NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK CELEBRATING WITH GRAHAM ‘DOC’ WULF

When it comes to sport, names are etched into the history books but alongside those names are the statistics and results that got them there. 

When it comes to Water Polo in Australia, there is no one who knows the statistics better than UNSW’s Graham ‘Doc’ Wulf. 

After decades of keeping score, there is not much Doc doesn’t know when it comes to Water Polo in Australia. 

Recently he was recognised at the Water Polo Australia Awards Night with The Harry Quittner Medal for Meritorious Service to Water Polo Australia.

Throughout the decades of service, Doc said there is a lot he has personally got out of volunteering. 

“Over the years, I liked the development of seeing young players, and saying “he’s going to be good” and he goes on to be just as good as predicted. 

“I’ve also gone to a few international events in Australia and that’s nice too,” he said. 

Volunteering isn't one size fits all with different roles appealing to different people.  Doc admits that’s what he likes about volunteering the most, that for his personality he has found a role that best suits him while still staying connected to the sport he loves. 

“I’m actually the kind of person who likes helping people but doesn’t like dealing with people. I’m a bit more philosophical as I get older, I tend to like working by myself, even if we’re in a group I work by myself. So volunteering in water polo works very fine,” he said. 

He’s held many roles over the years, including the very spot where the stats come in, Table Officials. Doc said it’s a role more people should get involved in because it’s the best seat in the house. 

“It’s great, only the referee gets in front of you!,” he said. 

Doc said to those thinking of getting involved in volunteering his question to those people is… 

“Why not get involved? That’s the thing, you get around with lots of people, you see lots of things, you have fun… enjoy it!”