18th January 2026
Newport Water Polo success at the Swim Wales Awards.
On Saturday 17th January, the Welsh Aquatic community gathered in Cardiff for the Annual Swimming Wales Awards. Newport Water Polo were well represented, with 3 shortlisters: Manon Lythgoe in the Young Aquatic Athlete category, Heidi Lythgoe in the Aquatic Volunteer category and Laura Monico in the Aquatic Coach category.
Whilst winning in 1 category would have been a proud achievement, the women won in all 3 categories, highlighting the strength of Junior Women’s Water Polo in Newport and in Wales.
As Young Aquatic Athlete, Manon has enjoyed a fantastic year captaining the Wales Junior Women’s Water Polo Team and being selected for the GB under 18’s squad, while also excelling in swimming, winning medals at the Swim Wales National Championships and Summer Meet.
Heidi was awarded Aquatic Volunteer as she plays a vital role in supporting women and girls in water polo, acting as team manager for the Junior Women’s Development Squad and supporting athletes at national and international competitions and training camps.
Laura was awarded Aquatic Coach as over the past two and a half years, Laura has transformed junior women’s water polo in Wales, demonstrating exceptional commitment and playing a key role in the sport’s growth and development.
Well done to all!
