Theo's Tartan Test

Edge Hill lecturer Theo Bampouras is 'destined for down under? as he leads the Scottish Women?s water polo team into the Commonwealth Games.

While the high profile track and field events take place in Melbourne in March, 29-year-old Theo and the squad are already in Perth for their contest which begins on January 23rd.

"It is sure to be a great experience for the team ? none of whom have ever competed at such a level before," said Theo, who lives in Southport and has lectured coaching science at Edge Hill since 2002. "The other sides who we will be competing against ? such as Australia, Canada and England ? have had teams for many years however ours was only set up four years ago.

"That said, simply coming up against sides of such quality will do our players the world of good and will stand them in good stead for future tournaments."

Theo, who himself represented Greece as a swimmer and water polo player, secured the post as Scottish coach following a spell with the Great Britain youth side.

"On average, I travel north of the border for training once a month and I?ve also had the squad down to Edge Hill to use the Sports department?s physiology and biomechanics labs to test their body fat, fitness and flexibility.

"In an ideal world I'd like to have training sessions more often but it's difficult for the players as they all have full-time jobs which are vital to them being able to fund their way through events such as this.

"Once we return from Australia it is important that we draw up a strong five-year plan that will put us in a strong position for future tournaments such as the 2012 Olympic Games in London."