Where inclusion, water polo, and friendship meet

We're the Sydney Stingers, a proudly inclusive water polo club based in Sydney. For almost 25 years, we've been creating space for LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies to belong in sport, whether you're brand new to the game or returning after time away.

Water polo brings us together, but community is what keeps people here. We train, compete, volunteer, and show up for one another in and out of the pool.

Everyone is welcome. You don't need prior experience, a certain level of fitness, or to fit a particular mould. If you're looking for a club that values connection as much as competition, you'll find a place with us.

Women and Gender-Diverse Players

Women and gender-diverse players are central to our club. We field women's teams across a range of experience levels, and many members also play in INTRA, our inclusive mixed-gender competition. Women, trans, and non-binary members are active across all parts of the Stingers as players, volunteers, and leaders.

INTRA: Our Internal Competition

INTRA is our all-gender social competition for beginners and anyone looking for a lower-pressure way to play. Games are played on Sunday afternoons at Gunyama Park with mixed teams and short seasons.

Many members join INTRA after bootcamp as their first step into regular play. Others make it their main connection to the club, while some play INTRA alongside Metro competition. It's open to all skill levels and provides a welcoming entry point into water polo and the Stingers community.

What we do

We run multiple teams across both the Water Polo NSW Metropolitan League and our internal INTRA competition. Our competitive teams play in women's and men's divisions, while INTRA offers a beginner-friendly, mixed-gender alternative.

Every week, you'll find us training at:

• Saturdays — Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre

• Sundays — Gunyama Park Aquatic Centre

• Thursdays — Swim Squad at Cook + Phillip or Prince Alfred Park Pool

Our calendar is full of community events, too—like Fair Day, trivia nights, and our Mardi Gras parade entry.

 find your team

The Sydney Stingers offer teams and pathways across all experience levels. Whether you're brand new to water polo, returning after time away, or looking for regular competition, there's a place for you here.

Team placements are made with care, considering your experience, goals, and availability. We support movement between teams as your skills and confidence develop.

New to water polo

If you've never played water polo before, you're not alone. Many members start with little or no experience.

New players usually begin with a bootcamp—a beginner-focused introduction to the sport and the club. After bootcamp, some people move into INTRA, our mixed-gender competition focused on learning and confidence, while others continue into Metro teams or simply enjoy the bootcamp experience.

Returning to the sport

If you've played before and are thinking about getting back into it, we offer pathways across both INTRA and Metropolitan League teams. Some members ease back through INTRA, while others return directly to competition.

We'll help you find a level that matches your experience, availability, and goals for the season.

Experienced and competitive

If you're looking for regular training, structured seasons, and competitive matches, our Metropolitan League teams may be the right fit. These teams compete in the Water Polo NSW competition and suit players who want to train consistently, develop their skills, and commit to match play across the season.

We field teams across multiple grades and support players to find a level that is both challenging and sustainable. Women's teams compete in Division 1 and 2, while men's teams compete in Division 2. If you're unsure where you fit, we're happy to talk it through.

Team structure

The Stingers field multiple teams each season across different competition levels:

• Women's Metro League: Teams across Division 1 and 2

• Men's Metro League: Teams in Division 2

• INTRA Competition: Mixed-gender social competition for all skill levels

Team numbers and divisions may vary by season based on interest and player availability.

Beyond weekly competition

Many members also participate in tournaments and events throughout the year. These include:

• Rainbow Cup — An annual tournament bringing together LGBTQIA+ water polo clubs from across Australia, hosted by a different city each year

• Beach Water Polo 4s — Our annual beach tournament, open to all skill levels

• International competitions — Teams regularly compete at events like the Gay Games and IGLA (International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics) championships

Participation in these events is optional and organized separately from regular season play.

Where to next

Ready to get started? Register your interest and we'll help you find the right pathway.