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MANCHESTER SHARKS

Welcome to the UKs largest dedicated LGBTQ+ water polo club.
We are a friendly and inclusive club that welcomes players of all abilities.

Who Are We?

The North's largest and only LGBTQ+ water polo club.

Founded in 2007, the Manchester Sharks are the North of England’s first Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender water polo club.

Manchester Sharks compete in a local league, attend and compete in national and international gay tournaments and participate in some of the world’s largest sporting events.

Our Sessions.

Just Bring Yourself!

It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, we have a session for you.

Our training sessions focus on fitness, polo skills, technique, and above all fun. All training is fully coached.

Every Thursday

£7/ per session

Best for senior with junior and beginner players welcome and encouraged, Duel coached.

At East Manchester Leisure Centre

Between 8:30pm - 10pm

Your first training session is free, and we will introduce you to our members and show you around.

Every Sunday

£6/ per session

Perfect for beginners and juniors with our dedicated coach, senior players are also welcome.

At East Manchester Leisure Centre

Between 5:30pm - 7pm

Your first training session is free, and we will introduce you to our members and show you around.

Meet a few of our sharks

Our members are our biggest fans. Here's what they have to say about us.

Aaron

Aaron

Member for 2+ years, Committee Secretary

"In my first session, I must have taken 6 breaks on the side of the pool! But I've grown since then and absolutely love playing the sport."

Ant

Ant

Joined in Sept 2022, Committee member for Social Media

"I had never played water polo before my first session, but experience doesn't matter. I wanted to meet new people and have fun; the Sharks is definitely the place for that."

Bella

Bella

Joined the Sharks in 2021

"I love this community. Being a part of this club has made me feel so included and safe."

Chris

Chris

Member for 8+ years and former Commitee Chair

"Our team socials are one of the best things about being a Shark, that and our international tournaments."

David

David

Member for 2+ years

"Water polo can get labeled as 'swimming with violence,' but the Sharks are a lovely, friendly, welcoming bunch."

Freelib

Freelib

New Member

"I recently learned to swim and wanted to join a team, stay fit and make new friends. Everyone has been friendly and welcoming."

Gareth

Gareth

Founding Member, former Committee Secretary

"I started swimming with Northern Wave in 2002. After a few years of playing mini games, we decided that it would be better to operate polo as a separate club, so in 2007 that's what we did."

Mark

Mark

Member for 7+ years

"I've played water polo since I was 7, but I joined the Sharks for the social side and to meet new friends. After years as an outfielder, I'm now usually found in goal."

Nick

Nick

Member for 5+ years, League Team & former Players Rep

"I felt uncomfortable in previous clubs, but that was a non-issue with the Sharks. Everyone made me feel welcome and supported."

Rowan

Rowan

Member for 18+ months

"Being part of the Manchester Sharks is really fulfilling. Meeting new people and playing with the team is great for building confidence."