2026 Intro to Water Polo

NEW this year, we will be partnering with Princeton Tiger Aquatics to offer an introduction to Water Polo program at Ben Franklin Swim Club. Discover the exciting sport of water polo—a fast-paced Olympic sport that combines swimming, teamwork, strategy, and athleticism. Participants will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, defense, and game play through fun drills, skill development, and small-sided games in a positive and supportive environment.

The program is designed for beginner and developing swimmers ages 7–14 who are looking to build confidence in the water while learning a new team sport. Participants will be introduced to the basic techniques, rules, and fundamentals of water polo in a fun and recreational environment emphasizing teamwork, confidence, and water safety.

Prerequisite: Participants must be able to swim independently and tread water continuously for at least 90 seconds.

Open to youth ages 7 – 17; minimum 10 participants; maximum 24 participants.

All equipment will be provided by Princeton Tiger Aquatics.

Program instructors: Derek Ellingson and Huw Helman, both current coaches of the Princeton University Water Polo team.

Program Details: Wednesdays & Fridays August 5th- August 28th from 10:00am – 11:30am.

Outcomes to Be Achieved by Participants:

  1. Learn the fundamental skills and basic rules of water polo.
  2. Improve swimming confidence and endurance.
  3. Develop teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship.
  4. Increase coordination, agility, and overall aquatic fitness.
  5. Learn about opportunities for continued participation through Princeton Tiger Aquatics.

FEE: $125

To register, please complete the form below. Should you wish to register more than one participant, please complete a separate form for each participant. You do not need to be a member to register. If you are not signed into your account, you must do so in order to register. If you are not a member of the pool, please contact Christine, our Secretary at [email protected] for assistance with registration.

If you are not signed into your account, you must do so in order to register. If you are not a member of the pool, please contact our Swim and Dive Coordinator at [email protected].