Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
World Aquatics is implementing a new education structure for Technical Officials across aquatic sports, starting with water polo. The pathway features three levels: bronze, silver, and gold. The initial bronze course is fully online and accessible through World Aquatics' Community for Online Resources And Learning (CORAL) platform. Silver and gold courses will offer blended and in-person learning, respectively, rolling out through 2026. Access to these courses is managed by nominations from National Federations.
CORAL serves not just as a course repository but also as a social hub, connecting officials internationally and fostering a supportive community. Boris Margeta, an experienced Slovenian referee with six Olympic Games and eight years as President of the World Water Polo Referees' Association, developed the course content. He emphasized that the program aims to provide equal learning opportunities globally, addressing challenges faced by officials in less developed countries by making knowledge easily accessible.
Margeta, who transitioned from swimmer and player to referee, highlighted the importance of encouraging referees to actively seek knowledge. He urges young officials to pursue learning opportunities and freely ask questions, reflecting the educational philosophy behind the new pathway.