The South African Canoe Polo Championships took centre stage, from 27 February to 1 March, in Century City, Cape Town bringing together top paddlers from across the country for a weekend of fast-paced, high-intensity action.
Canoe polo is a dynamic water sport that combines elements of kayaking and water polo, where teams battle it out in short, explosive matches, passing and shooting a ball while navigating tight spaces and defending their goals. It demands not just strength and endurance, but sharp decision-making, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. South Africa’s best canoe polo players came together and among the standout participants were North-West University (NWU) students Rowan Attwell, Danica Barnard, Dominique Straub, and Wynand Kershoff, who brought their grit, energy, and skills to the fore.
Rowan Attwell, a second-year BEng Mechanical Engineering student, competed in the first division with the Namibia/Gauteng Men’s Team. This division is the toughest, featuring U21 and Open Men’s teams, and Rowan’s squad held their own, finishing a strong fourth. “Every year it gets harder as people train more, learn new skills, and raise their game,” Rowan said. “It pushes you to compete at your best and gives you that healthy fire to do even better next year.” Rowan has been hooked on canoe polo for nearly five years and credits the sport with building mental toughness and adaptability, especially when playing against more experienced teams.
Meanwhile, in the second division, NWU students Danica Barnard, Dominique Straub, and Wynand Kershoff represented the Gauteng Mixed Team and also claimed fourth place. For Danica, a final-year BSc in Biological Sciences, it was her second SA Champs and an experience she describes as “incredible.” “The South African canoe polo community is like one big family,” she says. “Every time we get together, it is fun, competitive, and full of energy. Facing stronger teams just makes you want to train harder and show what NWU paddlers are made of.”
Dominique Straub, who is completing her Master’s in Geography and Environmental Management, added: “Teamwork is everything in canoe polo. Every player has a role, and if one person slips, it affects the whole team. But the beauty is that there is always a chance to bounce back. One bad pass does not define you. It is how you recover.” She also mentioned how events like this are great for promoting the sport across South Africa and inspiring new players, particularly at universities like NWU.
Wynand Kershoff, who is still in Grade 11 at Hoër Volkskool Potchefstroom, held his own against more experienced competitors, soaking up lessons and experience to fuel his future in the sport.
This year’s championships also marked a milestone: for the first time in six years, the Western Cape beat Gauteng. “They honestly deserved first place. They are incredible players,” Danica said, acknowledging the level of competition and the growth of canoe polo in the Western Cape.
For the NWU paddlers, it was not only about the results but rather about growing their skills, backing their game plans, and building connections that go beyond the water. “The prep we did back in Potchefstroom really showed on the water,” Danica said. “And events like this give more visibility to the sport, which is huge for South Africa. If canoe polo becomes a varsity sport across the country, it is going to be epic.”
Rowan, Danica, Dominique, and Wynand all hope to continue developing their skills and representing NWU at provincial, national, and even international levels. Their dedication, passion, and teamwork exemplify the next generation of South African canoe polo athletes committed to both the sport and the community it fosters.
The SA champs hope to continue developing their skills and representing the NWU
