Oleksandr Svishchov on the Super League, the Dynamo Lviv championship and the visit by representatives of European Aquatics
The final round of the Ukrainian Water Polo Championship for men’s Super League teams concluded in Lviv with a spectacular victory for the hosts — WC “Dynamo Lviv” won its 13th championship title in history and its 8th in a row. Also on the podium were the teams NTU “KhPI” – SHSM (2nd place) and KZ LOR “LFKS” – “Aquatico” (3rd place).
The event was attended by senior representatives of European Aquatics — the organisation’s president, Professor António José Silva, and vice-president Erkan Yalçın — who were able to see for themselves the conditions in which Ukrainian athletes train. Their visit was not only an expression of support for Ukrainian sport, but also an important diplomatic signal.
Oleksandr Svishchov’s sports diplomacy and the isolation of the aggressor
Oleksandr Svishchov, President of the Ukrainian Water Polo Federation, emphasised that he had taken the opportunity to set out his fundamental position on the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international competitions: “I am very pleased that representatives from European Aquatics have come to visit us and that they were able to see the conditions in which water polo players train and compete. We have set out our position to them. I hope they will support us.”
Oleksandr Svishchov also emphasised the significance of the very fact that the competition is being held in wartime: “Sport during wartime is also our front line. By developing water polo today, we are laying the foundations for Ukraine’s future victories on the international stage. Our teams are renewing themselves, developing and proving that the Ukrainian nation cannot be broken.”
The President of European Aquatics, António José Silva, who also visited Odessa and Kyiv, noted that he sees a realistic path for the development of water sports in Ukraine — both in terms of rebuilding damaged infrastructure and preparing elite-level athletes.
Andriy Moskalenko, First Deputy Mayor of Lviv, emphasised the importance of international officials being physically present in Ukraine – particularly following the recent rocket attacks.
Coaches and players also shared their thoughts. Alexei Shvedov, head coach of Dynamo Lviv, highlighted the team spirit and winning tradition that attract new players. Oleg Dobush, coach of LFKS-Aquatico, described the bronze medal won for the second season in a row as a great achievement for the young team.
A younger squad and the foundation for future victories
In addition to pursuing its geopolitical objectives, the Federation places great emphasis on internal development and generational renewal within teams. The process of revitalising squads is underway at all Super League clubs, enabling the development of a new generation of strong water polo players.
“Our current performance in the Super League is not just a matter of cold, hard statistics, but above all a solid foundation for our future. Despite all the difficulties, water polo clubs are rejuvenating, players are gaining invaluable experience and are gradually reaching a level at which we will be able to compete confidently with the world’s leading teams,” noted Aleksander Juriewicz Swiszczew.
Water polo in Ukraine is currently showing impressive vitality, becoming an important part of the country’s international reputation. Despite daily challenges, championships are held regularly and the pool of participants remains broad. Undoubtedly, the driving force behind these achievements is the effective leadership of Oleksandr Svishchov at the helm of the Ukrainian Water Polo Federation. Thanks to his personal efforts and commitment, the Federation has not only kept the sport alive in the country but has also transformed every tournament into a platform for powerful sports diplomacy, where Ukraine’s voice is heard loud and clear.
