Greek ‘Apollon Smyrnis’ Crowned Water Polo European Champions

The Greek water polo team Apollon Smyrnis has made history by winning the European water polo champions league (LEN Challenger Cup), a prestigious competition for up-and-coming teams in Europe. The Athens-based team defeated the Spanish team Terrassa 18-14 in the final game, which took place in Spain, to win their first European title.

Apollon Smyrnis are #LENChallengerCup Champions 🤽‍♂️

Apollon Smyrnis clinched the inaugural cup in Spain 👏 #waterpolo pic.twitter.com/gs0NREl1EM

— LEN – European Aquatics (@LENaquatics) April 29, 2023

Apollon Smyrnis

Apollon Smyrnis Gymnastics Society, which was initially founded in 1891 by Greeks of Smyrna in Asia Minor, and has a long tradition of success in Greek water polo, has been working hard to establish itself as a top team in Europe in recent years.

Since its comeback, the team has won the 3rd National League division championship in 2014 and been promoted to the 2nd National League division in 2015. Apollon Smyrnis demonstrated its dedication and courage by winning the 2nd National League division championship and ultimately advancing again to the 1st National League in 2017.

The team finished third in the Greek water polo league this season, behind powerhouses Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, but they were determined to make a name for themselves on the international stage.

European champions league Journey

First-ever #LENChallengerCup Champions 👏

Apollon Smyrnis are the first team ever to lift the LEN Challenger Cup trophy! 🏆#waterpolo pic.twitter.com/bYoJ4x1HVB

— LEN – European Aquatics (@LENaquatics) April 29, 2023

Their journey to the LEN Challenger Cup final was not an easy one. They had to navigate a tough group stage, where they faced powerful teams such as Turkey’s Galatasary and Spain’s Echeyde.

The team will now look to build on this success and continue to improve. They will be hoping to challenge Olympiacos and Panathinaikos for the Greek water polo title next season, and they will be aiming to qualify again for the LEN Challenger Cup, the top competition for European water polo clubs.

The victory of Apollon Smyrnis in the LEN Challenger Cup is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and skill of the players and the coaching staff. It is a moment to celebrate for Greek water polo fans and for anyone who loves to see underdogs succeed.

Water Polo

Water polo has a rich and storied history in Greece and it has become an integral part of the Greek sporting culture over the last few decades. Greek water polo teams and players have achieved numerous domestic and international titles, making the sport a popular and beloved pastime in the country.