Kaitlyn Adams, an 18-year-old from Christchurch, has made a name for herself in canoe polo since starting the sport four years ago at Middleton Grange School where she captained the Senior Girls team to place 4th at the schools nationals in 2021. Her leadership skills were recognised when she captained the NZ U18B team and was part of the U21A team that secured gold at the Oceania Champs in 2023. Currently, she is preparing to represent NZ at the Canoe Polo World Champs in China as a Junior Paddle Fern. Being the sole South Island player in the U21 squad, Kaitlyn trains predominantly alone, showing the immense dedication she has to her sport. This grant will support her travel to essential training camps in the North Island. Kaitlyn aims to start a degree in criminal justice at Canterbury Uni, continue excelling in canoe polo, and aim for selection in the 2026 World Champs in Germany. Her long-term aspirations include joining the Senior Women’s NZ team and pursuing a career in law enforcement.