The fifth edition of the FINA Women’s Water Polo World League starts on May 20 when the first preliminary round matches are held in Tian Jin, China between Group Asia-Oceania, which consists of Australia (2007 silver medallists), Japan, and China. Games will continue for the Asia-Oceania group until May 25.

Meanwhile, from May 23-25, preliminary action begins in Siracusa (ITA) for Group Europe of the 2008 World League, composed of Greece, Russia, Spain and Italy. Group Europe will meet again the following weekend in Athens, Greece (May 30-June 1) for a second preliminary round. At both tournaments, two games will be held per day.
The two top teams from each group (Asia-Oceania and Europe) will play-off against each other in the Super Final round, to be held in Santa Cruz del Tenerife (ESP) from June 10-15, as well as against teams Canada and defending League champions USA (from Group Americas). The host National Federation organising the Super Final (ESP) will automatically qualify.

The participating national teams of this year’s FINA Women’s Water Polo World Leagues obtain not only glory and recognition ahead of the Beijing Olympic Games, but lucrative prize money that amounts to US$205’000.

Since the first Edition in 2004, this League has been a great success in advancing the sport of Water Polo by capturing more audiences, media and television coverage, and drawing the attention of more FINA National Member Federations, clubs, players and referees. By exposing the power and skill this sport requires and once again uniting the world’s top teams, the 2008 edition will continue to enhance Water Polo’s image world wide.