SUKMA 2026: Selangor Clinch Silver in Women’s Water Polo, Coach Praises Players’ Spirit

SHAH ALAM: Selangor women’s water polo coach Sarah Ann Thorp remains proud of her charges’ performance despite having to accept a 10-12 defeat to Sarawak in the final of the 22nd Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 at the Selangor Aquatic Centre, today.

According to Sarah Ann, the Selangor athletes had given their all throughout the final match and fought as best they could in every moment of the game.

She said the team also displayed a never-say-die spirit as the players continued to put up resistance even when trailing.

“Whatever the result, all the players fought their best and gave everything, and they tried to do their best for every moment of the game and never gave up,” she said when met by Media Selangor.

Commenting on aspects of the game that could still be improved, Sarah Ann said the team needs to continue to improve their fitness, teamwork and strength to ensure they can emerge as the best team in the future.

“Our team can still continue to improve fitness, teamwork and strength.

“We want to continue to improve these aspects so that we can emerge as the best team in the future,” she said again.

More encouragingly, Sarah Ann said this SUKMA competition was the first experience for all her players, besides being the first appearance of women’s water polo in several years of the Games.

“This is actually the first SUKMA for all the players, because women’s water polo has not been contested in such a tournament for several years.

“I am very proud of them for being able to play at this level and give such a good performance,” she said.

Selangor ended the women’s water polo competition as runners-up and brought home the silver medal after losing 10-12 to Sarawak, who were crowned gold medallists.

Media Selangor