshill fielded an over-age player the points should be awarded to Dunfermline. Report
04 Mar 07	SASA Fees All first claim members of DWPC are required to pay SASA Fees, failure to pay your SASA fees means you cannot train with the club and you certainly cannot play in matches without a valid SASA Membership No. Should you be a member of a swimming club you will likely be first claim with them and your SASA fee will be paid through them. Category and fees are as follows: > Aquatic 1: £6.00 - A member under 8yrs (as at 31st December 2007) > Aquatic 2: £14.00 - A member 8yrs and under 11yrs (as at 31st December 2007) > Aquatic 3: £27.25 - A member 11yrs and over (as at 31st December 2007) > Club Volunteer: £5.00 - A member of the committee or someone in a supporting role > Technical Officials: £10.00 - Timekeeper, Judge, Starter, Referee, Recorder, etc. > Teacher/Coach: £10.00 - Swim Teacher, Coach, Poolside Helper The Club will collect all fees then pass them on to Scottish Swimming, cheques should therefore be made out to 'DWPC'. If you're in any doubt as to which category you fall into, contact Club Secretary Brian Campbell
04 Mar 07	Scottish National Leagues updated Timetable Members should note home fixtures as training sessions may be disrupted - updated information will be on the Web site news page. Brian Campbell "That completes the Central round of games and the Home/Away round will start this week. Thanks to the following that helped out on the pool side at Stirling over the 3 weekends. The Regulars :Ken Fussell; Murray McLeod; Derek Docherty ;Jim Scobie; Peter Armstrong; David Armstrong; Paul Metcalfe; Roddy Mackay; Stewart Carlise. The Extras : Ailsa Docherty; Brian Campbell; Julia Mackay; Alasdair Slefor; Iona Duncan; Jamie Murray; C. Woodall; David James-Rae; Chris Mason; Ewan Martin". Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
02 Mar 07	British Championship highlights on TV and Web "Highlights of the British Water Polo Championship Finals will be shown on Channel M on Tuesday 6 March. Channel M's Sports Central, presented by Claire Dixon, will feature coverage from the women's finals with particular focus on the Bronze play-off between Manchester and Penguin. Broadcast on Manchester's local television station Channel M, Sports Central aims to show the dynamic sport scene of Manchester: the venues, the athletes and the coaches that compete with the best in the world. The British Water Polo Championships took place at the Manchester Aquatics Centre on 24 and 25 February. The programme will be broadcast on Tuesday 6 March at 7.30pm, Wed 7 March at 10.30am, 3.30pm, and 7.30pm, Saturday 10 March at 11am and 1.30pm and Sunday 11th March at 12.30pm. You can view the programme on the following channels or online at www.channelm.co.uk/sport: SKY digital channel 203 NTL digital channel 878 free to air 39.615 MHz. " Amanda Smith, Media Officer, British Swimming
02 Mar 07	GB Squad Selections Congratulations to Robert Tate and Andrew Woodall who have been selected for the GB Youth squad. This brings the total number of Club Members in GB Squads to five.
02 Mar 07	League call-offs "I have been contacted by 3 of the Men's teams due to play over the next few days saying that they cannot get teams for their games. Portobello are struck with injury and players at BUSA; Warrender have players at BUSA; Menzieshill have players at a swim gala. The following games will be rescheduled. Dunfermline vs Portobello; Warrender vs Menzieshill; Western Baths vs Portobello. Also next Sunday's Warrender vs Dunfermline. That leaves 2 games to play over the next few days - Sunday : East Dunbartonshire vs Warrender U17; Monday : Menzieshill vs Dunfermline U15. Can these teams please confirm their availability." Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
01 Mar 07	Committee Meeeting re-scheduled The Club Committee Meeting due to be held on Monday 5 March will now be held on Monday 19 March, Carnegie Centre 7.30p.m. to accommodate an away fixture. Parents and Senior members are welcome as "observers".
27 Feb 07	RTC Spring Competition Weekend GIRLS: Saturday 31st March BOYS: Sunday 1st April. Both Competition Days will be held at Walsall Gala Baths from 10am to 5pm Walsall Gala Baths. If you wish to take part please contact your RTC Administrator by 2nd March 2007 (very short notice but this information just received by me. G.S.)
