Water Polo Coaching Conference 2025 – Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre, Belfast
On Saturday, January 11th, the 2025 Ulster Water Polo Coaching Conference made waves as a groundbreaking event for the water polo community in Northern Ireland and beyond. Hosted at the Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre, the conference welcomed 24 committed coaches representing clubs from across the region, including Clonard, Cathal Brugha, Diamonds, Bangor Barracudas, Newry, Portadown, Cu Chulainn, and Drogheda.
The event was spearheaded by none other than Ireland National Head Coach Goran Sablic, whose unparalleled expertise and passion for the sport set the tone for a day of learning, collaboration, and innovation. With a mix of theoretical presentations and practical sessions, Coach Sablic provided attendees with cutting-edge insights into modern coaching techniques, player development strategies, and game analysis.
Throughout the conference, Coach Sablic shared his extensive knowledge, focusing on a range of topics critical to the development of the sport, including:
• Enhancing tactical awareness for players at all levels.
• Building resilience and adaptability in athletes.
• Effective communication techniques for coaching teams.
The practical sessions, supported by the talented athletes of the Ulster Junior Water Polo Squad, allowed coaches to see these concepts in action. This hands-on approach not only clarified key coaching strategies but also emphasised the importance of player-coach relationship.
The atmosphere throughout the event was electric, with coaches eagerly engaging in discussions, asking questions, and sharing their own experiences. One attendee described the event as “a game-changer for water polo coaching in Ulster,” while another noted, “Coach Sablic’s approach is both inspiring and practical—exactly what we need to elevate our athletes to the next level.”
The day concluded with a heartfelt standing ovation for Coach Sablic, a gesture that underscored the profound impact of his contribution to the sport in the region.
The success of the conference was the result of a collaborative effort, and special thanks were extended to the Ulster Junior Water Polo Squad athletes, whose participation added invaluable depth to the event. Gratitude was also expressed to Swim Ireland Education for their support in planning and delivering the conference, as well as the friendly and accommodating staff at Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre, whose assistance ensured the smooth running of the day.
This year’s conference not only strengthened the skills of current coaches but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among the clubs represented. Events like this are critical in building a strong foundation for the future of water polo in Ulster, ensuring the region remains a leader in the sport at both national and international levels.
As one coach summarised, “The conference wasn’t just a learning experience; it was a celebration of our shared commitment to the growth of water polo. After the successes of today, I think it would be worthwhile for the club coaches to have more of these conferences and sessions throughout the year.”
Congratulations to all who participated in and supported this exceptional event. With such a strong foundation and shared passion, the future of water polo in Ulster is undoubtedly bright. Many thanks to Goran Sablic for his time, the staff at Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre for accommodating the conference, and to Sport NI and DSNI for their continual support.