World Aquatics Foundation
The World Aquatics Foundation was created to address key global challenges in aquatic sports, water safety, and environmental sustainability. By focusing on the development of athletes, education on water safety, and the protection of water resources, the Foundation ensures that aquatic sports can thrive while making a positive impact on communities and the environment.
Board Members:
- Dale Neuburger: Chairman
- Donald Rukare: Vice Chairman
- Maggie Mac Neil: Member
- Giovanni Maria Fares: Member
- Lei Tang: Member
- Brent J. Nowicki: Secretary General
Statutes
Objectives
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Athlete Development
Provide direct scholarships for male and female athletes from developing countries to train at AQUA Training Centres. Ensure equitable access to world-class facilities and coaching through programmes approved by World Aquatics. Promote international cooperation by supporting joint training initiatives for athletes from diverse backgrounds.
It’s an honour to compete on the world stage and to send a message to refugees everywhere: if you have a dream, keep working towards it. It’s also not just about refugees, but about anyone facing challenges.
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Water Safety & Drowning Prevention
Implement or support swimming education programmes (e.g., "Discover Water") to reduce drowning incidents. Develop and train local experts to sustainably deliver these programmes.
World Aquatics and our 210 National Federations remain committed to working with the entire aquatics family to promote water safety and reduce the risk of drowning, and this initiative is just one of the many steps we are taking.
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Environmental Projects & Initiatives
Implement support water-related environmental projects initiated or approved by World Aquatics.
Our athletes compete in water. Preserving our seas, rivers and lakes is central to the survival of our planet and our sport. It is imperative that we all work together across the global sporting community - and beyond – for this critical issue.
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Development of Aquatic Sports
Support initiatives that promote aquatic sports at grassroots and elite levels. Encourage innovation, research, and education programmes to enhance the skills of coaches, officials, and sport administrators.