The training camp of the Ukrainian national water polo team in Slovakia has become not only a game practice, but also an important element of strategic changes in the approach to team training. This was stated by the President of the Water Polo Federation of Ukraine Oleksandr Svishchov, summarising the results of the first training camp in 2025.

During the training camp, the Ukrainian team played friendly matches against the Slovak national team and local club Hornets. It was an opportunity for Ukraine to test its own level against the opponents who are preparing for the continental championship. According to Svishchov, the results of the matches against the club team confirmed the positive dynamics.

The key news was the hiring of Croatian coach Nikica Gulin. The Water Polo Federation of Ukraine President emphasised that inviting a foreign specialist was a conscious step within the long-term strategy of youth water polo development.

Gulin worked with the team as a consultant coach, analysing the level of players’ preparation and the potential of the squad. According to Oleksandr Svishchov, he perceived the Ukrainian team well and expressed his readiness to join the system work.

The federation plans that the Croatian specialist will head the U20 national youth team and will accompany the national team as a consultant. The main goal is to ensure quality preparation for the European Championship, where the Ukrainian youth team will fight for a place in the elite division.

Svishchov noted that the coach’s understanding of Ukrainian realities was particularly valuable. Personal experience of the war has shaped Gulin’s clear position on the aggressor and solidarity with Ukraine.

Separately, the President of the Water Polo Federation of Ukraine dwelt on the issue of participation in international competitions under the conditions of possible admission of Russian teams. The Federation is acting solely within the framework of the government position and is awaiting official recommendations from the relevant ministry.

Svischev also positively assessed the prospects for the second part of the season in national championships, noting that the stability of domestic tournaments directly affects the competitiveness of national teams.