DOB: 18/04/1998

PLACE OF ORIGIN: North Shore, Auckland

OCCUPATION: Student

EDUCATION: Kristin School

NICKNAME: Li

CLUB: North Harbour

PREFERRED CAP NUMBER: 13

POSITION: Centre forward

YEARS IN SENIOR WOMEN'S TEAM: One

 

How do you manage to juggle work, study, training, social life etc./any wise words for aspiring water polo players?

Making a weekly plan, always plan ahead. Also to prioritise my time. But always make sure you're enjoying it!

 

When did you start playing water polo?

My sisters plated and one day her team didn't have enough so I jumped in and played and love it so then I joined the club.

 

What is your favourite water polo memory at home?

Winning gold at National League in 2014 for North Harbour. And winning the New Zealand Schoolgirls Test Series versus Australia in 2014!

 

What has been your international water polo highlight?

All my international trips I've experienced to date with New Zealand are highlights for me, it's an amazing feeling being away representing your country and playing against other teams world wide: it's the most rewarding experience.  If I was to single one out, it would be my first senior women's game at World League, singing the national anthem before the game was a proud emotional moment. The moment was made even more memorable by scoring a goal on my debut.

 

When your alarm goes off at 5:30 in the morning, what gets you out of bed?

"I don't wanna lose, I can sleep tonight."

 

Tell us your favourite go-to pre-match pump up jam.

I listen to a lot of up beat songs to get me pumped up and in the zone pre game.

 

What are you looking to accomplish in water polo? Why do you play?

One day I want to represent New Zealand at the Olympics. This is my long term goal. Why do I play? I play water polo because simply because I love it! It's a complex sport that has many challenges but also much excitement and there such a rewarding feeling when you're winning and training hard. It's also cemented by the truly valuable friendships I have made.

 

What is the biggest barrier for you playing water polo?

A lack of sponsorship. It's also a struggle to balance school work.

 

What has New Zealand Water Polo given you personally?

Water polo has given me family and friends for life. It has allowed me to travel the world and make unforgettable memories and has helped me set out what I want to do in life.

 

What are your aspirations for Olympic Qualifiers in Gouda?

To learn and improve as a player in each game. Playing to compete and win for myself, family, friends, and my country.

 

Favourite quotes?

"Think training's hard? Try losing."

"Imagine with all of your mind, believe with all of your heart, achieve with all of your might. Talent wins games, teamwork makes champions. Giving up is simply not an option."