The summer clinic, which ran in June and July, attracted enthusiastic participation from area families and gave many players their very first introduction to water polo. The clinic concluded with a special Water Polo Meet & Greet, where families had the chance to hear from Peter Varellas, a Montclair dad and Olympic silver medalist in water polo. Varellas spoke to players and families about his own journey in the sport, the teamwork and resilience it develops, and the opportunities water polo can open for young athletes.

Founded by husband and wife duo Chris and Khara Kelsch, the program is now expanding into a competitive season with the Montclair Makos. The inaugural season will run from September 15 through December 17, with practices on Mondays (6:45–7:45 p.m.), Wednesdays (6:30–7:30 p.m.), and Sundays (9:00–10:00 a.m.). The team will compete locally against programs including Princeton, the Jersey Aquatic Center, and possibly Asphalt Green in New York City.

“We were thrilled to see such strong interest during the summer,” said Coach Chris. “Water polo is an incredible sport that builds endurance, strategy, and teamwork—and it’s exciting to bring this opportunity to Montclair kids.”

The program welcomes beginners, and most players will be brand new to water polo aside from those who joined the clinic. To enroll, participants should be able to demonstrate strong swimming proficiency, including the ability to swim 10 x 25-yard laps continuously (250 yards total) and tread water for three minutes. We will be offering a Trial Practice on September 8 at 6:45pm in order to give new players an opportunity to try out the sport before enrolling.

For more information or to register, please contact the YMCA of Montclair or visit https://montclair.recliquecore.com/programs/109/montclair-makos-ymca-water-polo-team/?locations=17.

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