Addressing the challenges and future of South African Water Polo

3 March 2025

The letter dated 03 March 2025 from NMBSWP Chairman Siegfried Lokotsch criticizes the late announcement of the National Tournament, which has imposed heavy financial and logistical burdens on self-funded players. He urges recognition of the Gauteng Invitational Tournament as an official selection event, six-month advance scheduling, financial support for players, and regional representation in planning. He warns against punitive measures by SSA and calls for inclusive, transparent leadership to protect the sport’s future.

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ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES AND FUTURE OF SOUTH AFRICAN WATER POLO

Dear Members of the South African Water Polo Community,

Many of our premier league players and coaches across the country have raised concerns regarding the last-minute scheduling of the National Tournament to be held in East London from 26-28 April 2025, which was only officially communicated on 13 February 2025.

Following consultations with various stakeholders, we find that this sudden scheduling places an undue burden on our members, both financially and structurally, while perpetuating a cycle of inadequate planning and lack of transparency that has hindered the growth of South African water polo for far too long.

Financial Burden

Water polo in South Africa is largely self-funded, and proper planning is essential for both players and parents to budget, fundraise, and secure sponsorships. The Gauteng Invitational Tournament (GIT), set for 3-6 April 2025, was announced on 12 November 2024, providing athletes with nearly six months of preparation. Players and teams have committed financially, with individual costs ranging between R10,000 and R12,000 per player.

In contrast, the newly scheduled National Tournament—only communicated in mid-February—doubles the financial burden in a single month, with an estimated cost of R20,000 to R25,000 per player. This is unsustainable, especially considering these same players may soon be required to self-fund international tours and training camps.

Unfair Treatment and Lack of Planning

Lack of Clarity: Three Scheduling Attempts, No Consistency

  • December 2024: The first proposed date, later changed due to the WA World Cups—a reasonable adjustment.
  • January 10-12, 2025: The second proposed date, poorly chosen as it fell within the school, university, and business holiday period. No official communication was issued regarding its postponement or cancellation, causing unnecessary financial losses for some players who adjusted their plans to accommodate the tournament.
  • April 26-28, 2025: The latest proposed date, which presents significant logistical and financial challenges due to the short notice, the clash with academic schedules, and the lack of sufficient preparation time for provincial teams.

Additionally, selecting a date that falls after the domestic and school water polo season ends (mid-to-late March) means that many teams will have already shut down their programs, making preparation difficult. For those without access to heated or indoor facilities, training in colder weather becomes an additional obstacle.

Lack of Process and Selection Concerns

  • No Senior National Trials have been held since December 2023—a 14-month gap, demonstrating ongoing neglect of our senior program.
  • No U20 National Selection Trials have taken place, despite multiple promises, leading to frustration and confusion among players and parents.
  • The Gauteng Invitational Tournament (GIT), which will feature nearly 30 teams, presents an ideal opportunity for fair and transparent national team selections. Holding a rushed national tournament instead, with limited participation and preparation, raises serious concerns about fairness and competitiveness.\The GIT allows for more preparation time for international competitions, whereas the hastily scheduled Nationals risk South Africa once again sending poorly prepared teams to global events.

Additionally, the GIT takes place during university holidays, allowing student-athletes to compete without missing crucial academic commitments. The National Tournament, however, falls directly in the second university semester and school term, forcing players to choose between academics and national eligibility.

A Call for Fairness and a Forward-Thinking Strategy

  1. The Gauteng Invitational Tournament be officially recognized as a valid selection tournament for national team eligibility in 2025 due to its structured planning and strong level of participation.

  2. A formalized and transparent planning process for future tournaments, ensuring schedules are set and communicated at least six months in advance.

  3. Greater financial support mechanisms for national team players to reduce the self-funded burden, allowing more equitable access to high-level competition.

  4. Regional representation in national decision-making, ensuring that all major water polo provinces—Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and others—have a voice in structuring the national calendar.

We submit this letter not as a rebuke but as a constructive appeal for common sense and fairness. The South African water polo community deserves better planning, more transparency, and a leadership structure that prioritizes the players and the growth of the sport. We will be taking an official stance on this matter in the coming weeks, and we look forward to engaging in discussions that move our sport forward in a meaningful way.

A Threat to the Sport’s Future

It has come to our attention that there are rumors suggesting SSA is considering banning players and officials who support the Gauteng Invitational Tournament. If true, this would represent yet another attempt to stifle growth and control the sport rather than develop it. This punitive approach does nothing but alienate dedicated players, coaches, and administrators who invest time, effort, and financial resources into the sport’s success.

Instead of embracing the GIT as a valuable addition to the national calendar, SSA appears intent on suppressing initiatives that do not align with its rigid and outdated framework. Such actions serve only to diminish South African water polo rather than elevate it. If SSA truly wishes to see the sport thrive, it should work with all stakeholders to expand competitive opportunities rather than impose restrictive and punitive measures. The future of our sport depends on inclusive, forward-thinking leadership—not on tactics designed to control and marginalize those who seek to contribute positively to its growth.

