Last year our water polo teams made Trinity history by winning all three boys’ national titles in the same year, bringing home the U13, U15 and U18 ESSA National Championship titles. With this in mind, we thought it was about time we looked back and celebrated the rich water polo legacy at Trinity.
In this issue, we delve into the stories of more than ten alumni, ranging from Richard Crawley (Class of 1970) to our own Olympic legend, Sean King (Class of 2007), to one of our more recent leavers, Kathy Rogers (Class of 2017). Their interviews highlight the camaraderie, teamwork, and lifelong bonds forged through this gruelling, yet rewarding, sport.
From balancing academics and athletics to overcoming setbacks
with the support of teammates, these experiences encapsulate the values we aim to instil in our student athletes. As we cheer on the Olympic water polo teams, let’s reminisce about our own glory days in the pool and the invaluable lessons learnt along the way.
Much of the school’s success would not have been possible without one of the most inspirational coaches, Ian Marsh. Turn to page 34 to read about water polo at Trinity from his perspective, and to gain insights into his coaching philosophy and the impact he has had on generations of student athletes.
Take a trip down memory lane and discover how the Jupp brothers started the OMWS water polo team in the 1950s. Their pioneering efforts laid the foundation for
Trinity’s water polo legacy, and their story is a testament to the passion and dedication that have defined this sport at our school.
In addition to honouring our water polo legacy, we are also celebrating 60 years since the laying of the Foundation Stone on the Shirley Park site in June 1964. This milestone marks the start of our 60 years at Shirley Park celebrations, so stay tuned for all the exciting events we have planned over the next two years.
My Trinity
Students win medals for Great Britain in Biathle
Congratulations to JBug, Harry and L6 student, Alex who both represented Great Britain at the European Biathle Championships 2024, in Funchal, Madeira.
Alex said, “It was a good few days away and it was nice to see Harry out there competing too. We both performed very well and are looking forward to the same again next year!”
Cadets recognised in London top 10
Congratulations to two of our CCF (Royal Navy) cadets, WO2C Abi Watkins (Upper Sixth) and LHC Elliot Secord (Fifth Year), who have been awarded a Deputy Lieutenant’s (DL) Certificate. DL Certificates recognise outstanding cadets across the uniformed youth organisations in each London borough and raise awareness of their contribution within the community. Only 10 CCF cadets in London have been awarded a DL Certificate this year, so this is an incredible achievement. Their certificates will be presented by the Representative Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Croydon in due course. Well done!
Lower Sixth student Adeel Imtiazi is World Bench Press Champion
Congratulations to Adeel, who is the International Powerlifting Federation’s World Bench Press Champion in his category.
Adeel participated in the IPF World Bench Press Championships in Austin, Texas, on May 22, competing in the Sub-Junior U53kg category. He pressed an impressive 92.5kg and was crowned World Bench Press Champion!
Trinity RFC sign two Trinity teachers
New attack coach George Kimmins is currently a teacher at Trinity and has played National League rugby in Somerset, represented Exeter University 1st XV and won London 2 with London Cornish, whom he went on to captain. He will also be playing this season and can play anywhere across the back line. Paul Roberts, Director of Rugby at Trinity School has joined the club for the 2024-25 season. Paul brings a huge amount of talent and experience having played professionally at Bath, Plymouth, Doncaster and Esher.
Amiri Harewood, Class of 2020
Amiri, who is now in his final year at the RCM, was recently awarded the Kerr Memorial prize at the prestigious Royal Overseas League Piano competition for an outstanding pianist of promise. After this, he was selected for the final of the Young Concert Artist Trust competition, held at Wigmore Hall in May. Only seven artists were selected during rigorous auditions in London and Germany, and Amiri was the only British artist involved (and the youngest). He gave an outstanding performance, deeply musical, thoughtful, colourful, engaging and with grace and confidence.
We are pleased to announce that he won and will now be represented by YCAT and gain management and guidance to launch his career. This is a truly outstanding achievement, and we look forward to following his amazing career.
Josh Bellamy, Class of 2023 and Lucas Friday, Class of 2024
Congratulations to Josh and Lucas who were part of the victorious England team playing in the World Rugby U20 Championship final.
Joshua Bernard-Cooper, Class of 2017
Joshua was recently selected as an Analogue Astronaut for the Meili II Mission this August. He and the crew will spend two weeks in an isolated extreme environment to emulate challenges of space exploration. He is looking forward to working with everyone, and delivering some top-quality research!
Ada Okorogheye, Class of 2019
Congratulations to Ada who was awarded the Howard Hill Mossman Trophy by Amherst College. The trophy is awarded annually to the member of the senior class who has brought, during their four years at Amherst, the greatest honour in athletics to the alma mater — the word “honour” being interpreted as relating both to achievement and sportsmanship.”
Ada said: “The hard work continues as I look forward to my first full season in senior football and to helping the next generation of student-athletes with AddedEducation.”
Jessica Man, Class of 2020
Maddy Burt, Class of 2019
Congratulations to Maddy, who has been awarded a Gray’s Inn Scholarship to support her undertaking the Law Conversion Course and Bar Course. She will be taking some time off over the summer before starting the Bar Course in September.
Two years on from being Female Undergraduate of the Year Award finalist in 2022, Jess was back at the targetjobs UK Undergraduate of the Year Awards — not as a finalist — but as the Social Media Manager for the Group GTI team, who put all the magic together to make this event the success that it is! She said her “pinch-me” moment was getting the chance to interview the celebrity guest speaker, Sue Perkins, for some social content.
Nadia Eskandari, Class of 2016
Nadia, who plays in the group Vulva Voce, not only had the honour of playing at Glastonbury this year and collaborating with the Beatbox Collective and Good Habits, but they were introduced on stage by the one and only Idris Elba! In August, they are heading to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and have a writing residency in Scotland to write more original music.
Cemal Ezel OBE, Class of 2002
Congratulations to Cemal, Founder and CEO of Change Please, who has been awarded an OBE for his services to social enterprise and for fighting homelessness.
Cemal’s vision of tackling homelessness through the power of employment and selling greattasting coffee was born in 2015, and through his determination and dedication, Change Please has grown to make a significant impact to those experiencing homelessness across the UK and internationally. By always challenging the status quo to create a better future, Cemal has enabled Change Please to push boundaries and really make a positive difference in society.
Nadeem Masood, Class of 1993
As Paris 2024 approaches, Nadeem Masood reflects on his involvement in the London 2012 Olympics, a time he remembers vividly.
When London won the bid, Nadeem eagerly volunteered, joining 70,000 others who successfully made it through a rigorous selection process. His dedication also led him to audition for the Opening Ceremony, an unforgettable experience during which he stood in the Olympic Stadium as the five glowing rings converged.
To preserve the memories and the collaborative spirit of the event, Nadeem authored “Making Pandemonium”. This book captures the essence of the teamwork that brought Danny Boyle’s vision to life, ensuring that this piece of London’s cultural history is remembered. Though out of print, “Making Pandemonium” is still available directly from Nadeem. Interested readers can contact him via email at nadeem.masood@outlook.com or through Facebook Messenger.
Warwick Jones, Class of 1969
Warwick was recently elected to the General Committee of Surrey County Cricket Club. He served as Interim Treasurer during the 2022-23 term and has previously been a member of both the General Committee and the Audit and Risk Committee. A dedicated member since 1993, Warwick attended his first game at the Oval in 1958.
In addition to his cricket involvement, Warwick won the All England Theatre Festival Eastern Area Adjudicators Trophy for Best Actor for his performance in “Heaven’s Above”.
Paul Godfrey, Class of 1990
The US Space Force has named Air Marshal Paul Godfrey as Assistant Chief of Space Operations for Future Concepts and Partnerships. He will advise General Chance Saltzman, the Chief of US Space Operations on everything related to achieving space superiority and resilience through international partnerships.
David Picksley, Class of 1951
Another year, another marathon! Despite a fall at mile 11, David picked himself up, dusted himself off and carried on completing another London Marathon. A few weeks later he went to Oxford to participate in the Bannister Mile, which was held to commemorate 70 years since Roger Bannister ran the first sub 4-minute mile, which David had witnessed all those years ago.
on water polo
Richard Crawley, Class of 1970
I studied Biochemistry (BSc) at Dundee University, then Immunology at London University (MSc). I worked in the pharmaceutical industry for Beechams and The Wellcome Foundation in and around London. In 1994, I moved to the USA with Wellcome and lived in Raleigh, North Carolina for much of the rest of my days. I spent four years in South East Asia, Singapore and Thailand, but returned to Raleigh to retire. I now play golf frequently and travel to new destinations when I can.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I was a keen swimmer at school and graduated into water polo as the Old Boys started a team and helped develop the sport at school. It was more interesting than just ploughing up and down lanes swimming and the guys who all began playing were great to be around and travel with.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
I was really lucky that I fell in with good groups both at school and uni who helped show the need to work, but also to play and relax. The
right balance sort of happened as a result.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
Two really: the moment we knew that the Old Boys were being promoted to Division 1 of the National Water Polo League, and diving into the water for my first international cap. But there were so many other moments along the way, shared with lifelong friends.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I was quick in the water and big enough to hold my own against most. Over time, I think I read the game pretty well. Playing in goal as a secondary role during my career helped with that, I think – it gave me perspective of the whole field.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
Water polo was important, but not a livelihood. It had its place in my life, but any setback was something to move on from quickly to get to the next good part. Plus, having a great group of guys around helped me move on.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
The original OMWA teams were the core of my life for so many years, playing, travelling, laughing, drinking! We got to know how each other played and interaction became second nature. Because at first we were a closed club, it built bonds that frankly never went away. We were, to some degree, the underdogs and so we had to pull together and we did. Not sure much else in my life comes close to the spirit we had together.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
Critical. I learnt from school coaches, then the Old Boys who started the team and I was not bad.
I think that the team encouraging me to go to Dundee and work under a coach they knew so well - David Barr - was key. He took me from an attacking role to primarily a defensive one, and I refined that learning and playing with Ian Marsh.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
In general, make it more “professional” in the UK. I am not sure of the situation now, but water polo took a back seat to social swimming in the allocation of pool time when I was playing. It was not a problem at school, of course, but it was for many clubs. So pool time was limited to when the general public did not want to swim. Making more deep-water pools would also build the strength and abilities to compete with European teams. Really, in the UK, it is played as an amateur sport and if good players want to develop they have to go abroad – at least that was the case for most of my life.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Duck when someone swings at you! Ask Ian Marsh!! But seriously, life-work balance came from my career, the need to stay fit in mind and body. And how to get on in a team environment, relying not just on your abilities, but those of the people around you. All team sports played well give you this, for me it was water polo throughout my life.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Life was a balance, so it taught me to work hard and efficiently so I had time to dedicate to the sport. It has certainly taught me to identify those I can rely on, as well as making me give back. And to give as much as I can to whatever I am doing. Finally, it gave me the opportunity to settle better into a new life in the US as I was able to find a team here and I met people outside work with similar interests.
