August 28th marked an exciting day for SwimRVA Rapids Water Polo as the Water Polo Experience stopped by for their Goalie vs Shooter Camp. The camp offered athletes the opportunity to practice alongside some of the world’s best players as they led the group through specialized drills, advanced techniques, and real game scenarios.
The camp was led by Denes Varga and Unai Aguirre, who both recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Varga, who serves as the captain of the Hungarian National Team, is an Olympic gold medalist and a two-time world champion. He has compiled an impressive list of national honors, ranging from the Youth European Championship all the way up to multiple Olympic games. Aguirre, who competes for Spain, also has national notoriety as he has compiled three World Championship podium finishes including a gold medal in 2022 among other notable achievements.
The camp began with a group warm up before splitting off into goalie and shooter specialties and finishing with a group scrimmage. After the conclusion of the workout, participants had the opportunity to collect autographs and enjoy pizza together as the day wrapped up.
Rapids players Mick and Lenard, who participated in the camp, sat down and shared their thoughts about the experience. “We’re growing the water polo team and we’re getting attention from bigger named people”, Mick voiced. “I mean, two of the greatest Olympians to ever play came to our pool so it’s pretty cool.”
When asked about the impact the camp will have on the team moving forward, Lenard shared that “because those great goalies and shooters came here and taught us how to play better that not only will our coaches be able to teach new players better, but we will be able to go on and be role models and leaders for the younger kids in order to make them great water polo players as well.”
About Water Polo Experience
At Water Polo Experience camps, athletes gain more than world-class coaching; they immerse in a culture of excellence, forming new friendships, exploring diverse cities, and embracing different cultures. These camps are an exceptional platform for young players to sharpen their skills, broaden their perspectives, and grow personally in some of the world’s most dynamic cities.