Irvine, CA - September 17 - Based on the most recent safety assessments and in compliance with current health directives, USA Water Polo (USAWP) has announced the cancellation of the 2020 Junior Olympics, 2020 Rock-tober PCA 12 & Under Classic and 2020 Champions Cup.
In order to encourage competitions where health directives indicate that play can continue safely, USA Water Polo is offering complimentary tournament sanctions as well as additional resources for any member club able to host a safe, approved event. In addition, USA Water Polo will be working with member clubs where possible to help stage clinics and competition around the country December 27-30 -- a time-slot previously reserved for the postponed Junior Olympic tournament -- to create a satellite festival of competition.
Health standards and conditions for youth sports continue to vary across the nation with some states allowing a return to full water polo competition while others are limiting activity. In advance of satellite play, we are conducting a national survey of member clubs to inform its competition calendar moving forward. USA Water Polo is also consulting with the USOPC, NCAA, and other National Governing Bodies to ensure that its decisions are informed by best practices.
As we approach 2021, USA Water Polo is optimistic and preparing for activity at the local, regional and national levels. We know our members and clubs are eager to return to scrimmages, leagues, and tournaments and we will be ready the moment health directives permit. The water polo community has shown its resilience throughout the pandemic. Because of the unity of USA Water Polo member athletes, coaches, referees, families, administrators and donors, we are confident that our sport's future remains bright. As a commitment to our membership, USA Water Polo is exploring incentives during 2021 renewal in November and December to help everyone get up and running quickly. We are ONE TEAM.
USA Water Polo members can access more information on event sanctioning by
clicking here. For more information or questions please contact the Events Department at events@usawaterpolo.org. As a reminder, in order for USA Water Polo's insurance to be available, all participants in your activities must be current USA Water Polo members, the activities must be supervised by a current USA Water Polo coach member, and a participation log should be maintained. USA Water Polo's insurance does not cover activities conducted at unapproved locations, such as backyard swimming pools, lakes or the ocean.
