Olympian Perrone backs Ghana’s water polo ambitions
In a landmark moment for aquatic sports in Ghana, five-time Olympian Felipe Perrone has thrown his weight behind the development of water polo in the country, holding high-level engagements with the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) and the Ghana Swimming Association (GSA) to mobilise national support for the sport.
Perrone, a Brazilian-born Spanish water polo legend who retired in July 2025 after more than 20 years at the top level, is currently a representative of World Aquatics and is deeply involved in expanding the game’s footprint across Africa.
A veteran of five Olympic Games between 2008 and 2024, Perrone captained Spain to world and continental glory, winning gold at the 2025 World Championship, the 2024 European Championship and the 2022 World Championship.
He now hopes to inspire and shape a new generation of elite water polo players in the region.
His Ghana visit also doubled as a capacity-building mission, headlining a Water Polo Coaches Course for about 50 participants at the Achimota School in Accra and Awutu Senya in the Central Region from January 14 to 16.
The programme was hosted by Black Star Polo, with support from the GSA and World Aquatics. An officiating course ran concurrently, facilitated by experienced American water polo official and former player, Tony Karaman.
At the Olympic House (GOC head office) in Accra, Perrone was warmly received by GOC President Richard Akpokavie, who reaffirmed the Ghanaian Olympic Movement’s commitment to working closely with the GSA to accelerate the sport’s development nationwide.
Accompanied by the GSA President Delphina Quaye, the meeting also highlighted the urgent need for stronger institutional backing as the association pushes to establish water polo on a firm national footing.
“I’m impressed with the level of talent available. I believe Ghana can become a powerhouse in water polo at the Olympic level if you invest in more swimming pools in schools and communities,” Perrone said.