26 Feb 07	Water Polo in Aberdeen Just noticed that Aberdeen City Council offered free water polo to youngsters over the mid-term long weekend. There were sessions for 5-8, 9-12 and 13-16 year olds. The sessions were part of the city's Big Lottery Fund New Opportunities Project. Another block of sessions is scheduled for Easter. Let's hope it sparked an interest and we can look forward to some new participants in the sport in Scotland. G.S.
26 Feb 07	League Wins Dunfermline recorded victories in three leagues at the weekend. The U15 team beat Warrender 26-20, the Seniors beat Western 28-6 and the U17s beat Warrender 16-7 (Reports)
26 Feb 07	British Championship Finals Lancaster reign supreme. They retained their British Championship title at Manchester yesterday. On Saturday they beat Portobello in the semi-final then overcame Rotherham, conquerors of Cheltenham in the other semi-final. Portobello were looking good for the bronze until Keith Anderson suffered yet another shoulder dislocation and Cheltenham won 19-14. Sheffield beat Liverpool to take the Women's Championship with Manchester taking bronze by beating Penguin. (Reports).
25 Feb 07	Awards Congratulations to Bruce Henderson - Menzieshill & Whitehall S & WPC, Scottish Senior Water Polo Player of the Year and *Alasdair Campbell* - Dunfermline WPC, Scottish Junior Water Polo Player of the Year, for 2006 The awards are for players who have done the most to enhance or uphold the prestige of Scottish water polo during the year. (Photo)
24 Feb 07	Leagues Dunfermline WPC Men beat Warrender 17-10 in the morning's match. Robert Tate notched his first goals for the senior team with a double.
21 Feb 07	Scottish National Leagues this weekend (corrected) Here is the schedule for games to be played this weekend. Saturday 24th Feb : 10:00 Men Dunfermline vs Warrender Sunday 25th Feb : Morning session there will be 2 games played simultaneously. 9:30 U15 Warrender vs Dunfermline 9:30 Men Dunfermline vs Western Baths Sunday 25th Feb : Afternoon session 12:00 U17 Warrender vs Dunfermline 13:15 Men Western Baths vs Menzieshill Correction 14:30 Women Western Baths vs Menzieshill. Correction Ken Fussell has put out an appeal for officials for the Sunday sessions.
20 Feb 07	Scottish National Leagues this weekend "Are any teams available to play on Sat afternoon? Let me know and I'll sort out the games. Generally there are too many conflicts that day. If anyone knows of a group who would like to use the pool let me know. So far the Men's Dunfermline vs Warrender game is scheduled for 10:00 am. I am tempted to play a U17 Dunfermline vs Menzieshill game at the same time. Let me know your thoughts. In the afternoon there is only one game scheduled Women's Menzieshill vs Western Baths, though I am struggling to get enough players for Western." Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
19 Feb 07	Portobello qualify for 2007 British Championship Finals "Even during the turmoil enveloping the senior water polo team as a result of the ASA year ban, Portobello have progressed to the finals of the GB Championships. An excellent weekend's water polo saw Portobello come a close second to Cheltenham in the qualifying section of the championships, and as a result will see Portobello face defending champions Lancaster in the semi final encounter next weekend 24th February." Alan Anderson POASC Portobello lost 16-17 to Cheltenham but beat Polytechnic 14-10 and Manchester 13-10. Good luck at the Finals.
18 Feb 07	Well Done Congratulations to Gregor Smith who has been selected for the Scotland 11 & under Ice Hockey squad.
18 Feb 07	Dunfermline Men and Women win SNL matches The Senior Men beat Menzieshill Whitehall 13 - 11 and the Women had a 20 - 6 win over Glasgow Western at Stirling. Results and tables to date
17 Feb 07	Comfortable win for Dunfermline Despite fielding a weakened side, where all bar 2 of their team under 13 yrs old, Dunfermline defeated East Dunbartonshire in the 17 & under National League at Stirling by 17-10. (Report)
16 Feb 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Meeting The next meeting of the SWPC will be held on 1 March 2007 at 19.00 in the Seminar Room, National Swimming Academy, Stirling. Any member wishing matters to be raised should inform the club delegate, Roddy Mackay, or the Club Secretary.