Iain
Macleod,
Class of 1979
I studied Medicine at Dundee University from 1979-1984 and, after completing my pre-registration year in Dundee hospitals, I returned to Croydon and spent three years on the Croydon GP Training Scheme. I worked locally over the next six years, apart from a season playing polo in Perth (Australia) and a year working in New Zealand, before moving to Worcestershire in 1994. I joined St Saviours Surgery in 1995 and am now the semi-retired Senior Partner.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
Ian Marsh! He invited all the pupils in the swimming team to come along at lunchtimes to give it a go and it just went from there.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
Medicine certainly had a higher academic attendance requirement than most courses, with more lectures and then clinical training on the wards. The university would have preferential times (early mornings or blocked lanes) to allow us to do swimming training in the pool even if it was busy and I’d do gym work in the evenings. It helped that the Head of PE at Dundee University at the time was David Barr – a former GB water polo captain and coach.
I struggled to stay fit during my early hospital jobs as we worked between 80 and 110 hours a week, but once I became a GP my hours were easier.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
Captaining Trinity to their first English Schools title in 1979 was memorable – we played the finals in Grimsby in October after we’d left school, so had to reassemble the team from universities all over the country.
I was lucky enough to play for
Scotland and in 1983 we played in a tournament in Tenerife. Apart from the usual other minor nations we usually played (Wales, Israel, Finland, Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark), Spain took part. They were in the top three teams in the world and had a legendary player called Manuel Estiarte – who was the best player in the world at the time (in seven matches we scored 70 goals as a team and came third; he scored 70 goals himself as Spain won comfortably). We only lost 15-8 to them in our best game and my claim to fame is marking him briefly and not being scored off! Interestingly, after a hugely successful Olympic career in and out of the water for Spain, Manuel is now a tactical adviser for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City FC.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
Dogged determination?! I wasn’t the best player in the Trinity team, but had a steady head and perhaps a calming influence, which might be why Ian picked me as captain before some better players. I certainly made the most of what talent I had!
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
I think I always felt I’d done well to achieve what I had – I’d have loved to have played for GB and had a trial as an U21, but really wasn’t fast or strong enough. I had knee surgery four times between the ages of 11 and 24, which was part of the reason I took to water polo as it was non weight-bearing – I was never going to be a rugby player!
I managed to play for 45 years until I dislocated my shoulder and had my third shoulder surgery. I was advised by the surgeon that enough was enough . . .
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
The Trinity team of 1979 was very different from what I see of the current players coming through Trinity. Few of us were club swimmers and most were just good all-round sportsmen who were good swimmers and Ian Marsh coached us well to use the strengths we had. We would all play polo every lunchtime and every afternoon after school that we could, and we hated the swimming training. It was
only when I went to uni that I put the hours in swimming that were needed to play at a higher level. In those days, we also all played for the Old Boys in Surrey, London, and national leagues, so we got plenty of match experience and travelled around together, which was good for team spirit.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
I really owe it all to Ian Marsh, who got me started and interested in polo and made me captain when I wasn’t the obvious first choice. He’d be the first to agree that I made the most of what talent I had! He really was the force behind many of the talented polo players and the achievements of Trinity teams over many years. David Barr, at university, was also a great coach who had written books on polo and who came out of retirement to coach the newly formed Dunfermline WPC. We won the Scottish Club title at our first attempt.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
Sadly, over many years involved in the game and watching my son play in development squads, the problem ultimately comes down to funding and public exposure. It is regarded as a great spectator sport in many other countries, but we seem unable to engage the public interest in the UK. As with most minority sports, it is chronically underfunded, so the best players aren’t retained as they have to work for a living. When they play for GB, they’re up against professionals who do nothing but play polo. I understand that changed briefly before the London Olympics and the result was obvious as the quality of that generation of players stood out among other British players. But the funding wasn’t sustained; as soon as the Olympics were over, most of the minority sports were cast back into obscurity. Personally, I would tithe Premiership footballers 10% of
their income and give it to all other sports – they’d never notice the loss and it would give millions to more deserving causes!
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
I was previously a racquet sports player and am now a golfer, so I always loved the contrast of polo with its physical challenges and the camaraderie of being part of a team.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Medicine can be a very demanding job, both physically with the long hours and mentally. I always felt that water polo kept me fit enough to cope with those demands, but also provided a great stress reliever for the day job.
Graham King, Class of 1983
I studied French, Law and German at Surrey University and went on to become a solicitor. I am now Chief Legal Officer for Mitsubishi Motors, based in Amsterdam. I am married with three children. I have completed six Iron Man triathlons and swam the Channel in 2013. I played water polo for the Amsterdam Dolphins for 15 years. I keep fit now by swimming in open
water all year round.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I was a member of a swimming club from a very young age, so it was natural to want to make use of the great pool at Trinity and try an exciting new sport. I started playing when I went to Trinity in 1976.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
There always seemed to be plenty of time to work and play sports and the school encouraged us to get
involved with all activities.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
Training with the Greek team in the lead-up to the Youth European Championships in Istanbul in 1983 and trying to mark their centre forward – it didn’t matter how many of us held his arms or tried to tackle him, he invariably scored. We affectionately called him “steel balls” for obvious reasons . . .
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
Swimming stamina from my early
days and leveraging off decent ball skills acquired from all the other sports we did at school (rugby, cricket, etc).
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
We lost to the City of London School every year in the qualification rounds for the national championships – so we never got the chance to win the national finals like Jerry Bedwell’s great team had done. I suppose we picked ourselves up each time and kept going.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
My memory is of having good fun in our team, made up from a quality bunch: Keith Long (RIP) from the year above; Ian Long, Phil Bone, Trevor Moss, Dave Knight, Paul Petty, Dave Luckman and Guy Rowcliffe from our year; and Graeme McLeod, Hugh Richards and Ian Lance from the year below.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
I would not have achieved anything without the support, training and encouragement given by Ian Marsh.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
Since water polo is such a great and demanding sport in requiring and combining extreme physical fitness with the necessary ball skills, it would be good to see it becoming more accessible to all kids - helped by more schools having their own swimming pools or by making public pools more available for training.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
The main lesson was how fit you need to be and how organised and dedicated you must be to achieve at top-level sport.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
It has made me fearless in water in all conditions and enabled me to swim throughout the year in open water.
Graham King
Brenhan Heath, Class of 1992
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I started playing when I was 10 or 11 years old at Trinity. My older brother, Tristan, attended after school training on a Tuesday evening, so instead of cycling home on my own, I decided to go along and see what water polo was all about.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
I’m not sure I balanced my academic studies as well as I would have liked, as I enjoyed sports far more than some of my A levels. I remember attending a U20 Great Britain training weekend just before my A level maths examination which, on reflection, wasn’t ideal.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
My favourite moments from water polo were the school national finals. In my school career I believe we won this competition twice (1989 Worcester and 1991 Radcliffe, Manchester), but we also lost many times, which made winning even more special. We had a brilliant school team, helped enormously by Robert Anderson who, as a 6’5’’ schoolboy, was a formidable and talented goalkeeper. It was a challenging competition; King’s School Grantham, Torquay Grammar and Bedford Modern were our regular rivals.
In my early 20s, I was very fortunate to play for London Polytechnic, and went on to win Division 1 and I subsequently played in the first round of the European Championships in Finland. I also represented England in a tournament in Loule, Portugal, but personally these didn’t compare
to my memories of winning the schools competition. I also have many enjoyable memories of playing
Brenhan Heath
1991 team photo: Back Row, left to right. Brenhan Heath , Jon Swan, Robert Anderson, Bruce Mainwaring, Paul Middleton, Daniel Preddy Front Row, left to right. Paul Findley, Martin Anderson, Chris Allen, Robert Veal, Tim Sawyer
water polo for the Old Boys, the Old Mid-Whitgiftians team. Iain Macleod, Chris Mann and Richard Crawley deserve a special mention for their relentless support and encouragement.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I was very fortunate to be a strong swimmer and that started because my mum took my brother, sister and me swimming at South Norwood pool every weekend from a young age. I seemed to pick up the skills of water polo very quickly and was lucky enough to have a fast and accurate shot.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
There have been a lot of setbacks and failures, but I have largely continued to play water polo since I left school. I have played in all five divisions of the British Water Polo League (BWPL). Exercise and sport have always been a significant part of my life.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
I am pleased to say that I am still in contact with several of the players from school and was delighted to be best man at Martin Anderson’s wedding. He was very much a gifted sports person who could turn his hand to any sport and he developed into a very strong water polo defender.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
Our coaches, Ian Marsh and Dave Lawson, were excellent and we were lucky to have such devoted members of staff.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
In England, I feel water polo remains very much a minority sport and lacks funding. If we are ever to compete on the global stage,
this will need to be addressed. It appears that the BWPL is being cut from five divisions to three due to a lack of officials which, again, will not help develop the sport.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Sport offers so much to young people and I quickly realised how difficult it is to be successful. Reflecting upon this has helped me to be more determined and resilient in all aspects of my life.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Water polo has had a significant positive influence in my life and encouraged me to take part in many other sporting opportunities, including running the London Marathon many times and completing Ironman distance triathlons. I am very grateful that I can turn to sport and I’m still physically active, as I believe it helps me to be a better person in all aspects of my life.
Dan Bentley, Class of 1997
I began my journey in sports science and outdoor sports at Pembrokeshire College, where I earned my HND. This academic foundation led me to an exciting career as an outdoor instructor in France and Cornwall, where I taught surfing, kayaking, climbing, and more. Alongside this, I dedicated ten years to serving as an RNLI beach lifeguard in Bude, Cornwall.
My passion for helping others eventually guided me to St George’s University London, where I trained to become a paramedic. After graduating, I joined the South East Coast Ambulance Service and later qualified as a Hazardous Area Response Paramedic. Five years ago, I transferred to the South Western Ambulance Service and
Dan Bentley
moved back to Bude with my wife, Sophie, and our two children, Daisy and Max.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
My background was in swimming for Beckenham Swimming Club. I tried water polo and really enjoyed it. I played for and captained Trinity, Beckenham, Kent, and Invicta water polo teams.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
I had supportive teachers,coaches and parents. It took time management and maybe more commitment on the athletic than the academic side, if I’m honest.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
Being selected to represent England Schoolboys to play against South Africa Schoolboys and winning the England national championships with Invicta water polo club.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
My love for the sport and the fact that I enjoyed training.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
With the help of teammates, coaches, and family.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
Everyone settled into a role, either specialising in defence, attack, wing, etc and we could pretty much anticipate what each player would do.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
They gave us all huge encouragement and were dedicated to spending the time enabling us to play the sport we loved. There were long travel times to play matches in far-off places.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level? I would like to see consideration of water polo when building or developing new pools, and for it to be introduced in schools as part of swimming lessons. There could be subsidies from Sport England as pool time is expensive and there should be investment in areas that don’t have water polo teams. My closest teams are at least an hour away in Newquay, Exeter or Barnstaple, which means that, sadly, I don’t play anymore. And I would have really liked to introduce my children to the sport I enjoyed so much.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Teamwork, dealing with failure and success. It also gave me sportsmanship and the opportunity to represent my country.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
I have always been involved in water and fitness, whether it’s lifeguarding in pools, teaching surfing and kayaking, or surf lifesaving for Bude surf lifesaving club and the RNLI. I’m now responsible for delivering swiftwater rescue training to the Hazardous Area Response Team in the South Western Ambulance Service.
