The Women’s A competition is the highest local level of women’s water polo in Newcastle and plays a critical role in athlete development and the pathway to higher levels of the sport.

This season, multiple issues, including game forfeits and inconsistent rulings, have directly impacted the integrity of the competition and disadvantaged teams and players. These events have highlighted the need for fair and inclusive finals structures that prioritise the athletes and the future of the game.

We, the undersigned, request that NWPI implement a four-team finals series for the Women’s A competition.

A four-team finals format would:

1. Allow all teams an opportunity to compete in meaningful finals matches
2. Ensure that results reflect players’ efforts across the season
3. Protect the integrity of the competition and the pathway for athlete development
4. Benefit the growth of Women’s water polo in our region
5. Recent forfeits have shown that the current finals structure is not serving the players or the competition. A four-team finals series will help restore fairness and give every athlete the chance to play at the highest level possible locally.

We call on NWPI to act promptly to implement this change for next weeks upcoming finals, ensuring the competition honours the dedication, skill, and commitment of all players involved.