16 Feb 07	SNL Referees - URGENT "I have just been advised by Ken Fussell that it would appear an email I sent on Tuesday evening has not reached targets. Will the undernoted officials please report on 17th February 2007 as follows:- Morning Session - Murray McLeod, Derek Docherty, Stewart Carlile, Paul Metcalfe, David Armstrong Peter Armstrong, Jim Scobie, Alan Kerr Afternoon Session - As morning but substitute Ken Fussell for Murray McLeod. " Murray McLeod DOTO
15 Feb 07	Match Postponed Dunfermline's u/17 match with Menzieshill on Saturday morning has been cancelled. With the setting-up of the pool for water polo taking over 20mins it is not possible to play the planned number of matches. Our match vs East Dunbartonshire proceeds with a 10.30am start.
13 Feb 07	East District Meeting Delegates Meeting (Agenda DOC file) - 15th Feb. New procedures for East District delegates meeting (flyer DOC file). Anyone interested in attending on behalf of the Club should contact the Secretary. Previous minutes and copies of reports are available from the Secretary on request.
13 Feb 07	SASA AGM & Congress Reminder of the SASA Congress & AGM -anyone interested in attending as a Club Delegate to contact the Secretary. "The SASA Congress & Annual General meeting and the SASA Limited Annual General Meeting are being held on Saturday 24th February 2007, commencing at 10.00am prompt at the Carnoustie Golf Course Hotel & Resort, Carnoustie. Three delegates from each Affiliated Club, SASA Life Members, Council Members, Board Directors, Individual Members and Convenors of Standing Committees of the Company shall be entitled to attend, take part in the proceedings and vote."
12 Feb 07	Scottish National League The Club made a good start to the National League this season with both the Ladies & Under 15 teams recording wins against Menzieshill Whitehall. In the first match the Club's Ladies team, who have reformed this year after several years absence, defeated the holders by 16-8 despite being behind 6-5 after two quarters. Top scorer was Julia Mackay with six goals. In the second match the Club's under-15 team defeated Menzieshill by 20-15 with eleven goals from Christopher Campbell, four from Darren Campbell, two each from Zach Thomson & Jordan Wood and one from Edward Haroun, his first for the Club. (Report)
10 Feb 07	Portobello appeal The Daily Express reports in an article today that Portobello have enlisted the assistance of local MP Gavin Strang to help them fight the ASA Disciplinary ruling which has banned them from the ASA Cup & National League during 2007. We have no information when the hearing will take place. Portobello, and water polo was discussed in the House of Commons too at the end of last month. The *Evening News* carried a version of events as well.
09 Feb 07	Scottish National League "The following officials please report on Sunday for 8.45am - Murray McLeod, Ken Fussell, Derek Docherty, Stewart Carlile, Paul Metcalfe, David Armstrong, Jim Scobie, Alan Kerr. Should any others be available please contact me, your input will be welcome. I intend to issue the full season draw on Sunday and will speak to all officials then to see if they have any problems. " Murray McLeod, DTO
06 Feb 07	ASA Championships The deadline date for entries for the ASA Competitions has been extended to 24 February 2007, the return date on the entry form appears to be incorrect and the new address will be included on revised forms which are due to be issued. We have already submitted our entry (& cheque) and will confirm receipt with ASA prior to this new deadline.
05 Feb 07	Club Entries The Scottish National League fixtures have been issued. We have entered the Senior Men & Ladies, U/17 & U/15 Leagues. Please note the dates as training from 8pm - 9.30pm will be cancelled when a match is being played. The session from 7pm - 8pm will be held as normal. Those not playing and their parents / friends are welcome to come along and support the team. Team Managers will be in touch to advise those selected for the team and co-ordinate transport. Anyone interested and available to help man the table should pass their name to me - training will be provided. The Club have confirmed that we shall be entering the ASA Championships this year and will be competing in the Senior Men, Junior & Youth Boys competitions
04 Feb 07	Scottish National League The Domestic Convener has issued an updated timetable. Please lat Ken know ASAP if there are problems with the draw
03 Feb 07	Club Trunks The new Club Water Polo trunks have arrived. The final cost is £20 each and payment should be made on receipt. They will be available at the next Club session. (Thanks to Sylvia and Julia Mackay for all their efforts in organising the supply of these very attractive trunks.)
