The Club, State and National water polo community is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Water Polo Victoria CEO and Victorian Phoenix Committee member David Whittaker.
In recent years, David has been a strong driver in the re-emergence of water polo in Victoria at all levels and he has worked tirelessly for the sport and its people. Prior to that, David was instrumental in building the junior program at Sydney University, and assumed administrative duties of the Club. He was also a former CEO of Water Polo NSW.
When David came to the CEO position in Victoria, he was determined to assist the State to re-establish itself as a force in water polo. David was heavily involved and influential in the creation of the Victorian Phoenix Water Polo Club and in the club gaining a 3 year license back into the Australian Water Polo League. He understood the importance of all young players having something to aim for at the highest level in the country and also of providing all water polo lovers in Victoria with high performance water polo teams to watch and support. His passion for the sport didn’t stop there, with active promotion of water polo at all levels including in the country regions and Vic Country Champs and within school and inter school programs.
David was very supportive of Victoria re-emerging from our Covid-19 lock downs and to begin participating in National events again. He drove the States participation in the recent Summer Slam series in Brisbane and provided many young players with the opportunity to represent their State at the event.
“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 Water Polo League fixtures, teams will observe a minute silence in memory of David.
Victorian Phoenix Water Polo Club 