My Coaching Journey

I noticed early on in my coaching career that most players in the US lack fundamentals. While they may be good swimmers, they don’t move, pass and catch the ball correctly. For instance if a player doesn’t have a proper kick, they will not be able to catch, pass and shoot the ball accurately and with precision. And if you want to be a great water polo player, you need to play with precision

I also saw that the US coaches don’t teach the fundamentals and advanced skills needed to be successful in the sport. This is because they were never taught how to play correctly and they were never taught the skills needed for their teams to be great. And there are usually too many athletes in the water so they are not able to concentrate on getting the small skills needed to improve. “Small improvements lead to huge gains!” is one of my favorite quotes

Because of this need, I started teaching private and small group lessons about ten years ago. The players I worked with quickly went on to be the best in their club and to go on to play in college. Since then, I have refined and perfected my teaching style and skills the players need. They not only improve quickly, they understand the game at a deeper level and even have fun doing it. “Improving is not always about working harder…you have to be smarter than the other guy!”

Expert Water Polo Instructor in Northern California

Water Polo Whisperer, based in Portola Valley, specializes in offering elite water polo coaching. I provide personalized private lessons and small group sessions to help players of all levels enhance their skills. With a focus on technique improvement and game understanding, I ensure that each athlete gains the ...

Unlock Your Water Polo Potential

At Water Polo Whisperer, I specialize in providing elite coaching through private lessons, small group lessons, and video analysis. My approach is focused on helping athletes improve their skills through personalized attention, ensuring they gain the precision needed to excel.

The private lessons allow for ...

A Legacy Built on Precision and Expertise

I began this journey because I noticed a gap in the development of water polo players. Many were missing the fundamentals that are crucial for success in the sport. As an Olympian and professional player, I saw that too many coaches lacked the ability to teach the small, yet powerful skills needed to excel.

Over ...

What differentiates my business?

First, there are very few coaches or businesses that do what I do. There are a few that put on clinics for a weekend, but they don’t make a long term commitment to the athletes and families.

Second, most coaches don’t have the in depth knowledge of the game at all levels. They may know what to do at an elite level ...

The Coach

Former pro-water polo athlete and Olympian, dedicated over 40 years to the sport. As a native born Ukrainian, I'm a well known, highly decorated gold, silver and bronze medalist, as well as an honored team member of the “Dynamo” Lviv Water Polo Club, Lviv, Ukraine. During my pro-water polo career, I represented Ukraine at numerous international competitions and cups, and led my Ukrainian Olympic Team as Captain for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. I have ...

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Key Features of Our Coaching

Our coaching services provide a solid foundation for success, focusing on technique, strategy, fitness, and mental toughness. With custom programs and continuous support, we help you achieve your goals. Our tailored approach ensures every athlete reaches their full potential in the sport.

Custom Training Programs

Tailored lessons specifically designed to meet the unique needs of each athlete, ensuring maximum progress and improvement.

Skill Development

Focus on all aspects of water polo, including technique, strategy, fitness, mental toughness, and game awareness.

Flexible Session Options

Offering private lessons, group sessions, and video analysis to fit various learning preferences and schedules.

Experienced Coaching

Years of hands-on experience as both a player and coach, bringing valuable real-world insights to every session.

Progress Tracking

Regular assessments to track continuous improvement, set new goals, and celebrate milestones along the way.

Dedicated Support

A commitment to providing consistent encouragement and expert feedback, ensuring athletes stay motivated and on track.