02 Feb 07	Newsletter The January edition of the British Water Polo Newsletter has been released. (PDF)
01 Feb 07	ASA Championships We have now received clarification of the player eligibility information for the ASA Cup this year from Mike Coles - As the rules stand a player can only play for 1 club in a calendar year, so a junior CANNOT play for one junior club and a different senior club in the same calendar year
31 Jan 07	It does take a special kind of person! "NOW ALL USA WATER POLO COACHES MUST BE CERTIFIED!" Quote from USA Waterpolo Coaching page
28 Jan 07	ASA Championships The Club has received an entry form for the ASA Cup with replies due by 11 February, matches can be expected soon afterwards, the details are :- 2007 Cup competitions are - SENIOR MEN; SENIOR WOMEN; JUNIOR MEN; JUNIOR WOMEN; YOUTH MEN & YOUTH WOMEN The senior competition will be run with the initial rounds being played on a Home OR Away basis. The draw for the opening rounds with Division One National Women Water Polo League and Division One Men's National League Teams being seeded and shall receive a bye from the opening round. The Junior Competition will be run on a home and/or away basis (dependant on entries) with the two-year age group banded (1989 & 90). In 2008 the junior competition is intended to be run as a league. The Youth Age Group for this year will include both Youth and Academy Year Age Groups, i.e. 1991-1994. This competition will be staged at a central venue, format dependant on entry numbers. In 2008 the age groups shall be run separately. The semis and finals of the Junior and Senior competitions will be held on June 30th/July 1st at Manchester Aquatics Centre. In 2007 all national team squad members will be able to play in the various competitions, however, please note they will be first claim to the National programme during this period (currently the June 30th finals weekend will only effect the Senior men national team members). Please see the 2007 International Calendar on Water Polo's World Class page on British Swimming web site. Please note in your diaries that the men's European 'B' Championships shall be staged in Manchester July 8-15th. The Club will decide upon our entries in the next few days.
27 Jan 07	Update from the Secretary GB : Congratulations to Alasdair Campbell on his official selection to the GB Junior squad, to Toni Bonnar and Jamie Hinley on their selection to the GB Women's Youth Squad(1991). The Youth Boys squad has not yet been selected and we have Andrew Woodall and Robert Tate attending the trials. Alasdair will be competing in Kranj, Slovenia in early May with the Junior team as they attempt to qualify for the European Championships which will be held in Malta during August. GB's group includes France, Slovenia, Portugal, Austria & Belgium and two teams will qualify for the finals. RTC Scotland : The following has been confirmed - Until further notice the Academy squad (1993 & 1994) will train for the first 1.5hrs and the Youth squad (1991/1992) for the last 1.5hrs. The session times this Sunday at the Carnegie Centre are therefore Academy : 1 - 2.30pm & Youth : 1.30pm - 3pm. The cost for the first term is £35 per player, those that paid at the first session should reduce the £35 total by the amount paid. As the numbers attending the RTC have still to be confirmed there will be no reductions at present for those not attending the full term, Murray has advised however that any surplus may be redistributed to those attending GB training - remember to advise Murray of the reason for missing a session An Academy (1993/1994)competition day is being held at Walsall, 10am - 5pm, on Saturday 31 March (girls) & Sunday 1 April (boys). Those wishing to attend should advise Murray by 28 February 2007 as the entry cut-off date is 2 March 2007. No expenses are paid for this and those from the Club wishing to attend should advise me so that travel arrangements can be co-ordinated. Scottish National Leagues : Fixtures are now on the website, we have entered the following competitions, squad lists will be issued shortly - > Academy - 1992+ (mixed sex) > Youth - 1991 (boys) & 1989 (girls) > Senior Men > Women = we are considering entering this League which will now be a Club competition rather than a 'training exercise' - a Coach is required for this team should we confirm our entry, anyone interested should advise me. Membership Fees : These are now overdue, if not already paid, and should be paid at the next session (£25 for all members). This amount largely covers the cost of entering Scottish competitions and Club affiliation fees, prompt payment avoids the Club experiencing cash flow problems. UKCC Coaching Course : A new UK wide coaching scheme came into force in January and replaces the old system. The Club will be considering running a Level 1 course during the year and will seek financial assistance to minimise the cost to our Members. The maximum numbers permissible is 16, please advise if you are interested in attending. A scheme may be introduced whereby members can obtain a refund of part or all of the fees by coaching at Club sessions. Training : Generally the Development and Youth sessions are being well attended with the Seniors slow to return. The new squad times discussed at the AGM have not yet been implemented, should Seniors attendance increase these changes may be implemented.
26 Jan 07	Scottish National League The Domestic Convener has issued timetable for the games to be played at Stirling in the next few weeks. He has also circulated Issue #1 of the Fixtures List.