Steve Leathwood,
Class of 1997
After leaving Trinity, I went to Loughborough University to read Spanish and French Studies. There I continued with water polo, playing on the team that won the British University championships and playing on the GB student team in 2002.
Since then, I have moved to Thailand where I work as Cruise Director on a scuba diving liveaboard vessel, running trips through remote destinations in Thailand and into Myanmar. I also teach all courses from Beginner through to Instructor level, and have recently received recognition for 20 years as a professional diving instructor. I still play water polo whenever I can, playing for Guam and a Shanghai club team in tournaments throughout Asia. I play for Croydon in local league games and in the British Water Polo League when I visit family in the UK each summer.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I started playing at 10 years old in my first year at Trinity when Ian Marsh invited all the new pupils who were known competitive swimmers to try water polo. I loved it from the first moment.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
To be honest, my time was always heavily skewed in favour of sports, to the despair of my teachers!
Dan Bentley
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
I remember playing in the England U16 Schools Team with Daniel Bentley. At over 6ft 4in, I was the biggest player on our team, yet the same size as our smallest South African opponent.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I think being a “lefty” helped me greatly, together with my size. I remember being 13 years old and playing for the Southern Counties team at Pond’s Forge in Sheffield, and the coach saying to me ‘’You’re big, go in the pit’’, which is what started my journey as a centre forward.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
At one point I injured my throwing hand, playing against Birmingham in the British University Finals. I split the webbing between two fingers, and had to leave the water to get stitches. I remember being devastated at not being able to
finish the game, but was back in the water within days, playing with the fingers taped together because I hated the idea of having to sit out.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
It is wonderful being able to rely on different players who specialise in different parts of the game - the speed swimmers, the very strong defenders, the playmakers and the shooters - while knowing that all of your team are more than capable of playing any of those roles. I still play now with several players I know from my time at Trinity, and see others in local matches around London.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
I am very grateful to Ian Marsh for getting me into water polo. His ‘’roll, look, give him the pass’’ and several regular choice comments have stuck with me through the years. I have played for more than 20 years under some coaches, and the fact they know your strengths and weaknesses can really be helpful for
bringing out the best in each player.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
I would like to see water polo given a more equal footing with swimming, particularly with funding. It is hard to see the two sports having to compete against each other.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Teamwork, focus, commitment, dedication. These sound very clichéd, but are all equally relevant.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Before water polo, I was heavily involved in competitive swimming. Water polo rekindled my interest in being in the water, to the extent that I still love to play whenever I get the opportunity. Oddly, I think it is strongly responsible for the career path I have followed, which has taken me from the pool to the open ocean.
Matthew Spurr, Class of
2000
I left Trinity to study Engineering Science at Oxford, moved into investment banking for 15 years, and am now a government adviser.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I enjoyed swimming and team sports. When I was at primary school, a few older boys who used to swim at the same club used to talk about water polo at Trinity. I started playing when I went to Trinity
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
Once I reached Fifth Form, I decided which sports I wanted to pursue and which I didn’t. Ultimately, there’s no time to do everything so, at some point, you have to choose not to spread yourself too thinly.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
The U16 final against King’s Grantham. One of our strongest players didn’t make it past the
first quarter, so we had the reserve goalkeeper playing outfield once exclusions started racking up. But we dug deep to pull off a victory.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
You need a level of swimming confidence and fitness, but the technical skills for water polo have a very high bar. Lots of people can just pick up and kick around a football or rugby ball, but the basic skills for water polo - mainly to do with body position in the water - take years to develop.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
Perseverance and persistence. Also, disappointment at youth level can seem enormous at the time, but the support of friends and family can help put things in perspective.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
We were a good bunch of friends most of the time. Arguments on the training field weren’t that common, but they did happen.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
Ian Marsh taught so many of us how to play water polo. Given
what I wrote earlier - that water polo technical skills take years to develop compared to some other sports - a coach who can impart the fundamentals to complete beginners was so important.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
It comes down to water time, good quality pools and enough coaches. If water polo is going to grow, we need to find a way to offer at least three to four sessions a week for junior players.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
I don’t think it’s specific to water polo. Team sports in particular can give a lot back. When in the moment, sport - especially at youth/junior level - feels as though it’s all about the result. But the journey and the process are the things that stay with you longer.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
I still have friends I made from water polo, including those in rival school teams. After some time away from water polo, I have started playing, coaching and refereeing again and am enjoying it.
Ashley King, Class 2001
After school, I went straight to university to study sport management at Sheffield Hallam. Once university finished, I came back to London to find work and have been in the banking industry ever since. I am currently head of trade finance at the National Bank of Kuwait (International) Plc. What initially drew you to water
polo, and when did you start playing?
My sport was swimming, and I knew about water polo through my club before I joined Trinity, but I never played it before I started school. I was asked to try out during my first year at Trinity. I really enjoyed it and never found it much of a challenge in terms of understanding the game/ techniques etc - it basically felt quite natural to play.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
To be honest, not very well. I was never really the greatest academic, I always found studying a challenge and much preferred my sport, whether playing or watching. I did whatever I could to participate and do as little school work as possible. The real challenge was during my A levels when I was away for at least a week each month leading up to them, playing for England/GB. It would mean taking school work with me and doing it between training and matches.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
For school, it would be winning the national school championships
in my final year; we beat King’s Grantham 10-9 in the final and I scored 9 goals. It made the minibus journey to and from Middlesbrough worthwhile.
Internationally, playing in the World or European Finals were both pretty special, especially considering we were the first team to do this in a very long time.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I was a strong swimmer, I swam for the county and was making national times. I also had good eye/ hand coordination, which definitely helped. One other thing is I don’t like to lose!!
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
Not getting picked for a certain squad/team or losing big games pushed me to train harder and be more determined to be there or win the next game. Self-belief is a very good attribute to have as well; a lot of this game is about confidence, in yourself and your ability. If you have that and apply it in the correct way, you will do well.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
Most of the teams I’ve played in have been a close group. There are only 14 of you in a team and certainly, when you reach international level, that team does not change much and you start to build relationships. I’ve tended to find that most of those I’ve played with have similar goals, motivations and even core beliefs and values, which makes your team that little bit stronger and closer. Some of my best friends to this day are people I met when I was 14 from the other end of the country.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
Mr Marsh was great. He gave me all the basic skills I needed and brought me on from the very beginning. He is a fantastic man, giving up his free time to drive us up and down the country to play and be successful. He was the first person to believe in me; without him and the time he dedicated to not only myself, but others, I would not have had the opportunity to experience some of the most memorable times of my life. I cannot thank him enough for his help, his drive and the faith he placed in me. As a boy, you don’t really appreciate the things people do for you. It is only now as an adult, with children of my own, that I am thankful for
such people in my life.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
More money could be placed into the sport, with better national coverage to attract more people to take part. It’s a great sport to watch and play. It’s just not really given the time and plays second fiddle to the likes of swimming and diving.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Hard work pays off, and to enjoy and appreciate everything you do, because it is very short-lived; before you know it, it is over and you have to start becoming an adult and do the boring stuff like working and paying bills.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
What I did in the pool - training hard and playing to win - I’ve taken into my adult life. I work hard and try my best at everything I do. I try to lead by example, both at work and for my kids, and that’s something water polo has instilled in me. I’m a leader and not afraid to take the charge when it is needed.
Sean King, Class of 2007
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
Before joining Trinity, I had played a lot of football in and outside of school, but I was also a club swimmer at Bromley. During a Year 7 class swimming lesson, my PE teacher suggested that I give water polo a try, so I did and really enjoyed it.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
Not that well, in all honesty!
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
Without doubt it would be the first game of the London Olympics against Romania. The double doors to poolside opened for us to walk out and the noise of 5,000, mostly British, supporters was special. I was doing my best to hide it, but I was very emotional; it was even difficult to walk up the steps and onto the podium for the presentations before the game.
As soon as it was announced that London would host the 2012 Games in 2006, I had dreamt of being part of the British team and I guess it hit me at that very moment. I channelled that adrenaline and energy to win the swim-off and become the first British player to touch a water polo ball since 1956!
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your
success in water polo?
I was quite a late developer and not necessarily one of the best players till around U16. Playing other sports, from a young age, meant I was extremely fit and robust and they gave me an array of transferable skills, which made me a better water polo player. I have always found it hard to motivate myself in individual sports, but am driven by being part of a team and having a clearly defined role.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
There are two low points that standout from my playing career. One was from 2010, and as I was finishing my degree, when I was informed that my UK Sport funding was to be withdrawn and I would no longer be part of the Senior National Team. I can still remember the conversation with my parents, who were an incredible support throughout my career, following the BUCs Finals in Sheffield, about what was next. The coach at the time left his position a week or so after that news and I received a phone call asking that I meet the new coach, who immediately brought me back into the squad.
The second was at the test event in the lead-up to London 2012. We did not play any official games in the pool prior to the Games, but we did have a two-day training camp. During an internal game, I blocked
a shot with my left hand, which left my thumb in absolute agony. I was rushed to hospital where I was informed that I had torn the volar plate in my thumb and I would be out of action for eight weeks (the Games started in six!).
I was so determined to get back as quickly as possible and will be forever grateful to our physio and S&C coach at the time, who built me a programme to keep me as active and fit as possible. I was only cleared to play in the Olympics on the day before selection was made and had to play right up until the competition itself in a soft cast and heavy strapping.
The reality is that very few athletes experience more highs than lows in their careers. I guess I never lost sight of my ultimate goal to represent Great Britain in an Olympic Games, but I was fortunate to be surrounded by an incredibly supportive team of coaches and, most of all, family.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
They are, and always will be, my closest friends. The bus journeys and locker room are the things I miss the most. Twelve years on, we try to get together once a year and it’s immediately like we’ve never been apart. We know that we will always be there for one another.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
There are three coaches deserving of a mention. Marshy introduced me to water polo and was integral to me developing a lifelong love for the sport. He is still, without question, the best coach in the country at doing this. On leaving Trinity, I worked with Jim Caulfield, who poured hours into developing me technically. Under Jim’s guidance, I progressed from a good junior club player to be voted in the Pan-Pacific Games Best 7, then the fringes of the Senior National Team, as a 16-year-old.
