Water Polo NSW, in partnership with the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS) and with endorsement from Water Polo Australia (WPA), is proud to announce the NSW Women’s Futures Development Squad. 

The NSW Women’s Futures Development Squad, aligned to the WPA High Performance Strategy, WPNSW Strategic Plan and WPA Strategic Plan, is a key initiative within the NSW female water polo pathway, designed to accelerate the growth of emerging female athletes and strengthen the state’s high-performance pathway. 

The program provides a structured, nationally aligned development environment that mirrors best-practice talent frameworks and supports long-term athlete progression. It targets the technical, tactical, physical, and behavioral foundations essential for future advancement into NSWIS programs and ultimately, national team selection. 

Since its commencement, athletes have engaged in a combination of intensive in-pool skill development sessions and integrated Strength and Conditioning training delivered at Australian College of Physical Education. These sessions ensure athletes build the physical preparedness and game-specific capabilities required to thrive within elite training environments. 

Athletes in the Futures Development Squad benefit from: 

Beyond athletic skill development, the program places strong emphasis on accountability, communication and professionalism, helping to prepare athletes for the expectations of elite programs while supporting holistic athlete growth. 

NSW Women’s Futures Development Squad Athletes 

NSW Women’s Futures Development Squad Head Coach  

Kate Pipkin 

Water Polo NSW Pathways Manager, Vedran Cirkovic, said: “The Futures Development Squad is an investment in the next generation. By aligning our pathway with national standards and providing high-quality development opportunities, we are committing to nurturing future talent within NSW and ensuring our young athletes have every chance to succeed at the highest level.” 

Head Coach, Kate Pipkin, said: “Working with the Futures athletes has been a fantastic experience so far.  

“They’ve showed reliable commitment, professionalism, high levels of potential, and an eagerness to learn and be challenged.   

“We are in a unique position where this is the first year of the program and can build from the ground up.  If we do it right, I believe we can become a high-level daily training environment that effectively supports and develops our Australian pathway athletes here in NSW." 

The NSW Women’s Futures Development Squad continues to strengthen the pathway for female athletes across the state, fostering a clear, supported progression toward state and national representation.