Kind regards,

SIEGFRIED LOKOTSCH
CHAIRMAN

Parent/Guardian Agreement

Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo Parent/Guardian Agreement

As a parent or guardian of a player representing Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo, you play a critical role in supporting your child’s growth, fostering team spirit, and upholding the values of the organization. By signing this agreement, you acknowledge your responsibilities and commitment to the team’s success and well-being.

Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

1. Support and Encouragement

  • Encourage your child to do their best in both training and competitions.
  • Focus on their effort and improvement rather than solely on outcomes or wins.
  • Celebrate their achievements while teaching them to handle setbacks with resilience.

2. Respect for Coaches and Officials

  • Show respect for coaches, referees, and officials during games and practices.
  • Trust the decisions of coaches regarding player selection, team strategies, and game management.
  • Avoid confronting coaches or officials during matches or training sessions; address concerns in private, at an appropriate time.

3. Positive Role Modeling

  • Demonstrate good sportsmanship by supporting all players, not just your child.
  • Refrain from using abusive language, making derogatory remarks, or engaging in aggressive behavior toward players, officials, or other parents.
  • Maintain a positive attitude that aligns with the values of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo.

4. Communication

  • Keep the coaching staff informed of any personal, medical, or scheduling issues affecting your child’s participation.
  • Respond promptly to communications from the team or organization.
  • Raise concerns respectfully with team leadership, using official communication channels.

5. Commitment to Team Values

  • Ensure your child attends all practices, games, and tournaments, barring emergencies or prior arrangements with the coach.
  • Reinforce the importance of discipline, respect, and teamwork in your child’s participation.
  • Promote inclusivity and respect for all team members, regardless of background or ability.

6. Financial Responsibility

  • Fulfill financial obligations related to team participation, including registration fees, tournament costs, and any other agreed-upon expenses.
  • Notify the organization in advance if you experience difficulties in meeting financial commitments to explore possible solutions.

7. Safety and Welfare

  • Ensure your child is well-prepared for training and matches, including proper hydration, nutrition, and appropriate gear.
  • Inform the coaching staff of any medical conditions or injuries that may impact your child’s participation.
  • Cooperate with the organization’s efforts to create a safe and supportive environment for all players.

Acknowledgment and Agreement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understood this Parent/Guardian Agreement. I agree to adhere to the guidelines and expectations outlined herein and to support my child and the team in a positive and respectful manner.

Player’s Name: _________________________
Parent/Guardian Name: _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

Additional Parent/Guardian Name (if applicable): _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

NMB Water Polo Indemnity

Information to follow…

Player Code of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo

Last updated: June 2 2026 · Version 1.0

As a representative of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo, each player is expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, both in and out of the pool. By following this Player Code of Conduct, you contribute to the spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect that defines our organisation.

1. Respect

  • Respect your teammates, coaches, opponents, referees, and all officials at all times.
  • Value the contributions of every team member and foster a supportive environment.
  • Handle disagreements calmly and with maturity, allowing coaches or team leaders to mediate if necessary.

2. Sportsmanship

  • Demonstrate fair play and integrity during games, practices, and tournaments.
  • Accept decisions made by referees without complaint or confrontation.
  • Celebrate victories with humility and accept defeats with grace, always learning from the experience.

3. Commitment

  • Attend all practices, matches, and tournaments as scheduled, unless excused by a coach.
  • Be punctual and come prepared with the necessary equipment and mindset.
  • Give 100% effort during training sessions and games to improve your skills and contribute to the team.

4. Communication

  • Inform coaches in advance if you cannot attend a practice or match.
  • Approach coaches with questions, concerns, or feedback in a respectful manner.
  • Maintain open and respectful communication with teammates and parents.

5. Discipline

  • Adhere to team rules, schedules, and directives from coaches and staff.
  • Avoid unsportsmanlike behaviour, including foul language, aggressive actions, or inappropriate gestures.
  • Refrain from engaging in behaviours that could damage the reputation of Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo.

6. Representation

  • Wear the team uniform with pride and present yourself as a positive ambassador of the team.
  • Represent Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo with dignity, both at events and in the community.
  • Use social media responsibly, ensuring that any posts about the team or teammates reflect positively on the organisation.

7. Inclusivity

  • Welcome and support players of all backgrounds and abilities, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
  • Participate in programs that encourage younger or less experienced players to grow in the sport.

8. Health and Safety

  • Prioritise your physical and mental well-being by staying hydrated, eating healthily, and getting adequate rest.
  • Inform your coach of any injuries or conditions that may affect your ability to participate.
  • Follow all safety guidelines provided during training and matches.

9. Anti-Bullying and Harassment

  • Treat everyone with kindness and respect, refraining from any form of bullying, harassment, or exclusion.
  • Report any incidents of bullying or harassment to a coach or trusted adult immediately.

10. Accountability

  • Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on the team.
  • Accept constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth.
  • Always strive to be the best version of yourself, on and off the field.

Acknowledgment

By signing this document, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to adhere to the Nelson Mandela Bay Schools Water Polo Player Code of Conduct. I understand that failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the team.

Player’s Name: _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name (if under 18): _________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Date: _________________________________