Makos Coach Chris Kelsch and the combined NJ Select 12U team at the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics, Orange County, CA, July 19, 2026

 
The Montclair Makos were proudly represented at this year’s USA Water Polo Junior Olympics (a.k.a. US Nationals), where the NJ Select 12U team earned an impressive 7th-place finish in the nation’s premier youth water polo tournament.

 

 

Theo Kelsch, representing the YMCA Montclair Makos, playing under the Princeton Tigers Aquatic Club

Competing under the Princeton Tigers Aquatic Club (PTAC), the NJ Select team brought together athletes from the Princeton Tigers, Montclair Makos, Orange Edge, and other New Jersey area clubs. This collaborative model creates opportunities for athletes from across the region to compete at the highest level of youth water polo.

 
Coached by Huw Helman and the Montclair Makos Head Coach, Chris Kelsch, the team demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the tournament while competing against the nation’s top programs.


This top-10 finish highlights the strength of collaboration among regional water polo programs and what can be achieved when clubs come together to support young athletes. The partnership between the Montclair Makos and PTAC continues to expand the competitive pathway for players across New Jersey, allowing athletes to experience high-level competition while representing the region on a national stage.

 

We congratulate all of the athletes, coaches, and families on an outstanding achievement and look forward to building on this success in the seasons ahead.

 
Want to join in on the fun? The Montclair Makos Fall 2026 season kicks off on August 31! Our competitive co-ed program is open to athletes ages 10–14 who are ready to learn, compete, and grow as water polo players.
Fall practice schedule:
  • Mondays: 6:45–7:45 p.m.
  • Wednesdays: 6:30–7:30 p.m.
  • Sundays: 9:00–10:00 a.m.
 
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ABOUT THE YMCA OF MONTCLAIR
Established in 1891, the YMCA of Montclair welcomes all. We are a nonprofit that works to empower young people, improve health and well-being, and inspire action in and across our community. The Y offers need-based financial assistance for its programs to ensure access for all. We proudly serve Bloomfield, Bloomingdale, Clifton, Cedar Grove, Glen Ridge, Haskell, Montclair, Verona, Wanaque, and West Milford. For more information, please visit montclairymca.org.