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  • Water Polo in Alabama: A Grassroots Movement That Inspires Us All

    June 19, 2025 2 min read

    At KAP7, we believe water polo should be accessible to every kid, no matter where they live or how far they are from the nearest big club or tournament. Our mission has always been to grow the game, support the community, and give back to the sport that gave us so much.

    That’s why we want to share the story of Sheri, a former Indiana University player and passionate mom who’s quietly building something extraordinary in Montgomery, Alabama—a place where, until recently, water polo was nearly nonexistent.



    Sheri grew up in Ft. Lauderdale playing under legendary coaches like Michael Goldenberg and Felix Mercado. After years away from the sport and a move to Montgomery with her family, it was her daughter who unknowingly reignited Sheri’s passion. One fun practice with a teammate who had played water polo sparked the question:

    "Mom, can I play water polo too?"

    With no local programs available and the nearest teams hours away, Sheri did what most wouldn’t: she started her own program. She connected with her local YMCA, carved out pool time, and began teaching the basics to a small group of kids—most of whom had never touched a water polo ball.

    What started in spring 2023 with just a handful of athletes has now grown to over 20 players, including full girls and coed teams, and even a younger group for kids ages 10–14. These players now compete in exhibition games in Atlanta and Tennessee, often driving long hours and sacrificing weekends just to get in the water and play the game they love.

    And it’s not just about numbers. It’s about heart. These kids, and their parents are all in. Sheri’s own son would finish varsity football games on Friday nights, hop in a car with some teammates and ride through the night to make Saturday morning matches. It’s dedication like this that reminds us why we do what we do.

    This year, several of her players are moving with military families—some as far as Germany, Belgium, and Hawaii—where they plan to keep playing the sport. It’s a powerful legacy: teaching kids the game and sending them out into the world with a love for water polo that will ripple far beyond Alabama.


    KAP7 Is Proud to Support Coaches Like Sheri

    This is what we mean when we say “we give back to the game.” When you buy from KAP7, you're not just getting high-quality gear—you’re helping us reinvest directly into the water polo community. Whether it’s through donations, gear support, athlete sponsorships, or helping new programs like Sheri’s get off the ground, a portion of every sale goes back into growing the game.

    We’re not just the official ball of World Aquatics, The Olympics, or the NCAA—we’re also committed to the grassroots.

    Because water polo doesn’t just live in California, Florida, or New York. It’s growing in places like Montgomery, Alabama—thanks to people like Sheri. And that’s where the future of the sport truly lies.

    Have a story like Sheri’s?
    We want to hear it. Send us an email or tag us on social—we’re here to help support you however we can.


    Thank you for supporting KAP7. Thank you for supporting the sport.
    The KAP7 Team
    Grow the Game at KAP7.com




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