Finally, I was fortunate to play with and be coached by my close friend Andrei Iosep. Andrei captained Romania in London 2012 and won everything as a player in a career that saw him play in Croatia, Italy, Spain, USA and Hungary. We were teammates in CW Navarra, where he completely changed the way I thought about water polo at that time. He has been the biggest and most positive influence on my own coaching. He became Great Britain coach for a short period, and we achieved the best results in my time playing for the national team. He is now the head coach in CN Barcelona, one of the top Spanish clubs, and we remain in regular contact.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
This is a difficult one, because it’s hard to know where to start! I have a good friend in Worthing who has created a Swim School called Drenched. It is different from traditional swim schools in that boys and girls are also taught water polo alongside developing their swimming. It has grown to now cover six locations across Sussex, bringing a number of kids into the sport who ordinarily would not even be aware of its existence. The creation of more swim schools with the
Sean King
Sean King
opportunity to learn water polo too around the UK can only benefit the sport and participation levels - and ultimately the national team performance too!
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
I guess something that has always stuck with me is how I have never forgotten how people made me feel, both good and bad. The best people I was fortunate to work with or be around were experts at building connections with everyone and making you feel valued.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I received through my career in water polo. Firstly, I will always have somewhere to stay, all over most parts of the world, but primarily Central and Eastern Europe. It was perfect preparation for my current role, managing, working with, and getting the best out of our people.
Can you highlight some memorable moments or achievements from your time coaching at the school?
We’ve experienced more than our
fair share of success in the past decade, but my proudest and most memorable moments are always the Old Boys fixtures. Winning is great, and we strive to do so at every opportunity, but our main aim is to expose as many Trinity students to water polo as possible.
What are the core values or principles you instil in your players both in and out of the pool?
I think there are two that stand out. While the past few years have been hugely successful in national competitions, our aim each season is to be among the top six schools. Linked to this is that we understand the importance of being good losers, and respectful victors! Secondly, discipline is key. If you attend training regularly, then you play. Our students set up the environment every session - hats, balls, goalsbut they also make sure they leave it as they found it. Having won the U15 title earlier this year at Habs Boys School, I was particularly proud when, after the medal presentation, I looked up at the balcony to see our team cleaning up rubbish from the spectator gallery.
In your opinion, what sets apart a successful water polo programme
at senior school level?
We get great buy-in from our students, which means training is always well attended and we are well prepared come the business end of the season. Our senior students play a crucial role in this, not only as role models, but in connecting and encouraging our younger students. I will be forever grateful to our current U6th students who have made it “cool” to be a water polo player!
Over the years, how have you seen the landscape of school water polo evolve, and what key changes have you observed in training methods or player development?
More schools are taking up the sport, which is fantastic, and employing specialist coaches to run their teams. This has meant the standard has risen significantly. The number of girls schools competing has also grown exponentially. The English Schools Final this year was shown on a live feed for the first time, as both the senior boys and girls finals were held at the same venue. The game itself has become less static, with a greater focus on movement and swimming rather than competing 1-1, with more major fouls given and therefore opportunities to play man up/6-on-5.
Danny Casey, Class of 2011
I studied Spanish and Chinese at University of Leeds, getting a 2:1. I then spent one year in Shanghai, China and six months in Granada, Spain as part of the course.
I played water polo for the Leeds first team, and played with the Shanghai team in China. I also played with Huetor Vega (Granada). In my third year at Leeds, I was Vice Captain of the Leeds Water Polo Team. In my fourth year, I was the Leeds Uni Men’s Team Captain & Coach, the Women’s Coach and a Swimming Coach. The men’s team came third and then fourth nationally in the BUCS competition for two consecutive years under my leadership.
I graduated from Leeds in 2015, after which, instead of going down the traditional London graduate scheme route, I followed my heart back to Granada. Here I taught English and played the water polo season for Huetor Vega again, where we won the Andalusian League and the Play Off tournament (one of the highest standards of WP I have played), qualifying for the 2nd National League.
Then I went to Seville, to play for Epsilon Sevilla Water Polo Club, and to begin my work as an international agricultural commodities broker. I
played and worked in Seville for three years, before having a burnout. I went to Argentina for one month before the end and even played Water Polo with a local team there.
Eventually the burnout was too much, so I left and went on a journey to go and study yoga, which I had been practising more and more since living in China.
My journey took me to Australia, Sri Lanka and then India. In March 2020, I was in a Silent Meditation Retreat in Sri Lanka when Covid-19 began . . . three years later I finally left Sri Lanka, and came back to the UK. (I also played water polo in Sri Lanka.)
In September 2022 I was back in London, I started working for Red Sky, as Senior Commercial Manager, working in Food & Agriculture Software and Finance solutions. I played water polo for Beckenham and Invicta again, playing with Aarav Ganguli, Fred Turpin, Pierre Rivet and Alex Jones.
I am living in Bristol, working on my new company Om Holistic, www.om-holistic.com
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I joined Trinity at 11 and was already a serious swimmer, for which I am extremely grateful to have received a sports scholarship
I was quickly scouted out by Mr Marsh and so naturally began to play water polo in the first few weeks at Trinity. I continued to swim competitively for Beckenham Swimming Club and Trinity until year 9, when I gave up competitive swimming and took up water polo. I subsequently joined Beckenham and Invicta Water Polo Clubs and began to play for them in the Kent, London and the National Leagues.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete? Good question. I am not sure that I ever did manage to balance my academic and athletic commitments. I tried to do whatever work I could at lunch time and free periods. I used to train every single week night, sometimes in the mornings before school as well, so inevitably I was often still up at 1am completing work for the next day.
My A-Level results show how I failed to balance all my extra-curricular activities with my academic studies Regardless, I am grateful for everything that sports, especially water polo, gave me, that I could never have got from more academic studies.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
That’s easy. I was year 11 and it was the English Schools National Finals in Walsall, Birmingham.
We were playing in the National Finals for U16s and also U18s. Me and Adam Dyer (2011), Jonny Cannon (2009), Mark Pepper (2009), Tom Price (2010), Kitan Ogunfeibo (2011), Tim Poole (2011), Jack Barnes (2010), Daniel Brown (2010), Marcus Lawton (2011), Chris Thamlin (2010) and many others not mentioned . . . We were playing King Edward’s Birmingham in the final. Mike Jukes (from Birmingham) was reffing. Within three minutes Jonny Cannon (our best player) was wrapped and sent to the dressing room. Then we conceded a penalty.
Mr Marsh screamed, “Oh no, what are you doing!” and kicked his toe against the wall.
As the legend goes, Mr Marsh broke his toe in this legendary national final by kicking a wall.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
Vincit qui patitur. Determination.
Persistence. Passion. Teamwork. Perfectionism.
Mr Marsh and his anecdotes! Our favourite ones were:
“How did you miss the goal? The goalkeeper could have been sat on the side eating a cheese sandwich!” He is right of course, as he always was. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. A shot off target is worthless compared to a shot on target.
As he also used to say: “Practice doesn’t mean perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.”
Once again, he taught me a lesson I’ve never forgotten, and which I have taught many people since.
I worked hard to reach the level of skill, tactics and athleticism needed, without any of which, it would not have been possible.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
By getting back up every time. By trying again. By training harder. When I’d get angry and annoyed with myself for losing a game, my father would say: “Turn that anger into determination for the next game.” This seemed to work.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
Many of the infamous funny stories, jokes and good memories come from the camaraderie of the Trinity water team.
We laughed, we joked, we cried. It all happened in the pool, outside the pool, and usually in the minibus
driving back from Walsall! We worked hard, and played hard. Training was intense but fruitful. Games were demanding and usually triumphant. The feeling of winning a national final was, of course, incredible. As it was to compete in all of the national finals we ever competed in, which were many!
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
The student can only be as good as the teacher.
Mr Marsh, Mr Lawson and Mr King were fundamental to my development as a water polo player. I simply wouldn’t be the player I am today if it were not for all of them. I likely would have never found water polo had I not gone to Trinity.
I am eternally grateful to them for all of their warmth, support and encouragement over the years.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level? Great question! A bigger, better and more serious club set-up.
In Europe, US, Australia and many other countries, one sports club may have up to five different sports belonging to the same club body. This means there is a huge pool of talent to bring through and they can choose the sport that is right for them! All at minimal cost and with as much community focus as possible. This would mean those who excel at any given sport at school are given a place outside school where they can play with, and learn from, children who are as good as, or better, than them, which is where real improvement and learning is made.
Naturally this will benefit the children, schools and clubs alike.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Passion and commitment is more powerful than any God-given physical or mental talent.
I learnt that when we love something, we can do it to our heart’s content. Water polo has taught me that one must do what one loves to achieve real perfection, mastery and execution of any action.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Water polo has been a huge influence on the man I am today. It has made me strong - mentally and physically. It made me know pain. It made me know hard work. It made me feel victory.
It also taught me defeat, and how to rise again from the ashes.
It especially taught me team-work. A team is only as good as its weakest player. A strong player is good, but it takes a leader to win games.
These are all strengths and skills that I embody every day. Water polo has taught me how to lead men and women.
Danny Casey
Tilda Williams, Class of 2015
I went to Bristol University to study Philosophy, after which I started a two-year grad scheme in 2018 at Lloyds Bank, working in financial markets. I went on to work in digital banking at Lloyds and last year I took a sabbatical to travel the world.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
What initially drew me was my hatred of swimming training as a kid and my love of ball sports. I started when I was about eight because my dad was part of the men’s team at Beckenham so he took me along one day. I found it much less gruelling than swimming training and really enjoyed the team aspect.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during
your time as a student-athlete? Naps. You need at least an hour nap a day to make it work. I remember spending many afternoons in the nurse’s office during my time at Trinity, sleeping off the early morning training so I didn’t keep nodding off in class.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
My favourite moment was definitely beating Serbia to qualify for Worlds at the European Championships in Rome in 2015. I had spent years training with the same GB team and it was a huge moment when all the sacrifice felt like it had paid off.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I think going the distance with a sport requires blind determination and the ability to overcome setbacks. It was never my intention for it to go anywhere, I just loved training and the rest followed.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
I have had my fair share of failures, being dropped a week before my age group’s European Championships was difficult.