25 Jan 07	SNL Age Groups Two clubs are struggling to field teams with players within the current age limits - East Dunbartonshire U/16 and Warrender U14. In order to maintain a reasonable number of teams in each League I propose to take up Brian Campbell’s proposal to increase the age limits to Under 17 boys/Under 18 girls (1990 males/1989 females Mixed) Under 15 boys and girls (1992 Mixed) I have left the females to still be U/18 (1989) Can the relevant Club representatives please reply to me ASAP with their views and hopefully acceptance on this proposal. I will then put the draw out. Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
24 Jan 07	Scottish National League I'm afraid we will not be using the pool time booked for this weekend. I can't get two teams available at the same time due to other events. Ken Fussell, Domestic Co-ordinator
23 Jan 07	National Women's Water Polo League - Div 1 / Div 2 Play-offs Play-offs took place at Walsall at the weekend. Julia Mackay and her Harrogate team won all three games which ensures their promotion to Division1 next season. On Saturday they beat Coventry (who finished 7th in Division 1) 16 - 5 and then beat Manchester "B" in an extremely tense and physical encounter 12 - 9. On Sunday they beat Haywards Heath 13 - 5. Manchester "B" beat both Coventry and Haywards to also secure promotion. Coventry beat Haywards to claim the 9th place in Division 1 for next season. Julia managed to score 9 goals to add to her tally for the season, with 5 of them coming in the game with Manchester"B". She also added to her number of exclusions so has probably topped the major queens list!!! On reflection it was a thoroughly entertaining weekend. They now look forward to making progress in Division 1 in the autumn. Roddy Mackay
22 Jan 07	National Women's Water Polo League Caledonia lost by a single goal in their last two Div 3 matches at Manchester last weekend and finished mid-table.
21 Jan 07	Regional Training Centre The first Scottish Regional Training Centre Took Place on Saturday 20th January in Carnegie Baths Dunfermline under the instruction of Lead Coach Alan Donaldson. Also present were; Murray McLeod (Scottish RTC Administrator) and Brian Campbell (Assistant Coach) whilst Graeme Brown, Jim Don and Bruce Henderson (all Menzieshill Whitehall) all volunteered to assist Alan, Brian and Murray in the staffing of the RTC, full details of staffing will be issued in due course. The staff present were encouraged with the turnout of 19 polo players. Another 3 who had GB commitments are known to be available for next week. These players will form the basis of the first Scottish RTC squad and details of the squad plus revised training times and schedule will be posted shortly on this page. There is room for more attendees and it should be noted that the 23 in the present squad come from 2 clubs only (Dunfermline and Menzieshill Whitehall), the administrator will write again to all clubs in an attempt to gain further club support. However a big well done and thanks to all those that took part in the first session and now form the first squad.Could all parties please note that Murray McLeod home email account has been problematic and he has therefore set up an email for RTC purpose only which is rtcscotland@fsmail.net please should you have any queries contact Murray at this new RTC dedicated email address. Best wishes to all, RTCScotland Team Staff
18 Jan 07	NWPL AGM 2007 David Baxter reports that this year's AGM was very straightforward. There was discussion on the escalating costs of travelling expenses for referees and table officials. Each club will be asked to provide a list of officials so that travel costs can be minimised. The position regarding Portobello was also discussed. The ASA is aware of the urgency for hearing Portobello's appeal against suspension for 2007. There are various options to be considered if the appeal fails.
13 Jan 07	Scottish National League proposals The Domestic Co-ordinator has issued proposals for the 2007 leagues along with a calendar Costs to the Club will be very high. Note: "The Club Committee are currently considering the proposals and a decision on our entries will be made over the next few days. A further complication is the late issue of entry information for the various ASA Competitions which may lead to a clash of dates" B.M.Campbell
12 Jan 07	Club Water Polo costumes The Club has organised water polo trunks with the club logo printed onto them and Julia Mackay is currently taking orders for them, she has a sizing kit to ensure that the correct size can be ordered. Although not mandatory we would urge you to consider purchasing a pair - they are much more hard wearing that normal swimming trunks which are likely to be ripped in a match. The cost will be confirmed after we confirm numbers & is likely to be in the region of £18 for boys & £40 for girls. Julia would hope to confirm the order by Sunday 21 January 2006 with delivery usually three weeks later. Be quick if you do not wish to miss out.
