Late Bloomer to Water Polo Leader - An Interview with Chris Shaw
An Interview with Chris Shaw
Chris Shaw didn’t grow up playing water polo; instead, it became a part of his life later on, and it quickly became a passion. For Chris, it all began when his son wanted to play, and what started as a supportive parent sitting by the pool soon evolved into something much deeper. His involvement took him from the sidelines to the pool itself, and eventually to the boardroom of Water Polo New South Wales (WPNSW). His story is one of dedication, community involvement, and a love for a sport that brings people of all ages together.
From Rugby to Water Polo
Chris's athletic background originally lay in rugby. "I always wanted to play water polo but never had the opportunity growing up," he reflects. Rugby was the sport that dominated his youth and early adulthood—he played and coached it extensively. It wasn't until around 14 years ago, while encouraging his son to get into water polo, that Chris finally had his chance. He recalls making calls to local clubs and eventually bringing his son to the Manly Andrew “Boy” Charlton pool. Watching from the sidelines while his son trained, Chris was soon invited into the water by the men’s team practising at the same venue. Before long, he was not just watching his son—he was playing alongside others in sixth-grade competitions and eventually joined Sydney University’s team.
Family Involvement and Playing the Game
Water polo quickly became a family affair. Both Chris's son and daughter went on to represent Australia at junior levels, and continue to play for Drummoyne. Chris's own experience as a player was different from his children's, but equally challenging and rewarding. "The first game I played, I remember being two minutes in and thinking, 'I’m dying here.'" Water polo’s intense physicality required years for him to adjust, yet his love for the sport only grew. "It took me probably two years before I could play a full game without needing to sub out," he admits, highlighting the endurance required to keep up with such a demanding game.
From Player to Advocate
Chris's legal expertise soon came into play, and he was tapped to sit on WPNSW’s tribunal, dealing with disciplinary matters within the sport. This role eventually led him to join the WPNSW board, where he spent around eight years helping shape water polo across New South Wales. Reflecting on his time, Chris acknowledges the complexity of the issues faced, from facility shortages to community engagement challenges. "The main challenge is making sure that it’s an enjoyable game for everyone who wants to play," he says.
Improving Facilities for the Sport
One of the biggest hurdles for water polo in New South Wales has been the shortage of suitable facilities. Many pools in schools and communities are simply not designed with water polo in mind, lacking the necessary depth or size. Chris recalls playing at the newly opened Parramatta pool, only to find it wasn’t fit for a proper water polo match. "It’s a significant investment, yet it’s not designed to properly accommodate water polo," he says.
Despite these setbacks, Chris remains positive. He believes in working with local councils and community organisations to make sure future facilities can support a wider variety of sports. "If we think ahead when designing these spaces, they can serve multiple purposes, including water polo," Chris says. He’s hopeful that with more foresight, facilities can better meet the needs of all players—from beginners to experienced athletes.
From 14 to 84 and Beyond - Keeping Players Engaged for Life
Water polo often loses players once they leave school, and Chris believes more should be done to ensure the sport remains accessible for everyone, no matter their age or skill level. He speaks passionately about creating opportunities for lifelong participation. "It’s fantastic to see people like John Kirkwood and John Pagden still playing in their 80s," Chris says. "Water polo can be enjoyed at any age, whether you’re 14 or 84."
To keep players engaged, Chris champions initiatives that welcome adults back to the sport. Social competitions and masters-level tournaments help ensure that players don’t drop out after school but continue to find enjoyment and camaraderie. "We need more programmes that encourage adults to stay involved, whether competitively or just for fun," Chris says. He is optimistic that with the right focus, water polo can be a sport for life.
Water Polo Golf - A Fun Twist on the Game
One of the more novel ideas Chris has helped introduce is a game they call "water polo golf." Played in open waters, water polo golf combines the skills of swimming, throwing, and accuracy in a fun and informal setting. Chris explains, "We set up in bays full of boats or use buoys as targets. The idea is to nominate how many throws it will take to hit a target, like a buoy or an anchor line, and then try to achieve it. It’s like golf, but in the water with a water polo ball."
The game isn’t just about fun—it’s a great way to improve fitness and water polo skills. "You have to judge the wind, the current, and swim quickly to the ball. It really helps with throwing accuracy and endurance," Chris adds. The casual, inclusive nature of water polo golf has made it a hit among both experienced players and newcomers. "It’s a fantastic way to bring people together, enjoy the water, and work on your skills without the pressure of a formal match."
Building a Culture of Respect
Chris also highlights the importance of building a respectful environment in water polo. Passion for the sport sometimes leads to heated moments, but it’s essential that everyone—players, coaches, and spectators—respects officials and each other. "No one's ever played a perfect game, and no referee has ever refereed perfectly," Chris says. "We need to support our referees, especially the younger ones who are still learning. Without them, we don’t have a game."
To foster this culture of respect, Chris and his colleagues have developed guidelines and education programmes aimed at promoting sportsmanship. He believes that showing respect at all levels—on the pool deck, in the stands, and in coaching—will help make water polo more enjoyable for everyone. "We’re working hard to make sure water polo is a positive experience for all involved," Chris adds.
The Future of Water Polo in NSW
Despite the challenges, Chris is optimistic about the future of water polo in New South Wales. He points to community initiatives like "Girls Making Waves," led by Suzanne Ramke, which are helping introduce more young people, especially girls, to the sport. He also sees opportunities in Australia’s natural environment. "We have so many beautiful bays and beaches where we could set up water polo nets and get more people playing casually," Chris says. He believes that if local authorities are more open to these ideas, the sport can reach new audiences.
One of the highlights of water polo for Chris was watching the Australian women's team, the Aussie Stingers, win the silver medal at the Olympics this year. He speaks highly of Bec Rippon, the head coach, and the dedication of the players. "Seeing the team succeed on the world stage was incredible. It really shows what our sport is capable of and is such an inspiration for young players," Chris says.
Chris also recalls spontaneous games at Balmoral where passersby joined in, only for the activity to be halted by officials. He suggests that local authorities could be more accommodating to allow spontaneous games in bay areas like Balmoral, as this would help encourage more community engagement. He hopes that with persistence, more informal games will be allowed and encouraged. "If we can show people how much fun water polo can be—whether they’re serious players or just want to splash around—we can grow the sport and make it more accessible," he says.
A Team Sport for All Ages
For anyone considering taking up water polo, Chris’s message is clear: it’s never too late to start. "Water polo is a team sport, and you have to rely on your teammates," he explains. "That’s what makes it special. You’re not just playing for yourself; you’re playing for everyone else." This sense of responsibility to his team is what keeps Chris motivated to show up to practice, even on days when it’s tough.
He encourages anyone, regardless of their experience or fitness level, to give it a go. "Being part of a team means that you’re accountable, and that’s what gets you in the water even when you’re feeling tired. It’s rewarding, and it’s a lot of fun," Chris says.
Looking Ahead
Although stepping down from his board role, Chris's commitment to water polo remains strong. He will continue chairing the national tribunal and supporting local competitions like the Canberra Cup. Whether it’s through informal games at Little Manly Beach or encouraging new players, Chris’s influence on water polo in New South Wales is clear. "Water polo has given me so much, and I want to ensure others have the same opportunities," he says.
Chris envisions a sport that’s more inclusive, accessible, and recognised within local communities. "There’s so much potential, and I’m excited to see where we can take it next," he says. His positive outlook and dedication to making water polo accessible to everyone make Chris Shaw an inspiring advocate for the sport, whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about trying something new.
