Aussie Stingers Kick Off LA2028 Cycle in Greece: January 14, 2025

The Aussie Stingers have touched down in Alexandroupolis, Greece, gearing up for their first competition in the new Olympic cycle.

With 1,276 days until the next Olympic flame is ignited, the Stingers are honing their skills in the historic land of the modern Olympics, preparing for the upcoming World Cup.

Seven Stingers make their triumphant return to international competition post-Paris Olympics, joined by fresh talent as five newcomers prepare for their senior national team debut.

Olympic silver medalist Bronte Halligan, from the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS, pictured above), expressed her enthusiasm about rejoining the Australian national team.

“It’s thrilling to be back with the Stingers,” Halligan shared. “We've got a mix of veterans and fresh faces since Paris, and the energy is fantastic. We’re aiming to build on our Paris momentum, but with this new group, we’re taking it step by step. I’m eager to see what we can achieve.”

Since the Paris Olympics, two-time Olympian Abby Andrews has been residing in Greece, competing with the prestigious club Olympiacos in the European league. She conveyed her excitement about embarking on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

“I love living here and training with the Stingers has been a joy over the past week,” said Andrews. “Working with the Greeks has been exceptional preparation for us. Starting a new cycle and assessing our starting point at the World Cup is exhilarating. I can't wait to dive into competition.”

The Stingers will face their first challenge on Tuesday, January 14 (local time) against the Paris Olympic bronze medalists, the Netherlands. Goalkeeper Gen Longman, a NSWIS scholarship recipient (pictured above), is eager for the upcoming contest.

“We can anticipate a high-caliber game from the Netherlands,” Longman noted. “Like us, they have new players, but they consistently bring their A-game. They’re known for their sharp shooters and fast, physical style. Playing against them elevates our game, and we reciprocate. It promises to be an action-packed match.”

Catch the 2025 World Aquatics World Cup live on Recast. CLICK HERE for more details.

https://www.worldaquatics.com/where-to-watch/live&ondemand

AUSSIE STINGERS DRAW

Wednesday, January 15 | 6am AEDT | Australia vs. Netherlands
Thursday, January 16 | 6am AEDT | Australia vs. Israel
Friday, January 17 | 6am AEDT | Australia vs. Italy

Story courtesy of Water Polo Australia.