Developing Future Stars in the 2025 WPNSW Development Academy
From May through September 2025, the Water Polo NSW Development Academy Program is bringing together young talent uniting more than 160 athletes across U13 and U15 boys' and girls' divisions. With a focus on high-energy training, elite coaching, and inclusive participation, this statewide initiative is setting a new benchmark in athlete development for NSW.
Alternating Saturday sessions at Ryde and Pymble have created a structured, consistent, and professional training environment. The program blends technical refinement, mental resilience, and a strong sense of community. For many young athletes, it's the first step on a long and exciting journey through the WPNSW pathways.
Where Fundamentals Meet the Future
The Academy's philosophy is built on three pillars: technical excellence, habit formation, and continuous exposure to high-quality coaching. Every session zeroes in on essential water polo fundamentals from movement and ball skills to tactical awareness.
With only 40 athletes selected per age group and division, participants benefit from focused, small-group instruction and personalised feedback. "Pathway programs like this are the grassroots of high-performance sport," says Performance Pathways Coordinator Lilli Harris. "It's where habits are formed, standards are set, and potential is nurtured."
Supporting these efforts are tools like video analysis, on-deck correction, and individual skill assessments. Athletes not only develop technically but gain a clearer understanding of their own progress and what it takes to move forward.
An Elite Coaching Lineup
Guiding the program are Head Coaches Dušan Krstić, Pat Northam, and Stefano Salvi—all bringing a wealth of experience from domestic and international competitions. They are joined by Assistant Coaches Steven Gotsoulias, Oliver Fodor, Milos Drobnjak (Miki), Jemma Semmens, Lorenzo Uda, James Akhurst, and Lindsay Cotterill.
Adding further depth is a group of Panel Coaches including Thomas Rathbone, Nathan Royle, Matthew Allen, Murray Stewart, Callum Hunter, Nathan Ellinthorpe, Joseph Penny, Lilli Harris, Coco Welsh, Jade Vincent, Kate Donaldson, and Andrea Hodges. These coaches represent a broad spectrum of expertise from the Australian Water Polo League, national age group teams, and Olympic campaigns.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have such a high calibre of coaches working within the program," says Lilli. "Our coaches bring experience from National Age Group Programs, Australian Water Polo League campaigns, and even Olympic appearances. Many are not only outstanding mentors but also incredible players in their own right."
The Academy also acts as a proving ground for emerging coaches, offering hands-on development and mentorship from seasoned leaders.
Regional Talent in the Spotlight
A defining feature of the 2025 program is its strong representation of regional athletes. Young players from outside metro Sydney have been embraced not just as participants, but as a vital part of the Academy's identity.
"It’s been exciting to see so many eager young athletes come together through this program," Lilli says. "One of the most rewarding aspects is the involvement of regional athletes. It’s not only important that a broader sense of community is fostered, but also that talent from across the state is recognised and supported."
By lowering barriers to access and encouraging participation from all corners of NSW, WPNSW ensures that no promising athlete is overlooked due to location. That vision of equity and statewide representation is already delivering benefits—on pool deck and beyond.
More Than Just a Game
The Academy isn’t just about skill development. It's about building strong character, reinforcing values like respect and teamwork, and helping athletes develop the confidence to lead.
Through values-based coaching, athletes learn to train with intention, hold themselves accountable, and support their peers. The expectation is not perfection, but progress showing up, setting goals, and giving every session their best effort.
These life lessons extend far beyond the water. They help athletes grow into responsible teammates, future leaders, and role models in their local clubs and communities.
The Next Generation Is Here
With more than 100 applications received for this year’s intake, competition was fierce. Each selected athlete stood out not just for their talent, but for their attitude, potential, and eagerness to improve.
The early signs are promising. Coaches are already seeing improvements in technical execution, decision-making, and cohesion across the squads. The program has sparked new friendships, sharpened ambitions, and laid a solid foundation for the rest of the season and beyond.
"We’re proud to be building a stronger future for Water Polo NSW athletes through these early opportunities," Lilli says. "This is where it all starts."
As the 2025 WPNSW Development Academy continues toward its September conclusion, one thing is clear: the future of water polo in NSW is not only bright it's already taking shape through dedication, expert coaching, and a unified drive to strengthen the sport across the state.
Get Involved
If you're passionate about developing the next generation of water polo athletes or want to learn more about our performance pathways, we’d love to hear from you. Stay updated with program news, future Academy intakes, and upcoming opportunities by visiting www.waterpolonsw.org.au or following WPNSW on social media.
