NZ Women's White Caps set to represent Aotearoa at 2025 World Aquatics Championships

Water Polo New Zealand is proud to unveil a bold new identity for our national water polo teams: the White Caps.

As we enter a new era of international competition, the White Caps symbolise strength, unity, and the relentless drive of our athletes to rise to the top - just as white caps crest on the surface of powerful waves. This new name reflects not only our connection to the water but also the energy, resilience, and pride that define New Zealand water polo.

To mark this exciting step forward, we are also thrilled to announce the athletes who will wear the White Caps for the first time as they represent Aotearoa at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore this July.

2025 World Aquatics Championships team

We are incredibly proud to announce the athletes selected to compete at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. These players have earned their place through dedication, performance, and commitment to representing Aotearoa with mana on the international stage.

Team list:

• Aggie Weston (Tauranga)
• Bridget Layburn (North Harbour)
• Darcy Spark (North Harbour)
• Elizabeth Gault (Atlantis City)
• Emily Nicholson (North Harbour)
• Emmerson Houghton (Tauranga)
• Gabrielle Doyle (North Harbour)
• Gabrielle Milicich (Marist)
• Holly Dunn (Atlantis City)
• Jessica Milicich (Marist)
• Kaitlin Howarth (North Harbour)
• Millie Quin (Marist)
• Morgan McDowall (Atlantis City)
• Sophie Shorter-Robinson (Marist)

Travelling Reserve:

• Gabby MacDonald (Atlantis City)

Non-travelling Reserve:

• Alisha Winstanley (Tauranga)

Coaching/Management Team:

• Head Coach: Angie Winstanley-Smith
• Assistant Coaches: Facundo Policarpo & Eelco Uri
• Performance Coach: Barbara Kendall
• Massage Therapist: Simon Breen
• Team Manager: Polly Powrie

The 2025 World Aquatics Championships mark a key milestone on the pathway to the next Olympic cycle. It will be the first time New Zealand competes under the White Caps identity — and an opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s growing presence in the international water polo arena.