about the Tournament

Over the past three years, the Woodridge Stayers Water Polo Tournament has become one of South Africa’s premier schools’ water polo events, consistently raising the bar for competition, organisation, and spectator experience. The tournament has grown into a national showcase, with year-after-year increases in team participation, spectator engagement, and interest.

The 2026 edition will welcome teams from across the country, with full representation from both boys’ and girls’ squads from 8-11 October. This growth makes the Woodridge Stayers Tournament one of the largest and most inclusive school water polo events in South Africa and underlines its importance on the school sport calendar.

Now firmly established as a flagship water polo tournament, the event offers more than just high-level competition. It creates a vibrant, multi-day experience for athletes, families, and schools, combining intense pool action with community spirit, professional organisation, and significant media exposure.

At the heart of the Woodridge Stayers Tournament are the players. Young athletes who train hard, dream big, and give their all in every match. Over four days of competition, they test their skills against the best school teams in the country, pushing their limits in fast-paced, high-stakes games that demand fitness, focus, and teamwork.

This Stayers experience goes beyond the scoreboard. It’s where friendships are forged during warm-up sessions, where rivals become teammates on national squads, and where memories are made that last long after the final whistle has blown. For many, this tournament is a highlight of the season and a chance to represent their school on a national stage and to be part of something bigger than themselves.

The festival’s continued success is made possible through the generous support of our valued sponsors. Their commitment to youth sport and education helps elevate every aspect of the 2026 tournament, from facilities and logistics to athlete experience and broadcast reach.

As the Woodridge Stayers Water Polo Tournament continues to grow, it remains dedicated to showcasing the best school-level water polo in South Africa while providing a platform where players thrive, parents connect, and the spirit of the sport shines brightest.