Regional Development Manager at Australian University Sport LTD, and former Participation and Engagement Manager at AFL NSWACT, Ben Haywood is set to take the role of Water Polo WA General Manager.
Mr Haywood was officially appointed by the WPWAI Board of Directors following a thorough recruitment process, replacing Dale Ballantyne who announced his resignation earlier this year.
With an extensive experience in sports administration, having worked in game and market development with the AFL for seven years, Mr Haywood has considerable skills in increasing participation, developing community partnerships and enhancing club environments.
Commenting on the new appointment, Water Polo WA Chair Tom Hoad is excited for the future of water polo in WA under Mr Haywood’s direction. “I am really looking forward to getting to know him better and to work with him to help our sport going forward,” Mr Hoad said.
With Bachelor degrees in Commerce (Management and Legal Studies) and a Master’s in Business (Sports Administration) from Deakin University, Mr Haywood feels privileged to be given this opportunity and welcomes the newfound challenges offered in his appointed role. “I look forward to working closely with the Water Polo WA Board to build on the fantastic work delivered to date,” Mr Haywood said.
“The sport in WA has had significant growth in recent years and is well positioned to increase this in years to come. WA Water polo has a proud, rich and successful history in producing players and teams and I look forward to contributing to this as well.”
Mr Haywood is starting his new role this week and he will be responsible for the management of the strategic and day-to-day operations of the organisation, with a focus on continuous improvement and development of the sport of Water Polo in Western Australia.
