Liana Dance

 

 

    

YEAR OF BIRTH: 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: First

 

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 last year!

 

What has been your international water polo highlight?

Standing on a world stage in Madrid, Spain, for the first time.

 

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.

Cheerleader, Crazy by Beyoncé, Tramponline by Kalin, Sugar by Maroon 5.

 

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

I want to play polo in a variety of countries, then one day represent New Zealand at the Olympics. Then I will hopefully coach and pass on my experience.

 

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.

 

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."