The
Howard University water polo team begins play this weekend at George Washington
Washington,
D.C. - October 29, 2024 - Building on the success of Howard University's swim
and dive team, USA Water Polo and Diversity In Aquatics have joined forces to
support the relaunch of the university's co-ed water polo team. With a generous
$8,000 grant from USA Water Polo, this initiative represents a significant leap
toward supporting expanded aquatic programming at HBCUs and promoting
diversity, equity, and inclusion within aquatic sports.
This
effort to revive the co-ed water polo program at Howard University resulted
from a dynamic collaboration between Diversity In Aquatics and USA Water Polo,
led by Howard University junior Colin McMahon. As a former high school water
polo player, McMahon's passion for the sport and his drive to see it flourish
at Howard were strongly supported by Diversity In Aquatics board member and UC
Irvine's Associate Athletic Director, Health, Wellness & Sports
Performance, John Abdou. Abdou, a leader in water polo and a champion for
diversity and inclusion, worked closely with McMahon to bring this vision to
fruition.
"We
are thrilled to partner with Diversity In Aquatics and Howard University to
re-establish their co-ed water polo team," said John Abdou, Board Member
of Diversity In Aquatics. "This initiative not only broadens student
opportunities but also reinforces our shared commitment to diversifying the
aquatics space and creating more inclusive, accessible pathways for all."
The
addition of a co-ed water polo team, supported by Howard University's Campus
Recreation, significantly enhances Howard University's club offerings and
creates a space for students to build community around the pool. "We are excited to expand our club
sports program offerings as a part of Campus Activities with the support of USA
Water Polo and Diversity In Aquatics," said Dr. Watson, Howard
University's Club Sports Director. "This initiative will enrich our
students' campus experience, offering new avenues for engagement, growth, and
leadership within aquatics."
The
$8,000 grant will provide essential resources, including equipment, coaching,
and training facilities, ensuring the team has the support needed to succeed
and grow. The Water Polo Club would also like to thank Malmsten for the water
polo goal.
The
relaunch of the co-ed water polo team is just the beginning.
"USA
Water Polo is proud to support Howard University's relaunch of their co-ed
water polo program with this grant. This initiative underscores our commitment
to breaking barriers in aquatics and fostering an inclusive environment where
students and athletes have the opportunity to participate and thrive at HBCUs
and beyond." Eva Padilla Sfregola, USA Water Polo Chief Development
Officer and DEI Development Grant Committee member.
Both USA
Water Polo and Diversity In Aquatics remain committed to expanding access to
aquatic sports for marginalized and underrepresented communities, allowing
everyone to learn, compete, and enjoy the benefits of water sports. If you are
in the DC area, support the program at its next tournament, Sunday, November
3rd at the Charles E. Smith Center on George Washington University's campus 600
22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20052, United States.
If you
want to donate or learn more about the Howard University Water Polo Club,
please email info@diversityinaquatics.org.
For more
information, please contact:
Adrianne
Carter
Diversity
In Aquatics
Email: info@diversityinaquatics.org
No comments:
Post a Comment