Remembering Judy Woods - A Life Devoted to Water Polo and Family

The New South Wales water polo community has lost another beloved figure with the passing of Judy Woods. Known for her unwavering dedication to her family and her steadfast support of water polo, Judy was a key figure in her family and in the water polo community. Her dedication and support will be missed by everyone who knew her.

A Love Story Rooted in Sport

Judy Woods (née Kerrison) grew up in Concord, a familiar name around the area and in the water polo community. Judy's connection to the sport deepened when she met her future husband, Dave Woods, himself a dual Olympian and an icon of Australian water polo. Their wedding, held in the Olympic Village, was a testament to their shared love of the sport and each other. The image of Dave proudly holding his new bride outside the church became symbolic of their enduring partnership—both in life and within the water polo community.

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Judy stood by Dave throughout his remarkable career, which included playing for Balmain, representing New South Wales, and captaining the Australian team at two Olympic Games. While Dave made headlines for his achievements in the pool, Judy was the quiet yet powerful presence that supported not only him but also the entire Balmain Water Polo Club and their family.

The Backbone of an Iconic Water Polo Family

Judy Woods was more than just Dave's partner; she was central to their family, which has contributed significantly to the sport in Australia. As Dave's career transitioned into coaching, Judy was always there, supporting him through every championship, training session, and community event. Dave's coaching career saw him guide both men’s and women’s teams, and Judy supported Dave in his coaching career, including his work with the Australian Men's and Women's teams, and members of the gold medal-winning 2000 Women’s Olympic team.

The Woods family name has long been synonymous with Balmain Water Polo Club, and Judy's presence was felt throughout the club. She was there for her children—Taryn, Gavin, and Cara—who followed in their father’s footsteps and became involved in the sport. Cara currently serves as the Treasurer for Balmain Water Polo Club, continuing the family’s deep involvement in the sport. Judy's support extended to their extended family and fellow players, who looked up to her as a beacon of support and kindness. Judy ensured the family’s connection to water polo remained strong, and her quiet strength allowed others to thrive.

Her children also made significant contributions to the sport. Taryn Woods, an Australian former water polo player, was part of the gold medal-winning squad at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, earning her an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her achievement. Gavin Woods represented Australia in four consecutive Olympic Games (2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012), initially playing as a centre-back before switching to centre-forward for the 2004 Olympics. Their careers reflect the strong foundation of support that Judy provided.

A Legacy of Love and Dedication

Those who knew Judy describe her as a kind and generous person who was deeply committed to her family and the sport. Ann-Marie, club secretary of UTS Balmain Water Polo Club, recalled Judy as “the backbone of the family who has given and continues to give so much to water polo.” Judy’s warmth, kindness, and enduring love for her family and the water polo community were felt by everyone she met. Her dedication extended beyond her own family, influencing players, coaches, and community members across generations.

Judy spent her final days in her old family home in Concord, surrounded by the memories and community that had shaped her life. Her presence will be missed by her children—Taryn, Gavin, and Cara—and their families, as well as by the broader Balmain and NSW water polo communities that benefited from her support.

Celebrating Judy’s Life

The funeral for Judy Woods will be held at Macquarie Park Cemetery, North Ryde, on Friday, 22nd November, at 1:15pm. Friends, family, and the wider water polo community are invited to gather at the Palm Chapel to celebrate Judy’s life and her contributions to the sport.

Vale Judy Woods. Your love, dedication, and quiet strength will not be forgotten. The water polo community will remember your impact, and your spirit will live on through the lives you touched.