Water Polo Western Australia (WPWA) has appointed Sports Advisory Partners Australia (SAPA) to lead its Whole of Sport review, following a competitive procurement and interview process.

Supported by the WA Government through the Strategic Initiatives Grants Program, the review will examine WPWA’s governance, pathways, competitions and long‑term sustainability, ensuring the sport is best positioned to grow at all levels. The interview panel includes WPWA CEO Natalie Butler, WPWA Chair Justin McMillan, WPWA Board Member Dani Woodhouse and SportWest CEO, Troy Kirkham.

SAPA, led by executive directors Ian Prendergast and Sam Chadwick, bring extensive national experience in governance reform, organisational strategy, participation development and stakeholder engagement. Their team has delivered major strategic and structural reviews across multiple state and national sporting organisations and their clients include the AFL, Supercars, APL (A-Leagues) Football Australia, Gymnastics Australia, Golf Australia, NBL, WA Football, the SANFL, Basketball Victoria, Football West and Northern NSW Football.

Ian Prendergast said their priority was helping sports modernise their systems and build stronger pathways and participation outcomes.

“We pride ourselves on being genuine, long term business partners for our clients and recognise that this particular project must balance strategic reform with practical implementation.” Mr Prendergast said.

“We are aware that there is an immense amount of work to be done but we aim to deliver a holistic, independent and evidence-led review and are looking forward to working with the water polo community in WA and its key stakeholders.”.

CEO Natalie Butler said SAPA brought a strong combination of strategic expertise and a practical understanding of community sport.

“This review is a crucial step in ensuring our sport is structured for long‑term success, sustainability and growth. SAPA’s depth of experience and their understanding of the unique challenges faced by both community and high‑performance sport made them the standout choice.” Mrs Butler said.

“We are incredibly grateful to the WA Government for funding this project.

“Their support allows us to take a whole‑of‑sport view and build a stronger future for everyone involved in water polo in WA.”

Chair Justin McMillan echoed these sentiments with the Board committed to ensuring the sport thrives into the future.

“SAPA’s expertise will help us examine our structures, pathways and operations with clarity and independence.” Mr McMillan said.

“This review is about creating a contemporary, aligned and sustainable sport system, one that supports our clubs, volunteers, athletes and the next generation of participants.”

SAPA will begin stakeholder consultation in the coming weeks, with opportunities for clubs, members, athletes, coaches, officials and partners to contribute. WPWA will provide regular updates as the project progresses, which will be supported by a Working Committee.

 

For media enquiries:

Water Polo WA – Natalie Butler (CEO)
E: Natalie.butler@waterpolowa.asn.au

P: 0407 709 153