News – Water Polo Australia

There’s no question volunteers help make water polo happen. This National Volunteer Week, Water Polo Australia celebrates the incredible individuals who give so much of themselves to support our sport and community.

Fleur Fotheringham, who recently joined the Water Polo South Australia board last year as Appointed Director, began her journey volunteering her time almost five years ago when her son represented South Australia at junior representative level. 

As with many parents who devote their time behind the scenes to support their children in the pool, Fotheringham was just happy to help wherever possible.

“I think it’s really rewarding to be able to support and encourage your child in whatever sport they choose,” Fotheringham said.

“I’m an individual that likes to give my time, and I find it really rewarding and valuable.”

Fotheringham further emphasised the importance of volunteers amongst sporting organisations, noting the crucial role they play at all levels of sport. 

“It’s a really supportive environment. We’re not a big club, we’re not a big state, but the environment and the culture that we have is such a supportive one to all of our players,” said Fotheringham.

Fotheringham recounted the fundraising efforts amongst the local South Australian community to support their youth teams’ participation at the recent Australian Youth Water Polo Championships held in Perth last month.

“We had wine sales, sausage sizzles, chocolate drives, hot cross buns sales, in an attempt to get all of our teams here as youth teams.”

The Water Polo South Australia 16&U Boys Team Manager was grateful for the community spirit and unity shown in aid of their Youth Championships campaign, highlighting the importance volunteers play in nurturing the next generation of water polo stars.

“It’s about what we can do to get them here and to allow them to have the best time possible.”