Water Polo NSW launched its Regional Service Plans for 2025-26, on Saturday (11/10) to better connect and support our regional Clubs and Associations. 

The Regional Service Plans are the culmination of months of work, including a road show across eleven regions of NSW led by Water Polo NSW Staff, and supported by the Board.  

Based on feedback from listening to our regional members, the Regional Service Plans outline how we will evolve and tailor our support for clubs and associations across the state. CEO Lucy Warhurst said, “Each region has unique needs, and we must work together to address their priorities and grow the sport statewide — with a focus on training and education in coaching, refereeing, governance, communications, and integrity.” 

Our work to deliver the Regional Service Plans aligns with our co-designed Strategic Plan 2025-2030 - Connect - Activate - Thrive. 

The launch of the firstRegional Service Plan activities was for Newcastle and the Central Coast members and includedCoaching Clinicsat Lambton Pool in Newcastle on Saturday (11/10). These wereled by Head Coach of the Ord Minnett Aussie Sharks men's water polo team, Tim Hamill andWorld Championships Assistant Coach Dean Semmens,assisted bySharks players Matthew Wilsonand Laurence Barker.

On Sunday (12/10) a Referee’s Clinic was held at Wyong Poolonthe Central Coast led by highly experienced and qualified referees Stef Jelic and Mike Westdorp. The referee's activities included both theory and practical sessions.

Similar clinics will be held across the state in the coming months, with a visit to Narrabri, Tamworth, Coffs Harbour and Far North Coast Water Polo members this weekend. 

Board Member Laura Redgrove said: “Within Water Polo NSW our regional members make up 50% of our total members so the implementation of the Regional Service Plans is a way to build our relationship with these areas. 

The Plans set out how weare hoping to foster our relationship and build the knowledge of officials, referees and coaches in the community, to help to continue to grow the sport.”