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Water polo needs more than players

Coaches, referees, and table officials are the backbone of every competition. If you love the sport, there’s a role for you – and we’ll help you get qualified.

Help shape the sport

Whether you’re a former player, a parent who wants to give back, or someone new to water polo entirely – non-player roles are a meaningful, flexible way to stay connected to the sport.

Every role carries a nationally recognised accreditation, a clear development pathway, and a community of people who share your passion.

1200+ coaches nationwide
600+ active referees
Free foundation courses via the Water Polo Learning Centre

Three ways to contribute

Each role has its own pathway, training resources, and community. Click through to find out more and get started.

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National Pathway

Become a Coach

From junior club coach to elite development pathways — coaching water polo is one of the most rewarding things you can do in the sport.

 

  • Foundation through to High Performance
  • Online and practical components
  • Paid and volunteer opportunities at all levels
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Nationally Accredited

Become a Referee

Referees are in high demand at every level of the game. Courses run regularly across all states and most are free to get started.

 

  • Level 1 to International graded pathways
  • Courses run by state associations
  • Reimbursement available at competition level
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Great Entry Point

Become a Table Official

Table officials manage the scoring, and timing of every match. A great way to get involved – especially for parents of junior players.

 

  • No prior water polo experience required
  • Short induction course – often online
  • Essential to running every competition

From first course to the elite coaching

Our continuous learning model based on eight coaching personas gives you a clear, structured path from your first club coaching role to the highest levels of the sport – with support at every step.

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Become a member

Become a Water Polo Australia Member through the Member Pool. To become a Coach, you’ll need to become a Gold Member.
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Log in to Learning Centre

Log in to the Water Polo Learning Centre and start your learning journey.
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Complete accreditation

Accreditation courses are made up of core components (e.g. Working with children checks), online modules via WPA’s Learning Centre and practical tasks facilitated by your State Association. Once completion of the Core Rquirements have been submitted to your respective State Association, there are a range of learning options, as outlined in the Learning and Development Framework below.

Table officials are the backbone of our sport

From beginner programs to high performance, officials are vital to the sport at all levels.

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Contact your club

This allows you to sign up to a free membership to complete the Table Officials Course on the Water Polo Learning Centre.

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Log in to Learning Centre

Begin your training to become a Table Official via the Table Officials Course: Visit the Water Polo Learning Centre with your Login Details, and see how you can help with table duties such as scoring and clock management at any level.

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If required in your state

Submit your Working with Children and Vulnerable People number to your respective State Association.

Not sure which role is right for you?

Explore all three roles or contact your state association – they’ll point you in the right direction.