Teen water polo star hopes to make a splash for SA

Pinelands teenager Zack Cicero is getting ready to make a splash for his country in an international water polo tournament in Argentina next month.

Swim South Africa (SSA) selected the 18-year-old SACS matric pupil and 14 other boys to compete in the under-18 Water Polo Championship in Buenos Aires, from Tuesday July 2 to Tuesday July 9.

Zack, who has been playing water polo since he was 9, was chosen after he represented Western Province in the under-18 Currie Cup national water polo champs held in East London in March.

“I have been dreaming of this since I started playing water polo. Playing against international teams is huge as there's always the opportunity to learn and grow in the sport,” said Zack.

Western Province under-18 water polo coach Jabulani Sibiya said: “He is extremely dedicated to the sport. He never misses a game, and I wish him all the best for the tournament.”

SACS water polo coach Devon Card said the school was very proud that Zack had made the team.

Zack’s father, Donavan Cicero, started a BackaBuddy page two months ago, and so far it has raised R30 000 of the R80 000 Zack needs to cover his flight, accommodation and daily expenses.

“We know the economic conditions and the fact that many people are struggling during these trying times,” Mr Cicero said.