Eight junior water polo players from Faversham Swimming Club represented the London Region at the annual Talent Games at the Manchester Aquatics Centre. 

Barnaby, Natalie, Paloma, Deven, Izzy, Flora, Emmelia and Scarlett were all selected to play in the U14 and U16 boys’ and girls’ competitions across the weekend of June 20 and 21. 

Their selection is a significant achievement, with only five Talent Centres from across the country taking part, each selecting a squad of just 15 players. 

London’s opening game ended in an 11-8 defeat to the North West. 

They bounced back with a convincing 32-2 win over the Midlands. Faversham’s Paloma represented the Midlands, while her clubmates helped London to victory. Deven scored four goals, Flora added three and Izzy was also on the scoresheet. 

London finished the weekend with a 15-6 victory over the North East. Deven scored again and also recorded more than 15 assists across the tournament, while Polly provided two assists and Izzy added another. 

The Talent Games are part of the national Talent Centre programme, which brings together some of the country’s most promising young water polo players. Selected athletes train at regional Talent Centres before representing their region at national competitions, helping prepare them for potential England pathway opportunities. 

Club chair James Perkins said: “This is a tremendous representation considering there were only five Talent Centres competing, with each region selecting a squad of just 15 players. To have eight Faversham players involved shows our juniors really are among the best in the country. It is a reflection of the strength of the club’s junior programme. 

“A great time was had by everyone, including the parents who made the long journey to Manchester and spent the weekend in a very warm swimming pool environment! 

“If any of our junior players would like to know more about the Talent Centre pathway, speak to your coaches.” 

The club congratulates all eight players on their selection and performances. The Talent Games bring together some of the best young water polo players in the country, and Faversham’s representation highlights the continued success of the club’s junior programme.