From May 19–23, 2025, Water Polo NSW (WPNSW) hosted an innovative coaching development initiative, bringing together the NSW Talent Men's Squad and the Singapore National Team. This collaboration showcased how international partnerships can elevate coaching expertise and foster growth within the sport.

Elite Leadership and Program Structure

The program brought together an exceptional team of elite coaches, with renowned experts Dragan Bakic, Dusan Krstic, Tim Hamill, and Andrew Yanitsas. Aidan Roach enhanced the practical aspects as a demonstrator, bringing the concepts to life for participants.

Training sessions followed a carefully structured progression throughout the week. Beginning with fundamental water polo movement, then advancing through technical and skill work, and while maintaining a consistent focus on gameplay and XMA/XMD strategies throughout the week. This methodical approach ensured comprehensive skill development and tactical understanding.

Coach Development and Learning Environment

Seven dedicated coaches from various NSW clubs participated in this unique learning opportunity:

Nathan Royle (Central Newcastle Water Polo), James Akhurst (Sydney Northern Beaches Water Polo Club), Callum Hunter (Cronulla-Sutherland Water Polo Club), Matthew Allen (Central Coast Water Polo), Joe Penney (Sydney Northern Beaches Water Polo Club), Peter Rolfe (UNSW Wests Water Polo Club), and Nixon Wong (Sydney University Water Polo Club).

Nathan Royle shared his experience: "Participating in the coach development program provided an exceptional opportunity to work closely with the Australian Under-20 squad and the Australian Sharks team. The insights gained from the coaching staff, particularly Sharks head coach Tim Hamil and Australian under-20s coaches Dragan and Dušan, were fantastic and accessible, allowing me to be involved in every aspect of their coaching. It helped me understand effective coaching communication, techniques and strategies. Their passion for the sport, commitment to their players, and open communication and involvement in every part of the training sessions to upskill me was a great opportunity I can now pass on to players and coaches in NSW".

Demonstrator Aidan Roach added: "The Coach development is a great way for junior coaches to learn new techniques and implement them into their training sessions. In Australia, especially in juniors, we focus more on swimming up and down than on how to move in all directions through the water. This program is a great way for coaches to learn and teach their athletes, as it is one of the most essential skills in water polo."

The program’s strength came from its interactive approach, where NSW coaches could observe and engage with experienced professionals in real-time settings. This hands-on learning environment allowed for immediate application of concepts and direct feedback from elite coaches.

To Empowering Coaches Through Elite Collaboration and Practical Learning

This Water Polo NSW initiative has created lasting value for water polo coaching development in NSW, delivering both immediate benefits and long-term potential for growth.

Performance Pathways Manager and Lead Coordinator Vedran Cirkovic noted: "The recent coaching initiative alongside the NSW Talent Men's Squad and the Singapore National Team was a fantastic success, offering our local coaches an elite development experience. Through structured sessions focusing on gameplay, technical execution, and advanced defensive strategies, coaches gained valuable insights and practical tools to elevate their programs. With strong participation, efficient delivery, and positive feedback, this model proves that collaborative, hands-on learning environments are one of the keys to growing coaching experience in NSW".

Future Development

Thanks to all the coaches, athletes, and staff who took part in making this a positive experience for everyone involved. Programs like this are part of our ongoing effort to grow and support water polo across all levels in NSW.