FUNCHAL, PORTUGAL-- Long Island University women's water polo freshman Katie Hinrichs represented her native country of South Africa at the 2019 FINA World Women's Junior Water Polo Championships September 9-15 in Funchal, Portugal.

"I love playing in tournaments like this, I learn so much that I can bring back home to my country and now my new team" said Hinirchs.  "Competing against some of the best in the world is a privilege and I wouldn't trade my experiences for anything. The Junior World Championships is amazing as the level of water polo played is at the top standard."

Hinrichs recorded three goals and a pair of steals in six matches as her team placed 12th at the Junior World Championships. She has also represented her country at the international level with the South African U18 team at the 2018 Junior Ladies FINA World Championships. In 2017, she helped her country to a silver medal at the EU Nations Cup.

The Johannesburg, South Africa native brings a strong pedigree to LIU's inaugural women's water polo class, earning four gold medals at the Provincial Schools level.