After what seems forever, USA Water Polo competition returns to the East Coast—and it’s the first age group competition in the region offered by the national governing body for the sport since the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all sporting activity on Marc 11, 2020.

The only other USAWP-sanctioned competition was the Dare To Dream 12U tournament in Houston, Texas last January. Age group competition has been held safely throughout the country, most notably in Salt Lake City, where Shawn Stringham has held a number of well-attended tournaments.

[Stringham on Utah’s Salty Splash Tourney: Did it So Kids Could Play Water Polo]

The Clearwater Beach Challenge, to be held on May 15-16, is sponsored by Next Level Water Polo. Located at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center (1001 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767), the competition is open to multiple age groups: 12U & 14U Mixed, 16U & 18U Boys & Girls.

The tournament will feature 4 on 4 water polo—3 field players and a goalie—and will be played on the intracoastal waterway. Teams can expect to play a minimum of 4 games over the course of the 2 days. All play will be according to FINA Beach Water Polo Rules.

In 2019, the tournament’s first year, 32 teams from up and down the East Coast descended on Florida’s Gulf Coast for what was a fun and competitive event.

This year’s tournament has almost 40 teams and is drawing squads from as far north as New York City to the picturesque beaches of Tampa / St. Pete’s.

DETALS:
Entry Deadline: Thursday, April 29th, 2021 at 9PM (PT)**
Roster Deadline: Thursday, April 29th, 2021 at 9PM (PT)
Roster Lockdown: Thursday, May 6th, 2021 at 9PM (PT)

For more information, please go to USAWP Clearwater Challenge here