At KAP7, we are deeply committed to growing the sport of water polo and fostering its community worldwide. In 2019, we expanded our efforts to Vanuatu by introducing a unique water polo-inspired program, tailored to engage and inspire new athletes. Continuing our mission, we provided additional equipment in 2022 to support the program's growth and ensure participants had the tools to succeed. Most recently, in 2024, we returned to Vanuatu with three-time Olympian Keesja Gofers, bringing her expertise and passion to further elevate the program and inspire the next generation of water polo enthusiasts. KAP7 remains dedicated to spreading the joy of this incredible sport across the globe. Read about our most recent journey below.
In 2019, I had the privilege of joining the Vanuatu Aquatics Federation to help launch the pilot program for ‘Spider Polo’, a unique and transformative take on water polo. Developed with support from Water Polo Australia, Spider Polo isn’t just about sport—it’s a vehicle for change. In Vanuatu, where issues like gender equality remain deeply entrenched, this modified version of water polo uses teamwork and collaboration to deliver powerful social messages. It’s a game where every player learns to value their teammates, regardless of differences, and recognize the strength in working together.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear this would be one of the most memorable water polo adventures of my life. Sessions were held on stunning local beaches, framed by breathtaking island scenery that seemed almost too beautiful to be real. We traveled to remote villages to introduce water polo to people who had never seen the sport before, and the joy and curiosity in their eyes made every moment unforgettable.
After the initial success of the program, I stayed in touch with Nancy Miyake, the inspiring President of Vanuatu Aquatics. Unfortunately, the pandemic brought much of their aquatics programming to a halt, Spider Polo included. While we sent equipment in 2022 to support their recovery, Nancy knew they needed a fresh push to reignite the program. So, earlier this year, when she reached out to invite me back to work with a new generation of Spider Polo coaches, I couldn’t say yes fast enough.
The week was intense, rewarding, and full of surprises. Mornings were spent training the coaches, many of whom were former participants from the 2019 pilot program. We dived deep into the Spider Polo handbook, not only breaking down the drills and skills but also exploring how to convey the social messages embedded in each session.
What struck me most was the shift in leadership. Back in 2019, there was just one female coach in attendance. Fast forward to 2024, and every single coach in the workshop was female. It was an incredible testament to the program’s impact, with women stepping confidently into leadership roles to guide the next generation.
One of the most surreal experiences came mid-week when we traveled by boat to a remote village accessible only by water. This village had no power, no running water—just a strong sense of community and stunning natural surroundings. Setting up inflatable water polo goals in such a setting felt almost dreamlike. Watching the new coaches lead sessions there, with local children diving into the game for the first time, was nothing short of magical.
Working with Vanuatu Aquatics is a humbling reminder of how powerful sport can be beyond the competition bubble. As a coach, it’s easy to get caught up in the relentless pursuit of performance and results. But in Vanuatu, it wasn’t about medals or rankings—it was about pure joy. Seeing kids light up as they played in the water reminded me of why we all fell in love with this sport in the first place.
Nancy and her team have done incredible work, creating meaningful programs with very limited resources. Spider Polo is just one example of their ingenuity and dedication, and I feel lucky to have been part of their journey.
A big shoutout to KAP7 for donating balls, caps, and pumps to help Spider Polo continue to grow—not just in Vanuatu but potentially across Oceania. Programs like this are a testament to what’s possible when sport is used as a tool for connection, empowerment, and joy.
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