Stuartholme’s Bright Future in Water Polo
Over the weekend, Stuartholme School hosted the Ord Minnett Australian Stingers in an exhilarating two-game match against Canada. This exciting event showcased Stuartholme’s world-class pool facilities on the global stage, providing students and the community with a unique opportunity to witness world-class Water Polo excellence right on our own grounds.
The 2024 Water Polo season has officially commenced with the Junior and Senior Water Polo Camp setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead. Stuartholme’s Water Polo program is poised for a bright future, highlighted by the addition of two distinguished figures in the sport: Jodie Stuhmcke and Hannah McWilliam. These appointments bring renewed spirit and valuable mentorship to the team, ensuring the continuation of Stuartholme’s tradition of excellence.
As Alumna, Rachel Byron (Class of 1998), the school’s Water Polo coordinator, steps back to embrace motherhood, she has played a pivotal role in orchestrating key appointments to maintain the high coaching standards for which Stuartholme Water Polo is renowned. Central to this transformation is the appointment of Jodie Stuhmcke, a 2004 Olympian and the current Queensland coach, who joins the team as the new player mentor and coach. Based at the Queensland Academy of Sport, Jodie brings a wealth of experience and expertise to elevate the Stuartholme Water Polo program.
Jodie shared her excitement, stating, “It’s been really exciting to be on the pool deck with Stuartholme’s Water Polo team. I am genuinely impressed by the talent and dedication of the girls and the coaching staff I’ve had the privilege to train with so far. The warm welcome I’ve received from the parents and the Stuartholme team has been fantastic. Thank you for making me feel at home here so quickly.”
A testament to the school’s dedication to nurturing its own talent, Stuartholme Alumna, Hannah McWilliam (Class of 2015), an international Water Polo athlete, co-chairs the Water Polo team this season alongside Rachel’s continued support. Having made the journey from student-athlete to international athlete and now a coach at Stuartholme, Hannah perfectly embodies the school’s ethos of developing and supporting their own.
Stuartholme School also acknowledges the passion and talent of many of its students aspiring to excel in Water Polo. The newly established Parent Support Group has been working tirelessly to provide additional support. We extend our thanks for their continued dedication, not only for their daughters but also for the success of Stuartholme School Water Polo.