Overcoming setbacks like that and trying again the next year define you so much more than the years you walk into a team.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
I would describe it as serious but silly. We all put everything into training, but had a laugh doing it. I have made some lifelong friends through water polo.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
They’re pivotal. I had one particular coach that had a real impact on me and led me to achieve goals I didn’t think possible. I have also had some absolute stinkers. A coach can make or break your experience of a sport, so don’t be put off if you have one you don’t quite gel with. Another team or coach might be what you need to ignite your love for a sport.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level? More funding, more space for teams to train, and more coverage of the sport. It’s an extremely demanding sport and great for fitness on every level. I think every school should teach it.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Failure is essential for success. Keep on trying at things and you’ll eventually get there.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Playing water polo has been the single most defining thing I have done in my whole life. It got me into university. It got me my grad job. Properly applying myself to the sport has followed me into all aspects of my life.
Kathy Rogers, Class of 2017
In 2017, I graduated from Trinity and started at the University of Michigan. This was a four-year degree programme where I studied Public Health. Alongside this, I played in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) league. This included 20 hours of training a week and competitions around the US. It was a truly amazing experience; the collegiate system is amazing for developing you as an athlete, while studying.
After graduating, I started playing professionally. The first two contracts I had were in Greece, where I played for NO Larissa. Here, I also started two online master’s programmes: one in Global Health from the University of Manchester, and the second in Epidemiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
For this past season, I have played for CN Catalunya in Barcelona. I have really enjoyed the Spanish league and love the city, so I have signed up to stay at CN Catalunya for the upcoming season. I hope to graduate with my master’s this summer and pursue a PhD, but maybe after the water polo career.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I started playing when I was eight years old. I joined because my two older brothers played, and I always wanted to be a part of anything they did. I think I fell in love with the sport because I enjoy being on a team and I loved being in the water and it’s a super fun way to do that.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
Although I did this a lot during school, finding time to do homework with training before and after school, it took time to really figure out how to do it well.
Make sure you have a plan and know your deadlines: this allows you to prioritise, but also be flexible with it. Working out how you study best allows you to save time with schoolwork. There is also some element of sacrifice. I have always made training my priority, and then school work was a must, so I definitely missed social events and doing other things. However, water polo has now become my job and it takes me all around the globe, so it is for sure worth it.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
I don’t think there is any one moment. Often it’s the little small
teammates, who I know all give so much to play.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I think that I am very coachable. I am good at taking my coaches’ advice and applying it. I really enjoy learning tactics or skills. I am also very determined and competitive, which means that when I am struggling with something, I rarely give up on it, especially if those around me can do it.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
I think the main thing I have struggled with is my mental health. For me, what was important is that I asked for help and was willing to take some time off to let myself heal. It does take time and energy to learn skills that will improve your mental health, but having tools that I can implement daily has allowed me to really enjoy water polo and life
things you work for in training on a daily basis as a team and when they come into a game and work, I think those are the most gratifying moments in sport.
I’ve had some really big games this year, particularly for GB, like beating Portugal to qualify for the Europeans, beating Israel and Croatia to qualify for the World Championship and then beating South Africa to finish top 12. All of these were really special, but what I like the most about them was sharing the moments with my
beyond the pool.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
I love being part of a team in water polo. You go through so many highs and lows, and your teammates become your closest friends. There is always good banter and a lot of fun when being on a team, and that’s normally what gets you through the hard parts.
What role did your coaches play in
Kathy Rogers
your development as a water polo player?
I’ve had so many fantastic coaches, and Sean King is definitely on the list. As an athlete, along with most jobs, it’s hard to turn up every day super-motivated and ready to go, and many coaches have been there to motivate me on a day-to-day basis. Many of the best coaches don’t just coach when you are in the pool, but teach you how to be an athlete and the discipline needed.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
The biggest change I want to see is increased participation. I think that water polo can teach you so many water safety skills and it allows kids to learn how to tread water and be fine with being splashed or going under the water. I think it is a very enjoyable way to spend time in the pool. When you are in PE classes, you don’t just run, you play different sports, so I think it’s important not just to swim but also to do other aquatic sports.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
I think it would be about my mental health; when you stop enjoying what you are doing and that affects other parts of your life, it’s important to be able to recognise that something needs to change. For me, I struggled to ask for help, and learning that it’s OK not to have everything under control at all times and that you need help was important. I think that making sure you enjoy at least the majority of your daily job is important.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
I think the biggest influence on it is skills like discipline, determination, and the value of hard work. I hope that these skills will stay with me for life, because I know how useful they are in achieving any goal I set myself. Again, keep in mind that it’s important to enjoy what you are doing.
Freddie Pearson, Class of 2017
Since leaving Trinity, Freddie has gained a BSc in Business Management from the University of Manchester and has since returned to London to pursue a career in the creative arts. Freddie is a television/ film actor, model, and photographer, living between London and Los Angeles.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I started playing water polo at the age of 12; I’d been thrown into swimming at a very young age, but scoring goals and taking part in the more competitive environment was more attractive to me than just repetitively completing lengths in a swimming pool. I joined Beckenham Water Polo Club through the swimming set up, and my older brother and I found ourselves playing every Sunday evening. It became a staple in our development as teenage boys.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
I’ve always had a work hard, play hard mentality - I’m incapable of doing one without the other. Competitive sport became a release for me mentally, and physically; I always had an abundance of drive and energy, so playing sport gave space for my academic endeavours. The discipline and time management skills required to succeed at international sport often overflowed into other areas of my life, including academia, so there was a knock-on
effect that definitely helped.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
My first international cap for Great Britain is a moment that I’ll treasure for ever. I was competing for my country against Romania in Bucharest, and it felt as if all the hours of sacrifice and dedication had been worth it for that one moment alone. I feel chills down my spine even now, having had the opportunity to sing the national anthem alongside boys from across the country that I’d known for most of my teenage years. My mum was also able to travel out and watch me play; she had sacrificed so much and dedicated an abundance of her time to get me there. That cap is as much hers as it is mine.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
I was never the most technically gifted athlete, nor the most intelligent - but what separated me from others was a relentless will to win and an engine inside me that would not stop. I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest, but I always felt like I had a point to prove - you’d have to drag me out of the pool if it wasn’t on my terms. Losing was never an option for me, and that mentality carried me through to many victories that may have looked as if they’d been in the depths of defeat.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
I’m very fortunate to have two incredibly supportive parents. My dad worked very long, late hoursand my mum would drive me to 5am swimming sessions and pick me up at 10.30pm training sessions before dropping me home, where dinner was already made. Being knocked back and giving up because of setbacks wasn’t something I ever considered, especially when my parents had sacrificed so much to help me pursue my dreams within sport. I’m also a big believer in the saying: you either win, or you learn. Therefore “failure” was only ever an opportunity to grow and learn.
Can you describe the camaraderie
and team dynamics within your water polo team?
I can’t remember a better feeling than experiencing all the highs and lows of sports as part of a group. It made the victories even sweeter, and you really learnt about your peers, and yourself, when things didn’t go the way you all wanted. Some of the friendships I’ve built in sport are the strongest I have, because they’ve seen the ugliest parts of me - and have still stayed by my side. But also, the laughs and moments shared in the back of minibuses driving to Manchester, Solihull, Liverpool, Reykjavik or Ljubljana - places I’d have no other reason to go - are core memories of my development that bring me a lot of joy to look back on.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
I think only as time goes by, and as you get older and gain perspective, do you realise how influential certain individuals have been in your life. The patience and support that was shown to me during my time at school was special. I struggled academically; I had so much energy all the time that I didn’t know how to control, I was easily distracted, I didn’t like listening to others, and I really didn’t enjoy training - all attributes that I’m sure at times made me a nightmare to coach. I was fortunate that I had a coach such as Ian Marsh, who was always so passionate and really used his experience to guide young athletes. He’s a great example that sometimes the old ways are the best ways, and wisdom isn’t something that should be taken for granted.
Sean King was a massive figure in my development as an athlete, but mainly as a person. I watched Sean play at the London Olympics, so to then find myself playing alongside him at national level, and being coached by him at school and international level, was a special journey. He always looked out for me inside and outside of the pool, and without him, I’m not sure I would’ve been able to stay at Trinity for as long as I did.
I know both Marshy and Sean would’ve got a lot of pleasure from putting me back in my box when I needed it most, but even more so from watching me succeed - which they both played a huge part in. What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
Funding and exposure. It always breaks my heart a little that the one sport I happened to be really good at, was a sport no one had ever heard of. It’s the most challenging sport, and only after stopping playing and losing swim fitness can I really appreciate just how impressive water polo players are.
Having access to a swimming pool at school is a massive privilege that not many children in the UK are able to enjoy. With greater funding and exposure from platforms across the country, I’m sure the sport would greatly benefit and be appreciated for the spectacle it brings.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond
the pool?
I wouldn’t be the person I am today, I know that much. Waking up at 5am in the mornings, training at lunch and after school, jumping into a cold pool while half asleep, learning how to manage my time, finding the balance between work and play, and making short-term sacrifices for long-term gain - the sport has given me all the tools to succeed in life.
I started playing men’s water polo at the age of 14. I was regularly drowned, beaten up, dragged, kicked, and pushed - I’ve had my fingers broken, contact lenses roll behind my eyes, and I’ve been dropped from the international setup two weeks before a competition I had trained for six years to compete in - and I wouldn’t change a single thing about any of them. I know that doesn’t exactly sound like I’m selling the sport, but no competitive endeavour will toughen you up like water polo - it really is a game of sink or swim, and that’s a great lesson for life.
Freddie Pearson
Freddie Pearson
Maclaren Crawford,
Class of 2018
After leaving school in 2018, I moved to a city in the north of Spain called Oviedo. I spent a year living there and working in a school and playing for the local rugby club. While in Oviedo, I began learning Spanish and once my year had finished, I applied and got into the University of Manchester studying Business and Spanish. I spent four years at uni, including a year in Madrid, where I completed a yearlong internship at an insurance broker called Howden.
During my time at uni, I was very involved in the rugby club, being part of the committee for two years and being elected club captain in my final year. Since graduating in 2023 I have travelled around South America and I now work in London as an insurance broker within the terrorism and political violence market for the same company at which I completed my internship in Madrid.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I have been an avid swimmer from a young age and after joining Trinity in 2011 I was quickly introduced to water polo, a sport I had not come across before. Being someone who has always preferred team sports, water polo seemed to be the perfect fit as it allowed me to incorporate my swimming ability into a fast-paced team game and it was a great way to make new friends at the school.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
Model answer: While at times it could be tough, having training sessions on a Friday after school allowed me to complete my schoolwork over the rest of the weekend. When we were in tournaments, such as the ESSA School Finals, which would take up more time, I found that the discipline I had learnt from playing the sport to a high standard allowed me to really focus on upholding my academic commitments in a short amount of time.
