New powerhouse of Australian water polo, the Mermaids, claim historic third national title

The new powerhouse of Australian water polo, Yeronga-based Mermaids, did it again at Chandler this afternoon after the under 12s claimed a historic third national title at the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships at Chandler.

The new powerhouse of Australian water polo, Yeronga-based Mermaids, did it again at Chandler this afternoon after the under 12s claimed a historic third national title for the club at the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships at Chandler.

The under 12s joined Mermaids under 14 and under 18 teams as national champions as dreams continued to come true for the Mermaids’ founder Nicola Johnson, her assistant coaches and the players.

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And the club’s trophy cabinet could become even more packed tomorrow if the Mermaids under 16s win its grand final.

Mermaids under 12s and supporters celebrate the winning moment.

“There is no other club that has achieved that (three national gold medals and at worst a silver medal). Sydney Uni would be the closest,’’ Johnson said.

“It is surreal.’’

Mermaids win under 14 and under 18 national titles. Read here

Yesterday Mermaids’ under 12s walked a tightrope against defiant opponents Sydney Northern Breakers before winning a penalty shoot out after the scores were locked at 1-all.

Mermaids Pia Hatzipetrou scored the winning goal.

Pia Hatzipetrou scored the decisive goal in the penalty shoot out to put her side ahead after Mermaids goal keeper Dasha Osadchuk deflected opposition shots.

In Pictures: Australian Youth Water Polo Championships

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You got the impression the Northern Breakers could have launched a bowling ball at Osadchuk and she would not have budged an inch, so impressively did she rise to the occasion.

Goal keeper Dasha Osadchuk from the Mermaids under 12s

“You think to yourself “you’ve got this, you can do this’. If the opposition get it, that is okay because you can stop the next shot. You have a second chance,’’ Osadchuk said.

Calm before the storm as Mermaids players wait to take part in the penalty shoot out.

Coach Giuliano Astone praised the composure of his side.

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“The girls, they are so focused, they knew exactly what to do. The goalie was amazing,’’ he said.

Mermaids playersat the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships at Brisbane Aquatic Centre. Photo Lachie Millard

Asked what the secret of the club, Astone said: “It is not about winning, it just happens to come because they are a good bunch of girls.

“There is passion in the club. Everyone does not want to be the best, everyone just wants to play good water polo.’’