The Australian women's water polo team, consisting of all AIS scholarship holders, has taken the bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics, beating Hungary in a penalty shoot-out.

The Stingers broke away to a 2-0 lead early, but Hungary responded with five straight goals and led 5-3 at half-time.

Australia equalised at 6-6 late in the third quarter and then again with eight seconds remaining in the match via Rebecca Rippon to force extra time.

The Stingers led twice in extra time, with Hungary making it 9-9 with just 20 seconds left to force the shoot-out, which Australia won 3-2.

AIS and Australian coach Greg McFadden said he was proud of his player's Olympic achievements.

‘This bronze medal is the culmination of years of hard work and I couldn’t be prouder of the girl’s achievement,’ McFadden said.
 ‘We had to overcome the disappointment of missing out on the chance to play for the gold medal but the girls are a tough group and they showed that against Hungary.

‘We are very thankful for the support we have received from the Australian Institute of Sport.’

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker also paid tribute to the Australian teams persistence and determination.

'This result is an outstanding success for Greg and the AIS women’s water polo program,' Professor Fricker said

'Their bronze medal is a real testament to the athletes personal commitment to their sport and their training program here at the AIS.

‘They showed in the bronze medal match against Hungary that ‘never say die’ attitude that is synonymous with Australian athletes and teams.’ 

The Australian Institute of Sport was established in 1981, and has consistently contributed to Australia’s outstanding sporting performance on the world stage.

The Australian Olympic team in Beijing consists of 433 athletes. Of these, there are 262 current or former AIS athletes. 

The Australian Sports Commission (ASC), on behalf of the Australian Government, invests in and supports our Olympians and Paralympians in many ways.

In addition to the $18.1 million the ASC provided to the AIS in 2007-08, the ASC also funded the athletes’ sports to the tune of $53.4 million in 2007-08.

Furthermore, the ASC provided direct funding totalling $4.3 million to more than 400 athletes in 2007-08 — vital support for athletes in their preparation for sporting success. This represents a total Australian government investment of $75.8 million in 2007-08 for our Olympians and Paralympians. The ASC is committed to providing all Australians with the best opportunity possible to participate in sport.

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