Honest answer: I prioritised sport at every turn and left most of my schoolwork to the last minute, often doing homework during break, lunch, or sometimes even before school.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
A highlight of my water polo career would be representing England in the EU Nations Cup, where we beat hot favourites Switzerland in the semi-finals. They had an absolute beast of a centre forward, however, through an effective drop defence, we managed to nullify him completely.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
My ability to get on with and connect with my teammates. As it is such a fast-paced sport, being able to anticipate your teammates’ movements in the water can give you that half a second of space
needed to get a shot off on goal. Other than that, I’d say my 6ft 8in monkey arms came in handy!
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
The only way anyone can, knuckle down and stick at the hard work. Every setback is an opportunity to work on your game and become a better player.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
We were one big group of mates. When I played, as it was a smaller sport compared to others, it meant that often there would be boys from two, three or four year groups within the squad. Of course, the older boys played more of a senior role, but there were no cliques. In fact, some of my fondest memories are of the three-hour bus journeys we took to Walsall for the ESSA Finals. I think we spent the majority of our time crying with laughter.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
A huge role. I will forever be grateful to Mr Marsh for showing me the ropes and helping develop my initial technique. He also taught me the importance of never throwing a “cheese sandwich” when taking a shot at goal. Equally, Mr King helped take my water polo career to new heights; seeing my potential from a young age, he refined my technique and got me involved with the GB set-up, eventually leading to me representing my country several times at the junior level.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
One thing that could benefit the game is having more connection to swimming clubs. I was a swimmer for seven years and had never come across the sport until I joined Trinity. Having more connection between the two sports would give access to a much larger pool of talent.
What were some of the most memorable lessons you learnt from your water polo career?
Aside from the famous “cheese sandwich” lesson, I would say “when defending in the pit, keep your hips on the surface of the water”. Let’s just say that I learnt
that one the hard way!
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
One way that water polo has influenced my life, especially my professional life, is being able to
hold my nerve in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s stepping up to take a penalty or pitching one of your ideas in a meeting, you need to be calm and relaxed to perform your best. Through water polo, I had the opportunity to gain this experience from an early age.
2018 Trinity Water Polo
Aarav Ganguli, Class of 2023
I left Trinity last year and I’m currently studying Modern Languages and Linguistics at the University of Warwick.
What initially drew you to water polo, and when did you start playing?
I joined Trinity as a keen swimmer and cricket player, but as someone who has always preferred team sports to individual sports, water polo served as a good bridge between the two
sports that I played.
How did you balance your academic and athletic commitments during your time as a student-athlete?
The support that was on offer from teachers and coaches while I was at school was incredible. It
allowed me to stay on top of work and pay the necessary attention to my academics, while also ensuring that I was having fun outside the classroom.
Can you share a memorable moment or game from your water polo career?
A moment that will stay with me
for ever will be winning the U18 national title in my last year at the school, as well as winning the U15 national title two years in a row.
What specific skills or attributes do you think contributed most to your success in water polo?
As a goalkeeper, I would argue that the most important attribute that helped me was having clear and practical communication in order to control the defence, and to (try to) help with the attack in any way possible.
How did you overcome setbacks or failures along the way?
As a keeper, a mistake could have been the difference between winning and losing in such a short game. It always helped me to know that I had the support of my teammates, and that they believed in me, and that helped me to do the same.
Can you describe the camaraderie and team dynamics within your water polo team?
Playing school water polo was always an extremely enjoyable experience, as the team was always very supportive and worked hard for each other.
What role did your coaches play in your development as a water polo player?
I would never have been able to achieve anything that I managed to if it wasn’t for Mr King and Mr Marsh. From having never played the sport before, to playing in various different places at a high level, I never would have thought it was possible without the support of Mr King and Mr Marsh, and any other coaches I’ve had along the way.
What changes would you like to see in the development of water polo, particularly at the grassroots level?
I think one area that would help water polo to become a more popular sport in the UK would be to make it more open to the public. I feel that it is quite an easy game to understand at a basic level, but there is not a lot of access to it. For example, I didn’t even know it existed as a sport before I came to Trinity, so I think more awareness about the sport would definitely be a step in the right direction.
How has your experience in water polo influenced your life beyond the pool?
Being part of such a close team at school, and in other water polo teams, has allowed me to make really strong connections in various situations that I don’t think I would have found myself in without having played the sport.
Graeme Jupp (Class of 1961) reveals how a broken leg led to the formation of the Old Boys’ water polo team in the late 1950s
In the mid-1950s, Trinity School had very strong swimming teams that won almost all their matches. In 1957, I broke my leg while playing a 1st XV match. While recovering, I was frustrated at being unable to play a field team
sport, so I approached the master in charge of swimming - Bob “Chips” Brierley - to start a water polo team.
Despite not having a school swimming pool, a group of seniors, some of whom had experience with
local clubs, began training in the small pool at Croydon Baths, down Scarbrook Hill. This resulted in polo games being held after swimming matches against several schools. Thus water polo emerged as a school sport, due to an accident!
The school continued to play, despite the difficulty of using public baths, until the advent of the new Shirley Park pool in 1965. The Headmaster of the day, Oliver Berthoud, kindly offered the Old Boys use of the pool by setting up a properly constituted club - Old Mid Whitgiftian Swimming Club (OMWSC) - which was quickly formed under the chairmanship of Brian Hollands and captained by me. In the early days, the club provided social swimming at the beginning of our session, followed by swimming training and matches against other Old Boys and college teams. Gradually, polo took over from racing as the main activity.
Several Old Boys played polo for local clubs in local leagues, some of whom were persuaded to change their allegiance to OMWSC as we joined the Surrey League. As our strength improved, we made our way to the top Surrey division and entered second and third teams into the league. At this time,
school polo under Ian Marsh was becoming very strong, with many of these youngsters making their senior debuts with the Old Boys and adding quality and depth to our squad.
By 1971, we felt strong enough to apply to join the National Water Polo League Division 2 for the 1972 season, which involved a great deal of travelling and weekend games. In our debut season we finished a creditable 5th out of 10 teams.
The next year we were 3rd and, in 1974, we won the second division title, gaining promotion to become one of the top 10 elite teams in the country. This would involve matches against four London sides and teams from Cheltenham, Liverpool, Birkenhead, Birmingham, and Teesside. We were the only “closed membership club”, while the others drew from the best players in their areas.
All this time, we were still involved in Surrey and London League matches and knock-out competitions, playing
more than 90 games a season through all our sides!
We also started gaining representative honours. Almost all the squad had county junior caps, with others attaining greater heights:
• Jim Groom - GB U20
• Chris Hackett - GB U20 and full GB squad
• Richard Crawley - Scotland
• Iain Mcleod - Scotland
• Graeme Jupp - British Universities
• Mike Graves - Southern Counties U20
Unfortunately, 1974 proved to be the summit of our achievements as Division 1 proved a bit too strong for us, especially as we had lost a couple of key players. But we continued in the National League lower divisions, and were helped by inviting Old Whitgiftian players to join us.
Did you know that newsletters and programmes relating to music at Trinity throughout the years are now available on our digital archive?
The archives will give you access to old magazines, photos, school productions etc. Trinity
The login details are as follows:
For the username: guest id: trinity
Ian Marsh, Water Polo Coach 1971 -present
What drew you to the sport of water polo and how did you become involved in coaching at Trinity?
I belonged to a traditional swimming club in Tunbridge Wells in which the coaches were volunteers who had come through the club. Unlike today, when many professional swimming coaches view water polo as an evil to be avoided, our coaches only wanted what was best for their swimmers, so they encouraged us to try everything. I was really a swimmer but, like my friends, I would attend the occasional Friday night polo session when I could. Because there were five or six of us, we had the makings of a team . . . indeed, we proved to be very good, winning the Southern Counties boys’ club title on two occasions. Before I knew it, I was playing for Kent Juniors and Seniors, and the journey had begun. When I arrived, Trinity had only recently moved to Shirley Park, but water polo had already been played and three Old Boys, the Jupp brothers, had started a polo team, so it was natural that I would try to keep providing a conveyor belt of talented players. Entirely consisting of Trinity Old Boys (and myself as a member of staff) we entered the National League and were eventually promoted to the First Division, so clearly the arrangement was working.
Can you highlight memorable moments or achievements from your time coaching at Trinity.
The English Schools` Water Polo
Championships started in the mid-1970s and we have entered teams every single year. I am extremely proud that we are the only school in the country to have won national titles in every one of the six decades since its inception. I cannot think of another school that has even won in three different decades. I hasten to add that, in recent years, I have just been Mr King`s sidekick, but I like to kid myself that I have made the occasional contribution to our recent successes.
Although those successes remain fresh in the mind, of far greater significance to me is the recollection I have of the fantastic collection of personalities with whom I have had the privilege of working over all those years. There were so many moments, so many anecdotes, tears of despair, tears of joy, that I could write a book! Far too many to mention individually, they entertained and amused me more than they will ever know and I am extremely grateful to them all for their truly exceptional contributions. I particularly love it when players continue to play long after they have left school. One who achieved senior international honours stated that his greatest achievement was to play a competitive match in the same team as his son, a challenge he realised in his 50s.
I will especially remember my players who are sadly no longer with us.
What are the core values or principles you instil in your players
both in and out of the pool?
Sport surely is a reflection of life in microcosm, so the key word without a doubt is “honesty” - in their approach to training, to matches, to their teammates and to their lives in general. Having chosen to play, players need to be reliable, committed and conscientious, because we all need to work as a team if we are to maximise our talents. It’s no surprise that in life those who work the hardest achieve the most, because there are no shortcuts. Representing the school, their parents and their coaches, the students know that they have a responsibility to conduct themselves impeccably . . . and they do.
What sets apart a successful water polo programme at senior school level?
The simple answer is “continuity”. From the outset, I have always encouraged even the 13 and 14-year-olds to come to Senior training. I can hear first team rugby, hockey and even cricket coaches gasping at this revelation, especially given the commonly held misconceptions about the nature of water polo, but our results prove that it works and I have never once had any misgivings about this policy.
The older boys look after the youngsters, encourage them and even advise them while playing in our practice games, because they can remember all too clearly how they were the newcomers just a few years earlier. At the same time,
the youngsters learn how to train conscientiously and they get to see just how good they themselves could eventually be if they work hard.
Over the years, how have you seen the landscape of school water polo evolve and what key changes have you observed in training methods and player development? This is a bit embarrassing, because you are asking me to compare today’s world with the way it was more than 50 years ago. To put it into context, it’s like me on my first day at Trinity asking a colleague what it was like in 1921! Back when I started, we were always competitive, of course, but I suppose it was much more relaxed in those days. They were gentler times, because successes came and went but no one made a big deal of either. No league tables, no publicity departments, no sports scholarships, we just took what came. Player development was haphazard at best, because although county and district selection was available (I coached both), international teams were few and far between and selection was simply a lottery.
