Stories from Tri-City News headlines of decades past is a recurring feature as the publication marks its 40th anniversary in 2024.
Coming off an historic victory over the United States, Coquitlam water polo players Phil Beedle Jr. and Ryan Bazeley were optimistic about Canada’s chances at the 1995 junior world championships in Dunkirk, France.
Canada had never before defeated the Americans, whose players are taller, stronger and probably more skilled, said Bazeley.
“But we just kept fighting and won it.”
The victory earned Canada a place among the 24 teams competing in Dunkirk.
Grouped with world powerhouses Italy and Hungary, Beedle was realistic about Canada’s chances, saying 10th or 12th place would be good result.
Still, that didn’t diminish the local duo’s enthusiasm for competing on the world stage.
“This is a huge tournament for Canada,” said Bazeley, who would be joining the senior men’s team after the championships to compete in tournaments in Italy and Slovenia.
“We feel pride in representing Canada,” added Beedle.
The Tri-City News has covered civic affairs, local crime, festivals, events, personalities, sports and arts in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody since 1983. Bound back issues of the paper are available at the Coquitlam Archives, while digital versions of several past years can be found at issuu.com.
