Bronwen Knox talks women in water polo for International Women's Day

Olympic water polo player and Aussie Stinger Bronwen Knox is inspiring the next generation of young water polo players. Water Polo Queensland talked to her in honour of International Women's Day (8/03/19). 

What does being a woman in sport means to you and how have you benefited from it?

Being a woman in sport has come to mean more to me as the years progress. I can appreciate all those who have come before and opened doors, smashed the glass ceiling and fought for a seat at the table. Sports provides women an avenue to grow, explore and push boundaries of what they have been told they are capable of. Sport helps you build skills that will continue to play a role in all walks of life.

How you think Water Polo empowers women?

Water polo empowers women in multiple ways. It’s a sport that has strength and power, but also beauty and grace. It teaches us to speak up and also listen. It requires you to be creative but also to stick to the team game plan. It’s a balancing act and an understanding of what each situation needs. It empowers us to find our voice and to work together, striving for a united goal.  

As a coach how do you see your role in fostering the next generation of players? What values do you try to instil?

I enjoy coaching juniors. One of the biggest elements I try to influence is giving the girls confidence to make mistakes and learn from them. To stop saying ‘sorry’ for not mastering the skill I’ve just asked of them. To know that they are powerful, and they can do anything they set their minds to.