11 Jan 07	Regional Training Centre section As mentioned in the News item below we are to have a section on the website devoted to the Regional Training Centre. To make space for this I propose to drop the Scottish Universities pages. These pages were added a couple of years ago at the request of the Scottish Universities Water Polo Co-ordinator and were kept up to date with material supplied. However it is now some considerable time since any updates have been received. Nowadays the various Scottish Universities have their own Water Polo sites and it would appear that the pages on this site are no longer required. George Spowart
11 Jan 07	Scottish Swimming's Volunteer Strategy Consultation Upcoming Volunteer Development Strategy. The Strategy will aim to positively affect all of Scottish Swimming’s volunteers. Four key areas will be included; recruitment, retention, recognition and rewarding. For the strategy to be formed there is a volunteer questionnaire to ask for volunteers views.
11 Jan 07	Scottish Water Polo Committee Meeting The next meeting of the SWPC will be 18 January NSA Seminar Room 7-9pm. Members wishing matters raised at the meeting should contact the Roddy Mackay, Club Representative or the Club Secretary. Other dates are on the Calendar
10 Jan 07	Regional Training Centre You may recall that last June Nick Hume, the National Performance Director, visited Scotland and gave a presentation to Club members on the new set-up within British Water Polo. One of the main changes was the creation of Regional Training Centres (RTC's) for National Academy (13-14yrs) & Youth (15-16yrs) age groups (boys & girls). Around eight have been successfully operating in England for the past two years or so and it was Nick's stated hope that the first Scottish RTC would be set-up at HMS Caledonia for the first term of the new age groupings (September 2006), the Club also put forward names of potential Coaches and a Manager at that time & Murray McLeod, Menzieshill/Whitehall volunteered as the RTC Administrator. Players will be taught the basic skills required by the modern player and as sessions are issued centrally all players in GB should receive the same basic tuition at each RTC. Unfortunately nothing happened to bring this plan into reality and we missed out on the first term. With Term 2 looming and with HMS Caledonia not available as Scottish Swimming had failed to negotiate access, Murray, with the support of DWPC, considered other pools, in particular Glenrothes, unfortunately no reply has been obtained from them to hold the RTC there and, with time short, our suggestion that The Carnegie Centre be considered for term 2 was accepted. The Club has now received correspondence on the RTC from Murray and pdf copies of the letter to Players, letter to Officials and a flyer for RTC can be downloaded from the Club website, some copies will also be available at Club sessions. In the near future a specific RTC page on our website will be hosted to provide ongoing & up to date basic information on the RTC. Generally the RTC runs throughout the year for three terms of ten weeks each and is held for the National Academy & Youth Age groups which are currently 1993/1994 (Nat Acad) & 1991/1992 (Youth), as this is the start of the RTC certain players aged 1990 / 1991 may be admitted to the squads at the discretion of the Coach. The dates for Term 2 ( the first term in Scotland) are provided below. If interested in attending please advise either myself or Murray direct or turn-up on the first day (Sat 20 January 2007 at 2.30pm) which appears to be effectively a trial. Players will then be allocated to one of the two squads, which for the first few terms, may be based on ability rather than age. Should you have any queries please either contact myself or Murray direct - I would expect that all of our members within the above age range would qualify for inclusion in the R.T.C. squad and should attend if at all possible. Also if you know of anyone else interested in attending, perhaps with a Swimming Club, please pass the information to them. SCOTTISH R.T.C. Venue : Carnegie Leisure Centre, Pilmuir Street, Dunfermline KY12 0QE. Telephone – 01383 314200; Fax : 01383 314225 TERM 2 will run from 20 January to 31 March 2007 for National Academy (93/94) and Youth (90/92). Details and timetable in letter to Players
09 Jan 07	NWPL AGM 2007 : *AGM will take place at 11.00am on Sunday 14 January 2007 at the King George VI Memorial Hall, Hockley Heath. There are no substantial rule changes or changes in officers proposed.* David Baxter will represent Caledonia at AGM. Note - Division I club Portobello have been suspended from playing in England during 2007 following an ASA disciplinary hearing. However, we understand this is subject to an appeal so whilst it currently looks like Portobello may not be able to participate in Division I in 2007 this may change in due course
07 Jan 07	Club Re-opens Club sessions resume tonight after the winter break. Let's make this another successful year for the club.
01 Jan 07	Pan Pacific Waterpolo Cup The story so far (from Alasdair Campbell & John Vincent)
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Archived News 2007