Amidst the fierce currents of the water polo arena, a testament to the indomitable spirit of women rises like a phoenix. Masters water polo, a realm often associated with aging athletes reminiscing their prime, finds a new crescendo in inclusivity, with the resounding call for more women to grace its exalted stage. As the World Aquatics Masters Water Polo Championships unfold in Kumamoto, a symphony of determination reverberates, led by none other than an Olympian herself.
Joelle Bekhazi’s Unyielding Echo: Joelle Bekhazi, a titan of the aquatic realm, played 16 years in the Canadian women’s water polo team, imprinting her legacy across almost 600 international matches. The shadows of seven world championships and the pinnacle of her journey, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, bear witness to her unparalleled prowess.
A Call for Inclusivity: Beyond the crescendo of her Olympic journey, Bekhazi’s voice resonates with a call that transcends eras. In the sea of senior men, she stands as a beacon, urging more women to embrace the arena. A clarion call for diversity, an anthem that women need not relinquish their competitive spirit after retirement.
The Unconquerable Spirit: “After retiring, you want to be able to still play at that high level. If you love the game as much as I do, you can,” Bekhazi’s voice resounds, carrying the weight of her passion. For her, water polo is not just a chapter of the past; it’s a continuum of excellence, a realm where her competitive edge continues to thrive.
A Battle Beyond Age: The transition from professional to masters holds no abatement of fierceness; it’s a journey driven by love and honor. “It’s a different mindset. It is for fun and at the same time everyone is here to win,” Bekhazi emphasizes. The waters of the arena may have calmed, but the fire of competition blazes unabated.
The Eternal Flame of the Olympian: “It’s that killer instinct. It’s always going to be there. You never made it to the Olympics by taking a back seat,” proclaims Bekhazi, her words infused with the wisdom of experience. Every stroke, every surge forward is an ode to her love for the game, a symphony that refuses to end.
The Unquenchable Love: As the waters of the Kumamoto competition lap against the shores of history, Joelle Bekhazi stands not only as a player but as a testament. Even after the senior team, even after the glow of Olympic glory, her love for the game remains undiminished.
A Trailblazing Legacy: In the heart of the aquatic battle, a legacy unfolds. Joelle Bekhazi’s journey symbolizes more than victories; it’s a blazing trail for women in water polo, a declaration that the arena knows no gender. As the currents of competition surge, her legacy stands as an eternal reminder that the game is not bound by age or gender; it’s bound by the relentless beating of passionate hearts.