SOME of the state's best water polo players have taken to Tamworth's Scully Pool to battle it out in the Combined High Schools boys water polo championships.
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Team's from across the state took to the water for the opening day of the three-day competition, all hoping to get their campaign off to a winning start.
North West began their campaign with a heavy loss at the hands of Sydney North.
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The team of local products proved to be no match for the competition favorites, eventually going down 16-1.
From there the North West boys managed to regroup and bounce back with a resounding 9-1 win over Sydney South West.
North West coach Chris Boyko said he was pleased with his side's ability to shake off the opening-game defeat.
"I think we were caught a little bit on the hop in the first game and Sydney North really made us pay," Boyko told the Leader.
"Our defence was a little bit poor at times but I think the guys really learned from that.
"In the second game our defence was far better and our communication really lifted as well.
"Hopefully they will all be a bit better for the experience."
Boyko said the experience of NSW representative Ned Hoath proved invaluable.
"Ned played really well across the board and stepped up when we needed him," he said.
"I'm confident he, like the others, will only improve as the competition rolls on."
North West will now turn their attention to day-two clashes against South Coast and Hunter.