Mosman teen Felix Pal is set to make waves on the international stage, juggling HSC studies with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent Australia at the World Water Polo Championships in July.
Most Year 12 students already have their hands full with impending HSC exams, but one Mosman teen has the added pressure of wearing the Green and Gold this July. The 17-year-old Scots College student will represent the nation in the Under 18 Australian men’s water polo team at this year’s world championships in Argentina.
Despite not initially being heavily involved in the national selection process, Felix recently received the surprising news that he had been chosen to represent Australia in the Under 18 men’s water polo team at the upcoming World Championships. This unexpected opportunity has left the Mosman teen excited and eager to participate in the prestigious event.
Water Polo runs deep in the Pal family. Felix’s late grandfather played in Hungary. Additionally, Felix’s father had a remarkable water polo career, winning three national championships while playing for the University of California, Berkeley in the United States. Felix has always aspired to match his father’s success and continue the water polo tradition deeply rooted in their family history.
The third generation is about to make waves on the international stage. Felix attributes his talent and passion for the sport to his older brother George, who he considers a skilled water polo player.
Funding Hurdles
But before the young gun can make the trip, he must first raise money. Unfortunately, Australia doesn’t fund their junior teams, and with an estimated cost of $16,000 for each player, Felix’s dad, Damon, is calling on the community for help.
While Damon acknowledges the honour of having his son represent Australia on the international stage, he laments the lack of funding from national programs to support the junior water polo team. Recognising the significant financial burden this opportunity presents, Damon is actively seeking assistance from various sources, expressing gratitude for any contributions that can help alleviate the substantial costs associated with Felix’s participation in the World Championships.
So far, almost $3,500 has been raised – but there’s still a long way to go.
Olympic Dreams
While Felix harbours ambitions of potentially reaching the Olympic level in water polo, he remains grounded and pragmatic about his chances, expressing reserved confidence tempered by realistic expectations.
Despite not wanting to get ahead of himself, he remains hopeful and committed to pursuing his athletic dreams as far as his talents can take him. However, he must first overcome his academics.
After competing in the prestigious World Championships, Felix Pal must immediately shift his focus to preparing for the critical HSC Trial Exams. Juggling the demands of his academic commitments alongside his athletic pursuits will undoubtedly be a formidable task, but he believes the opportunity to represent Australia on the international stage makes the effort worthwhile.
Published 29-May-2024
