National gold at the double

Redcliffe water polo stars Amelie Hoefel and Tian Markart have won gold medals - and places in next year's national training program.

Markart and Hoefel were in their respective Under 17 Queensland teams which went through the national titles, on the Gold Coast, undefeated.

The 16 year olds were then named in the Water Polo Australia 18 and Under National Age Group Program (NAGP) for 2025.

The NAGP prepares athletes for Australian representative opportunities, "identifying, supporting and developing athletes in preparation for international age group events and future selection in senior teams".

Hoefel, a Redcliffe State High School student, adds those accolades to the bronze medal she received at the World Championships.

In the National Championships at Southport Aquatic Centre, the utility player, helped Queensland beat South Australia 27-3, Tasmania 37-3, New Zealand 17-3, NSW 15-5, ACT 22-7, Victoria 20-6 and West Australia 16-3.

The semi-final saw Queensland romp to a 27-2 victory over Victoria and NSW were despatched 12-5 in the final.

Kippa-Ring resident Markart starred in goal as Queensland Under 17s beat South Australia 28-11, New Zealand 28-10, Tasmania 27-2, ACT 13-9, Victoria 24-11 and West Australia 22-4.

Queensland beat New Zealand 15-6 in the semi-final at Miami Aquatic Centre, before winning 14-13 in a thrilling final against NSW.

Markart, a student at Mueller College, helped Australia finish 10^th at the Under 17 World Championships in Argentina.