“I joined Surge Rookies for something
new and physical, where lack of
experience wouldn't hold me back - and I
got all that. What I didn't expect was the
incredible sense of community”
THOMAS FYFIELD
ROOKIES 2017 MVP
LEARN TO PLAY
It has been voted the most difficult sport in the world, but everyone who plays had to start somewhere.
Melbourne Surge fosters a supportive learning environment to help new members transition into
the club, learn the skills at their own pace and develop into a fully-fledged player.
Whether it is swimming ability, ball skills, endurance, or the dreaded eggbeater kick, there will always be a Melbourne Surge member
to cheer you on. Your skills and confidence can help you decide what level you wish to train at, and whether you’d like to play with us competitively.
ROOKIES PROGRAM
Melbourne Surge runs an annual Rookies Program at the start of the calendar year. The program is designed to get a group of players who are new to the sport together, to learn together, over a period of 8 weeks.
Starting with the basics, each week skills are developed and built, culminating in a public ‘Rookies vs Rookies’ match open to family and friends, and a Graduation Party.
Rookies is a great way to be introduced to the sport and other newbies slowly and in a supported way.
I’ve missed the start of the Rookies Program – what now? Don’t worry; you’re not the only one! We generally have a number of new faces come throughout the year.
While it may be a little more difficult compared to completing the program itself, if is by no means impossible and you won’t be the first (or only) one! We’ll ensure you’re always buddied with someone, supported and comfortable.
ROOKIES PROGRAM IS HELD ON FRIDAY NIGHTS AT 7.00-8.30PM
STARTING 15TH MARCH 2024
COME TRY IT OUT. FIRST SESSION IS FREE!
FAQ's
What skills do I need before I start?
Unsurprisingly water polo requires a lot of swimming. For your safety and enjoyment we recommend you be able to swim 200m freestyle without stopping before joining to learn water polo. We recommend learn to swim classes until you can swim 200m non-stop comfortably before joining.
What do I need to bring?
Towel, swimmers, mouth guard, water bottle, goggles, soap to rise off before and after.
What do I need to wear?
You can wear whatever swimmers you are comfortable in while we train though most men will be in speedos and most women will be wearing a one piece.
What should I expect from the course?
Sessions usually start with a swim warm up and then move onto water polo drills. Over the 10 weeks we'll start with the basics like eggbeater kick, passing and shooting before then progress to more complicated game tactics and skills to prepare you for the Rookies Graduation Match.
WHAT OUR ROOKIES SAY
"Rookies was a really good experience for anyone that’s new to Water Polo or just unsure about their ability to play. I found the Surge Members to be very welcoming and felt included. Rookies helped me build the basic skills and confidence I needed to go into my first season of competition! It has been a fantastic way to make new friends, challenge myself to learn a new sport and improve my fitness."
IAN HE/HIM ROOKIE 2022
"I joined the rookies program in 2022, the first year it was run after the pandemic. I was hoping to meet other queer people in a setting that wasn’t a bar or club. The experience continues to be overwhelmingly positive. The club is incredibly welcoming regardless of ability, gender, age, or sexuality. Playing waterpolo has almost been secondary to the friendships, social events, and inclusivity I’ve experienced. I can’t recommend it enough."
RYAN HE/HIM ROOKIE 2022
"Joining Surge Rookies in 2022 was the best decision I made all year ! It’s a fun, friendly and supportive environment to learn skills and move your body.
Learning together with other new players from the LGBTQIA+ community was a fantastic experience."
CHARLOTTE NON CONFORMING ROOKIE 2022