Glen Robinson admits it is a relief to have some silverware to show for his efforts after helping England’s men claim gold at the Commonwealth Water Polo Championships in Aberdeen.
Robinson was a member of Team GB’s men’s water polo team at London 2012 and was back out on the international stage earlier this month in Scotland.
And it was a worthwhile trip north of the border as England defeated South Africa, New Zealand, Wales, Scotland, Singapore and Malta in the group stages before repeating the trick against the Maltese in the final, winning 16-9.
And while Robinson is adamant nothing can surpass competing at the Olympic Games two years ago, the 25-year-old insists gold at the Commonwealth Championships ranks almost as highly.
“Winning gold was amazing and I’m very proud to do so. Seven years of hard work and I’ve finally got something to show for it,” said Robinson, who watched on as England’s women also claimed gold with a 10-9 final victory over Canada.
“The fact I came back with gold is like closure, it’s a relief after wanting something so badly for so long. As an athlete nothing comes higher than the Olympic Games and London 2012 was the pinnacle achievement.
“But to come away from the Commonwealths with a medal and not just any medal, the gold, is fantastic. I have a really good sense of achievement and something to show for all the sacrifices over the years.
“I feel I’m playing the best polo I’ve ever played and as a team we got stronger and stronger. In the final everything just came off and you can’t ask for more.”
© Sportsbeat 2014