VALE - DAVID WHITTAKER

The entire water polo community is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Water Polo Victoria CEO David Whittaker.

David was a long time contributor to the sport, having served as Secretary of Sydney University Water Polo Men’s Club, CEO of Water Polo NSW and more recently Water Polo Victoria.

He was instrumental in building the junior program at Sydney University, and assumed administrative duties of the Club.

Sydney University Water Polo Club President Antony Green said their community is saddened by the loss of David.

“David and the Whittaker family represent the heart of Sydney Uni Water Polo Club - David was a contributor and giver,” Green said.

“David’s work at the club was focused on creating an environment for many men to flourish and have such great experiences playing water polo.

“David will be sadly missed by the Lions family and leaves a legacy much wider than just our Club,” he said.

David served as the WPNSW CEO for several years, helping the organisation to regain a positive footing from both a program perspective, and financially.

During his time, David took a strong lead in ensuring the overhaul of strategic thinking with the WPNSW Board, and helping the organisation to a position that they could ensure future growth.

More than just a figure in the office, David was a regular fixture at weekend games and tournaments, and relished the opportunity to referee.

Former Water Polo NSW President Nick Hodgers said that David’s time was full of impact, and the community will mourn his loss to the sport, and every individual who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“David had many impacts during his time as CEO at Water Polo NSW,” Hodgers said.

“Programs still seen around today, such as the State Team Programs, were brought to life under David’s guidance.

“David also had a profound impact in regional support programs, once again the foundation of many of the offerings can be traced back to David.

“He was a tireless worker and contributor, changing the direction of WPNSW and its culture during his time,” he said.

The Water Polo Victoria community will mourn the loss of David as will most around the nation.

He came to Water Polo Victoria when it was in need of a passionate, hard working and friendly CEO to rebuild the sport in this state. His enthusiasm for water polo was infectious and he had a positive impact on all the community. He worked tirelessly for our members and was always willing to be on deck in whatever capacity necessary.

Victoria has been the hardest hit state during the COVID pandemic and the sport of water polo has suffered enormously. David was always thinking outside the box with not only government funding for our state but also the abiility to get our athletes back in the pool as soon as possible.  David never gave up on getting the sport rebooted, despite lockdown after lockdown.  It is incredibly sad that David will not see the spoils of his hard work, with competition finally set to resume next week.

Water Polo Victoria is in shock and he leaves a large void within our community.

“I was shocked and saddened by the news of David’s passing. He was always available, smiling and progressive within our sport. I will miss him personally as I am sure our board will.” Michael McNeill President of Water Polo Victoria. 

Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the water polo community around the country at this time.

During today's Australian Waterpolo League fixtures, teams will observe a minute silence in memory of David.