Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Magpies Make History with Eighth Australian Water Polo League Title
Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Water Polo men's team become the most successful team in the sports history.
Published on the 07 April 2025
The Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Magpies have etched their name in Australian water polo history, securing a record-breaking eighth Australian Waterpolo League (AWL) title, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the sport’s history.Ìý
The team, featuring current students Matt Byrnes, John Hedges, and Tim Putt, alongside former Â鶹Éçmadou students Nathan Power, Angus Lambie, Mike de Gail (team captain), and Jean-Luc Poidevin, triumphed in a thrilling final. In the semi-final, the Magpies faced their cross-town rivals, the Sydney Uni Lions, clinching a 12-8 victory to secure their spot in the grand final.
The grand final saw the Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Magpies face off against the UWA Torpedoes in a hotly contested match. The first quarter was a challenging one for the Magpies, with the Torpedoes surging ahead to an early 6-3 lead. However, the Magpies were not fazed and showed remarkable resolve as they began to claw their way back.
The second quarter witnessed a dramatic turnaround. A goal from Olympian Jarrod Gilchrist, in his 300th game, levelled the scores at 11-11 heading into the half-time break. The momentum had shifted, and the Magpies had found their rhythm. An evenly matched third quarter saw both teams exchange goals, with the Magpies holding onto a slim one-goal lead heading into the final period. The intensity of the game was palpable, but it was in the fourth quarter that the Magpies truly stepped up. With their eyes firmly set on the title, the team delivered a dominant performance, scoring six goals in the final quarter to secure a 23-18 win and claim their eighth AWL title.
Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Water Polo Men's team celebrating their 8th title
John Hedges played a crucial role in both the semi-final and the final, making several incredible saves that kept the Magpies in contention. His performances were instrumental in ensuring the team stayed afloat during critical moments of both matches. Additionally, Nathan Power and Matt Byrnes were named to the AWL 2025 All Stars team, an honour that highlights their outstanding performances throughout the season. Their contributions were pivotal in the Magpies’ success, with Power’s experience and leadership, combined with Byrnes’ goalscoring abilities, proving to be a winning combination.
This victory is another remarkable achievement for the Â鶹Éçmadou Wests Magpies, who continue to set the benchmark in Australian water polo. As they celebrate their eighth title, the Magpies have once again proven that they are the undisputed kings of Australian water polo.Ìý