Melissa Rippon

Details

Category: Water Polo

How did you become involved in waterpolo?

I pretty much did what every younger sister does and copied my older sister and brothers. They played so I joined in. Mind you I didnt want to play my first game and didnt play again for another year!

Who is your sporting hero?

Michael Jordan

Age you started in your sport?

13

Height, weight, age?

169cm, 70kg, and officially 'in my 30's now... 31

Accreditations/degrees/qualifications?

Certificate 3 - Group Fitness
Currently studying Health Science-Accupuncture
Water Polo Coach

What motivates you to continue in your sport?

I just love water polo to be honest.
I love working towards being my best and of course the goals of playing at my 3rd Olympics and winning an Olympic gold medal motivates me!

What motivated you to start your sport?

I really was just being a typical little sister and copied everything Bec did. Water polo was one of MANY things I copied

What is your current business/job?

I am a rep. for the swimwear company VICI as well as a water polo coach. I run clinics, as well as coach for my club and Moreton Bay College.

Who do you play for?

I play for the Brisbane Barracudas who are the reigning National League Champions for the past 3 years.
I also am part of the Aussie Stingers, the Australian Women's Water Polo Team.

People that have inspired you both in sport and life?

My Family are actually my biggest inspiration.
We had a lot of adversity growing up and the way we worked together and forged on with living a full life really created the values and work ethic that has helped me be successful.

Great experiences that have happened in your life?

I think playing water polo has allowed some fantastic experiences to occur. I have travelled the world, experienced a variety of cultures and cuisines. I was part of the closing ceremony at the Sydney Olympics and walking out in front of that crowd was an experience I will never forget.

Your interests and hobbies?

I love reading, I can bury myself in a good book from cover to cover.
I have also recently discovered that I enjoy gardening and have started to spend some quality time in the yard.
And like most girls I enjoy shopping but I must admit I do my best shopping when I am alone!

One tip or quote that continues to inspire you?

No regrets.

Family Background(where did you grow up) and Current Family

Grew up in Sydney, NSW and currently live in Brisbane, QLD
I have 2 older brothers, Adam and Justin who live in Sydney and an older sister Bec who also lives in Sydney.
My dad Steve, Step mother Leigh, Step sister Kate and Step brothers Drew and Scott all live in Brisbane.
Both Bec and Katie are in the Stingers squad also

Who did you idolize growing up?

Michael Jordan

Were you always one of the better athletes growing up?

I was always one of the bigger athletes so I think that helped me when I was younger. These days I am considered small!

What is one thing you would share with the children wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Have fun and work hard

Who has been your biggest supporter?

My family. The sacrifices they made for Bec and I to be able to achieve our goals and the constant support they give us is incredible.
They also don't mind making sure we don't get too caught up in our own lives!

Favourite Foods/Diet you follow?

Chocolate! I love chocolate.
Coming from a Lebanese family I love all food but I have to say Taitas (my Grandmother) cooking is my favourite.

What is the ultimate prize in your sport?

Like most sports its the Olympic Gold Medal

What is your favourite movie?

So many to choose from!
I am a sucker for anything with singing and dancing so Grease, Dirty Dancing, Hairspray...

What is your favourite music/band/song?

I have a variety of music tastes.
Powderfinger are a huge favourite but I have everything from Eminem to Pavorotti on my ipod.
In fact I have a playlist dedicated to songs from musicals

Do you believe "never giving up" is the difference between making it and not making it in any sport?

Yes

Have you ever failed at anything? If yes how did you overcome this?

Every single day.
By never giving up.

What did you want to be as a kid growing up?

At one stage I remember my brother said he wanted to be a pilot so I thought that it would be a cool idea if I was an air hostess on the planes he was flying...
I actually hate flying now

Your future goals in your sports, and goals when you finish your sport?

I am aiming to compete in my 3rd Olympics and win a Gold medal in London.
After that I would love to concentrate on my studies and continue coaching.
I also would love to have a dog!

What is one item you cannot live without?

moisturiser

People you would like to thank?

My family. ALL of you. Youre amazing.
All the girls who have been team mates, training partners and friends. Without everyone striving to succeed we wouldnt have achieved what we have so far.
My friends outside of water polo, they remind me that although it feels like it is my life, there is so much more out there.

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