Iam Marsh elected an Honorary Life Member of ESSA
simply a member of staff looking after the team, so the standards are clearly improving. This is especially noticeable when schools manage to encourage their players to join local clubs so that they can broaden their horizons. More schools are entering the various competitions, but the nature of the sport clearly favours those who have ready access to a pool, which is a shame because it is a great sport.
Nowadays, I suppose everyone is more accountable, which is not always conducive to a healthy attitude to sport. Many schools now have a water polo coach rather than
Certainly, at Trinity, we are far more “professional” - in a good waythan sixty years ago, because at last they have a top coach who has played at the highest level. Even
so, the students are constantly reminded that we play for fun, and any success we achieve is simply a bonus. Many of our players are in talent squads at London and GB levels, so it is more transparent than ever it used to be, but we have still had exceptional players who have not been appropriately recognised, so there is still much to be done. However, one look at a list of the International players we have produced over the years suggests that we are doing something right, and the boys know that with the right attitude they too can achieve great things.
Future Pathways: Learning from STEM alumni
As part of Trinity’s commitment to empowering students by providing resources, guidance, and insights into various professions, industries, and entrepreneurial paths, we recently hosted our first STEM careers talk for this academic year.
Navin Peiris (Class of 1991), Vice-President, Model Development – Emerging Risk; Areeb Siddiqi (Class of 2012), Process Modelling Engineer at DBD International; and Joshua BernardCooper (Class of 2017), a Flight Dynamics Engineer at Eutelsat OneWeb; returned to showcase the value of STEM degrees and the diverse career paths they open. Beyond the foundational scientific knowledge, our guest speakers highlighted the importance of STEM fields in developing critical skills that are valuable across a wide range of industries. These skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, data analysis, and innovation. By sharing their experiences, our speakers provided insights into how a STEM education prepares graduates to succeed in today’s ever-changing workforce.
Barnaby Corry (Class of 2022) – My experience learning Mandarin
The Chinese department was delighted to welcome Barnaby back to talk to Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Form students after his trip to China (he arrived back in the UK at 11pm the night before!). His trip was made possible by the University of Cambridge, and involved visits to schools and universities across China. Barnaby’s journey into Mandarin began when he joined Trinity in 2014, visiting Taiwan in 2018 as part of a Trinity school trip. His passion for Mandarin continued, leading him to pursue Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Cambridge.
Throughout his travels, Barnaby immersed himself in the rich cultural tapestry of China. One unforgettable experience was witnessing the flag-raising ceremony in Tiananmen Square, where rows of children stood in solemn observance.
During his return to Trinity, Barnaby also shared insights into his university course, which extends beyond language proficiency to explore diverse subjects such as Confucian philosophy, Korean politics, anime, and religion.
Tom Mogford (Class of 2021) shares experiences of studying abroad
It was great to welcome back Tom, who is undertaking a four-year course in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
As part of the Trinity Twilight sessions offered to our Sixth Form students, Tom’s talk centred on the application process, what it’s like to study abroad, the course, and the general logistics of living away from the UK. The students had some fantastic questions, and many were keen to carry on the conversation after his talk had ended.
Tom spoke enthusiastically about how much he is enjoying university and Colorado – the outdoor life (he can go skiing in the morning and be back for afternoon lectures), and the views of the mountains from his shared accommodation. All of this made everyone in the room very envious!
Freddie Benedict (Class of 2014) returns to judge Trinity’s Eurovision Song Contest 2024
Congratulations to all Trinity staff and students who took part in Trinity’s first “Eurovision” event, which showcased incredible performances in a range of languages from around the world.
Lower Sixth student Alexander Molony led the organisation of the event, recruiting singers and judges to make the event a success. A judging panel of teachers from various school departments were supported by Freddie, a professional jazz singer and musician. We were also treated to a rendition of a Brazilian song by Freddie – proof of the sort of career that learning languages at Trinity can lead to.
Lower Sixth student Juno Goode was declared the winner, with Second Year Lucian Joshi in second place and Lower Sixth band ‘Die Fizzies’ in third.
Trinity alumni double act returns to inspire
Trinity alumni Joe Charuy and Nathan Thomas, both from the Class of 2017, returned to deliver a follow-up talk, “Front Office for Dummies Part II: Investing in Yourself”. Joe is an Equity Research Associate at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and Nathan is a Quantitative Research Associate at Fidelity International.
Their engaging presentation, filled with camaraderie and practical insights, was well-received. Nathan covered frontoffice intricacies, key skills for success, and buy-side finance concepts. Joe focused on oil and gas market analysis, emphasising the importance of owning one’s niche.
They credited Trinity for providing valuable transferable skills and fondly recalled their time there. Their message to students: be passionate, leverage the alumni network, and embrace diversity programmes. Joe, relocating to New York in July, advised students to be impactful. Students appreciated their honest comparison of finance careers and the unexpected job opportunities they encountered. Joe and Nathan closed with a Warren Buffett quote, reminding them of the importance of being thoughtful investors in their careers and lives.
Alumni inspire sixth form students at Higher Education Week
During our annual Higher Education Week, Lower Sixth students participated in workshops on UCAS applications, degree apprenticeships, and gap years. The Futures Team, who are there to advise students on university and careers, encourages students to keep their options open and have multiple pathways after A Levels. We welcomed back eight recent leavers who are studying various subjects at leading universities for a panel discussion on personal statements. On the Thursday of the week, 20 recent alumni participated in a Q&A in the Mitre Theatre, followed by a group session in the Sixth Form Centre, allowing students to learn from their experiences.
Overall, it was a successful Higher Education Week, leaving students excited and prepared for the application process.
Trinity alumna Lucy Ellis-Keeler (Class of 2015), delivers an impactful speech on mentorship
Each year, Trinity collaborates with a small group of Croydon primary schools to enhance their current offerings by providing students access to engaging activities and excellent facilities. Recently, we hosted a lunch for the headteachers, featuring keynote speaker Lucy Ellis-Keeler, from the Class of 2015.
Lucy delivered an impactful speech on the importance of mentorship and belonging, sharing her personal experience of academic and social struggles during her GCSEs and the transformative guidance of her history teacher, Mr Foster. This mentorship instilled confidence in Lucy, leading her to attend Trinity and later study Philosophy at the University of Bristol.
Lucy’s initiatives, such as organising mentoring walks with Vital Voices, highlighted the empowering effects of mentorship. She advocated for fostering mentorship among teachers across schools to create a supportive network that enhances teacher retention, student outcomes, and innovation in education. Trinity aims to work with TPPS (Trinity Partner Primary Schools) headteachers to implement Lucy’s inspiring vision.
Alumna Kira Chathli coaches Trinity girls’ cricket team
We were thrilled to welcome back Kira Chathli (Class of 2017), a professional cricketer for Surrey and South East Stars, to coach our girls’ cricket team. Girls’ cricket has grown in popularity at Trinity, with this year’s team making history in The Cricket Paper National Girls U18 100 Ball Cup.
Kira’s coaching session last year for International Women’s Day was a huge success, improving the students’ performance significantly. Despite Sixth Form Sports Day, nine Lower Sixth girls stayed after school to learn from Kira, valuing the professional guidance.
Kira, on the Surrey County Cricket pathway since she was nine, made her debut at 14 and has played 45 times for the South East Stars. She won the Hundred with Oval Invincibles in 2022 and will represent Trent Rockets this year. Kira also holds an ECB Level Two coaching qualification and founded Next Level Cricket Academy.
Thrilling water polo match: Trinity students vs alumni
In an exhilarating water polo match between the current Trinity boys and our alumni, spectators were treated to a showcase of skill and determination. The game kicked off with the Trinity boys taking a strong lead in the first quarter, finishing at 4-2.
By halftime, the alumni had fought back valiantly, but the boys maintained a narrow lead with the score at 6-5.
Joe Charuy, the goalkeeper for the alumni, showed visible frustration each time the Trinity boys scored, hanging his shoulders in disappointment. However, Joe redeemed himself with a spectacular save just three minutes before the end of the match, helping to keep his team in the game.
The tension was palpable as the teams entered the final quarter with a tied score of 9-9. In a nail-biting conclusion, the Trinity boys ultimately triumphed, finishing the match with a 14-12 victory. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit and sportsmanship of both teams.
Zafirah’s inspiring talk to the architecture society
Zafirah Sadiq (Class of 2021) delivered an inspiring talk to the Architecture Society, sharing her experiences from Newcastle University, where she graduated with honours in Architecture. She highlighted the unique course structure that focuses on continuous project development over traditional exams and the importance of hands-on experience with machinery.
Zafirah emphasised the necessity of conducting personal research to foster creativity and innovation and discussed a key project where she designed a 1,500sq ft building. She emphasised the importance of a strong portfolio for aspiring architects and shared her journey, including narrowly missing a place at Cambridge, which motivated her to excel at Newcastle. Zafirah also advised on ensuring overseas courses are certified by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) for UK practice. Looking ahead, she expressed her ambition to pursue a Master’s degree in Japan.
Her talk, filled with insights on passion, resilience, and the versatility of an architecture degree, left students motivated and ready to embark on their own architectural journeys.
Alumni artists shine at the Trinity Open Art Awards
For the first time in the history of the Trinity Open Art Awards, our alumni community was invited to submit their artistic creations. We were thrilled to see work by alumni from various decades in a diverse array of mediums.
Chris Great (Class of 1960) showcased his pastel and charcoal piece, Potions, which was prominently displayed above Richard Peers’ (Class of 1982) The Zodiac Night Sky Bowl, crafted from sycamore. The exhibition also featured recent leaver David Aisa Miller (Class of 2023) with his
stunning photograph of Monument Valley in Arizona, USA, and Noah Gilham (Class of 2023) with his piece Älskling.
The event was held in conjunction with this year’s GCSE and A Level artwork, creating a vibrant and dynamic showcase.
“Many thanks for inviting me to the Open Art exhibition. The Art Department did a terrific job putting the show together. I think they can look forward to some very good exam results,” said Chris Great. Congratulations to Richard, who won first prize in the alumni category.
Cemal Ezel OBE (Class of 2002) delivers inspirational speech at Trinity’s prizegiving ceremony
Cemal, recently awarded an OBE for his services to the homeless and social enterprise, delivered an inspirational speech at Trinity’s prizegiving ceremony. He shared his journey from Trinity to founding Change Please, a coffee company dedicated to helping people out of homelessness. Cemal’s passion for social enterprise was sparked by a life-changing conversation in Vietnam, which led him to embrace the “rocking chair test”, a reflective exercise to evaluate one’s life’s impact.
Cemal expressed deep gratitude for the bursary that allowed him to attend Trinity, highlighting the school’s role in shaping his success and instilling a commitment to give back. His speech resonated with the audience, including his proud parents and alumni peers, inspiring the current Trinity community to pursue excellence and contribute positively to society.
