Spartak Subotica launches initiative to reform Serbian water polo

Water polo club Spartak Subotica has introduced an “Initiative for the Salvation of Serbian Water Polo,” calling for radical structural changes to address what it describes as a serious management crisis within the national federation.

The club argues that the current leadership has become a source of pressure and mistrust rather than a protector of the sport. The initiative demands the resignation or replacement of the current management, insisting that leadership roles be assigned based on expertise and results rather than political or personal affiliations.

Key proposals from the initiative include:

• Reforming the competition system to align with European models, specifically suggesting a seasonal structure similar to the Hungarian system for youth categories. • Protecting players from clubs that fail to pay salaries through the establishment of a dedicated support budget. • Enhancing professional development via domestic and international coaching seminars. • Establishing an independent Professional Council composed of eminent figures in the sport.

The club emphasizes that water polo should be treated as a national interest, requiring systemic state investment, integration into school programs, and year-round access to swimming facilities.