Athlete Spotlight: James Hurton

James is a grade 8 student at St. John Brebuf School. He played in the MWPA School League with École Viscount Alexander Team 2, who came in second in the finals, losing to EVA Team 1. He is also a member of Team Manitoba on top of his busy training schedule with Vortex Water Polo.

He hopes to play in the NCAA after high school, and dreams of representing Canada at the Olympics. James - if you can dream it, you can do it!

We thank him for representing our sport so well in an interview with the Winnipeg Free Press, published February 11, 2026.

When and how did you get into water polo?

I started playing water polo three years ago. I was at the pool watching my sister at her synchronized swimming practice when I noticed the water polo practice the other side of the pool. It looked really intense and fun. I decided to give it a shot, and from the very first practice I was hooked. I knew right away that water polo was the sport for me.

What is the best advice in water polo you have ever received?

The best advice I have ever received is to use my anger and frustration during tough games as motivation. Instead of getting upset when things aren’t going well, those emotions can be turned into energy and focus. That advice really helped me improve because water polo can be a very physical and challenging sport. 

What water polo skill was the hardest to learn?

The hardest thing for me wasn’t learning something new, it was unlearning a bad habit. I got used to shooting side-arm instead of keeping my elbow up and using proper form. Once a habit forms, it’s really hard to fix. It has taken a lot of practice, focus, and reminders from my coaches to correct it. I still work on it all the time, but improving my shooting form has made my shots stronger and more accurate.

What motivates you?

I am very motivated by my love of winning. I’ve always been competitive, and there’s nothing better than working hard and seeing it pay off. Winning feels amazing, especially when it’s the result of teamwork and dedication. I also love pushing myself to improve and knowing that my effort helps my team.

If you could choose one superpower, what would it be?

I would choose super strength. In water polo, being strong makes a huge difference. I would love to be able to throw the ball as hard as possible and be unstoppable in the water.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I would like to be either a doctor or a lawyer. Both careers are challenging and require a lot of hard work, which I like. No matter what career I choose, I will always stay involved in water polo in some way, whether that’s playing, coaching, or supporting a team.

What other sports or hobbies do you enjoy?

Besides water polo, I really enjoy baseball. It’s another sport that requires focus and teamwork. I also like playing video games in my free time because it helps me relax and have fun with friends. Most importantly, I enjoy spending time with my family, and I really appreciate that they support me in everything I do.

What is one thing you could not go a day without?

I could not go a day without my mom. She is always there for me, supports my goals, and encourages me to do my best. She comes to my games and helps me stay motivated. I’m really lucky to have her.

What is one thing that automatically makes your day better?

Water polo automatically makes my day better. Whether it’s practice or a game, being in the pool with my teammates always puts me in a good mood. It’s the best part of my day.

Anything else you would like to share?

Water polo has taught me a lot about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It has helped me grow not just as an athlete, but as a person. I’m excited to keep improving and seeing how far I can go in the sport.