Festival of Ideas: Alternative Perspectives
The academic, the PR man, and the Rugby World Cup winner . . . it may sound like the beginning of a terrible joke, but this combination delivered a brilliant set of talks and an engaging panel discussion at this year’s Festival of Ideas.
We welcomed Maggie Alphonsi MBE (2014 Rugby World Cup winner, World Player of the Year, and now a leading pundit), alumnus Ian Johnson (Class of 1986 and founder of IJPR Media) and Dr Alana Harris (Director of Liberal Arts at King’s College London) for an evening of thought-provoking discussion on the importance of alternative perspectives in sport, broadcasting, academia, and society at large.
Evensong at Peterborough Cathedral – Saturday, April 6
Former choristers gathered for a special Evensong alongside the current Trinity Choristers at Peterborough Cathedral. This occasion was significant, marking the final cathedral course to be hosted by David Swinson, Trinity’s Director of Music, as he prepares to retire at the end of this academic year.
We also said farewell to another musical legend, our organist Chris Dowie. His departure signifies the end of a remarkable chapter, during which he has accompanied generations of choristers since the inception of the choir by David Squibb in 1965.
Martin French, another leading musical figure from Trinity’s past, lent his expertise to the proceedings, having organised the choristers’ courses for more than 20 years, contributing his bass voice to the choir.
The event drew more than 30 choral alumni, from year groups 1970 to 2023, who thoroughly enjoyed making music with the choristers again.
Tour of the Whitgift Almshouses – Wednesday, May 8
We were delighted to welcome Trinity alumni and friends for a tour of the Whitgift Almshouses. The sun shone, the gardens looked lush and beautiful, and we had an excellent tour guide in Whitgift Almshouse resident, David Bulbeck. We visited the chapel and other areas, where David gave an historic update. Our tour concluded in the Audience Chamber, where we were able to continue the conversation over tea and cake.
Steeped in history, the Whitgift Almshouses, called the Hospital of the Holy Trinity, are situated in Croydon’s town centre, and were founded and built in the 16th century by Archbishop John Whitgift to serve the poor and needy of Croydon. The first stone was laid on March 22, 1596, and the date is still celebrated each year as “Founder’s Day”.
Thank you to the staff at the John Whitgift Foundation for looking after us so well.
Trinity Charity Golf Day in aid of Lives not Knives – Wednesday, May 22
The Trinity Golf Day is a staple in the school calendar. Every May, we welcome alumni, parents, staff, and friends for a relaxed round of golf.
Golfers competed for Individual Stableford and Team Prizes, Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive, and the Long Putt Competition. Despite light drizzle, the event retained its laid-back atmosphere, with 65 golfers enjoying the day and great conversations.
We thank our sponsors – Castore, Cobra Energy, Kitlocker.com, Tribe Advisory, and others – for their generous raffle and auction prizes. A charity auction after dinner raised £2,500 for Lives Not Knives (LNK), a youth charity preventing serious violence and school exclusions. Eliza Rebeiro, LNK’s CEO, gave an inspiring speech.
Donate here:
Save the date: Next year’s golf day is on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Croham Hurst Golf Club. Offers of sponsorship or prizes are appreciated. Contact Laurie King: alumni@trinity.croydon.sch.uk
The Mitre Society Lunch – Thursday, May 23
We had the immense pleasure of hosting lunch at the Savile Club in London to honour our generous Mitre Society alumni and their partners who have pledged a gift in their will to the Trinity Bursary Fund.
Headmaster Alasdair Kennedy and Director of Development Jason Court warmly welcomed our guests, some of whom had travelled quite a distance to be there.
The headmaster shared exciting updates about the school’s progress and achievements, and this was followed by a lively and engaging Q&A session that sparked thoughtful discussions. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our community’s dedication and to express our heartfelt gratitude for their continued support.
Did you know that pledging just 1% of your estate to the Trinity Bursary Fund would have a lasting and enduring impact on future Trinity Students? If you are interested in finding out more about leaving a legacy and becoming part of the Mitre Society, please contact Francesca Catling at fnc@trinity.croydon.sch.uk
Milestone Reunion – Saturday,
June 29
The Milestone Reunion is the highlight of our events calendar, ensuring that we end the term on a high note. Preparation begins in January, dedicating the first month to tracking down as many of our “lost” alumni as possible. This year’s efforts were particularly successful, with over 50% of attendees returning to Trinity for the first time since the day they left. Witnessing their joy as they reunited with friends, classmates and former teachers after 20, 40, or even 60 years gave the Development and Alumni team immense job satisfaction.
Attendees travelled from as far as Australia, Canada, and the US, demonstrating the enduring importance of their Trinity connections. The event enjoyed sunny weather and an electrifying atmosphere. We were honoured to have the former Head of Alumni Relations, Melodie Johnson, join us to launch her new book, The School at North End, part of a series of memories collected from alumni who left in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. To pre-order your copy email development@trinity.croydon.sch.uk
Our exceptional catering team, Chartwells, provided a fantastic spread, and Matt, our photographer, captured the essence of the day. You can view the full album on My Trinity. As one guest remarked, “It always amazes me that conversations flow so naturally despite the time that has elapsed since we last saw each other.”
We look forward to seeing many of you at our future events throughout the year. Don’t wait so long to reconnect!
Andrew Thomas (Class of 1986) hosts drinks reception at The Reform Club –
Wednesday, June 5
We were immensely grateful to Andrew Thomas (Class of 1986) for hosting members of the Trinity community including alumni, past parents, and supporters of the Trinity Bursary Fund at the Reform Club in Pall Mall. It was great to see so many alumni of different generations mixing and chatting, as well as parents past and present who enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect or to have a night off from exam season.
Andrew gave an insightful and entertaining speech about the history of the club, which was founded in 1836 for the benefit of those Radicals and Whigs pledging support for the Great Reform Act of 1832, and who subsequently developed the club as the political headquarters of the Liberal Party. It was also the setting for Jules Verne’s protagonist, Phileas Fogg, who made a wager of £20,000 with members of the club that he could circumnavigate the world in 80 days.
Today the Reform Club is politically neutral, yet it remains true to its founding principles. In this spirit, it continues to be a place for progressive thinking, social change, and the championing of reform. This led Andrew to speak about the ways in which Trinity champions social mobility through its bursary programme. He concluded his speech with a heartfelt request for everyone in the room to make a donation, no matter how big or small, to ensure that the whole school community continues to benefit from learning with peers who have different experiences.
Thank you once again to Andrew for hosting such a wonderful evening!
Unbelievable Jeff – a fundraiser for the Trinity Bursary Fund – Thursday, April 18
Supporters of the Trinity Bursary Fund gathered for a fantastic lunch at Balls Brothers Minster Court, with none other than the Unbelievable Jeff Stelling taking the hot seat. The event was a resounding success, as Jeff effortlessly entertained attendees while championing a cause close to his heart: Prostate Cancer UK.
Hosted by Headmaster Alasdair Kennedy, along with Jason Court, Laurie King, and Nicholas Ramdas from the Trinity Development and Alumni team, two tables of alumni and friends, buzzed with energy.
The atmosphere was simply electric. Special thanks go to George Chuter and the team at Under the Posts Ltd, whose support helped us to raise an impressive £2,250 for the Trinity Bursary Fund.
Swinson Swansong – Sunday, June 30
Trinity students, alumni, and parents celebrated the illustrious career of Trinity’s Director of Music, David Swinson. Renowned across Europe, Swinson’s impact spans concert halls, opera venues, and pop culture, influencing countless students over two decades.
The event, planned since March, featured a celebratory concert of Mozart’s Mass in C minor performed by a 200-member choir and a symphony orchestra in the Trinity Concert Hall. Surprise performances included new compositions by Piers Tattersall and Owain Park, highlighting the themes of repetition, rebirth, and love. There were also operatic performances by Trinity staff and alumni, a prosecco interlude, and a jazz session by the Trinity Jazz Collective with special guests from the alumni community, including Freddie Benedict on vocals, and directed by Joe Pettit, our Head of Jazz, Rock, and Pop.
The evening concluded with a humorous farewell speech by history teacher Julian Timm, filled with anecdotes about David. The event was a memorable tribute, and the Trinity community wishes David Swinson a happy retirement with his family.
Class of 2024
Chris Robinson, Class of 1970
Chris played cricket for the old boys and captained the 1st XI for two years and also captained the Sunday team. He played rugby for the old boys mainly in the A XV but also in the first team. He was a very good wing forward and a great team man.
Chris was General Secretary of Association from 1983 to 1988 before he moved to Loughborough with his wife Lily. Chris and Lily were very popular members of the club at Lime Meadow Avenue and he will be sadly missed.
John De’Ath’s enduring legacy: A generous bequest to the Trinity Bursary Fund
We had the enormous pleasure of welcoming Sonia Brough, widow of former student John De’Ath MBE (Class of 1951), to Trinity, accompanied by one of John’s closest friends, Robin Laurance.
As dedicated members of the Mitre Society, John and Sonia have been ardent supporters of the Trinity Bursary Fund for many years. Sonia and Robin travelled from Oxford to present us with a generous cheque that John had bequeathed in his will. This significant contribution will enable more students to benefit from the exceptional education at Trinity, an experience that John cherished deeply.
John’s legacy is a testament to his enduring connection to Trinity and his commitment to supporting future generations of students. We are profoundly grateful for his generosity and the continued support of Sonia.
Did you know that pledging just 1% of your estate to the Trinity Bursary Fund would have a lasting and enduring impact on future Trinity students? If you are interested in finding out more about leaving a legacy and becoming part of the Mitre Society please contact Francesca Catling at fnc@trinity.croydon.sch.uk.
Dates for your diary
Autumn 2024
Saturday 7 September
Festival of Rugby
Trinity School
Sign up here
Saturday 14 September
Trinity Open House
Sign up here
Tuesday 1 October
Reception for Supporters of the Trinity Bursary Fund
Wednesday 6 November
Pre-Christmas drinks for all alumni
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
Sign up here
Monday 11 November
Remembrance Day Service
Trinity School
Sign up here
Wednesday 4 December
Oxford University Rugby versus major Stanley’s XV. For more details email development@trinity.croydon. sch.uk
Friday 6 December
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Trinity School
Sign up here
Tuesday 17 December
U25 Xmas Party
Trinity School
Sign up here
Spring 2025
February
Drinks for all alumni
Friday 21 March
Annual Reunion Dinner
Summer 2025
Wednesday 21 May
Trinity Golf Day
Croham Hurst Golf Club
Sign up here
May
Mitre Society Lunch
June
Alumni and Parents Club Event
June/July
Milestone Reunion for the Classes of 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010 and the 1950s and 1960s decades
