European Aquatics supports strategic agreement to elevate aquatics in Spain
By Stephen Stanley
European Aquatics is proud to support a groundbreaking framework agreement between the University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM) and the Royal Spanish Swimming Federation (RFEN Aquatics), aimed at advancing the development of aquatic sports in Spain. The agreement, signed on 27th March at the Toledo Campus, marks a significant step in strengthening the sport’s infrastructure and future across the country.
European Aquatics President Antonio Silva joined UCLM Rector Julián Garde and RFEN President Fernando Carpena at the signing ceremony, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth, innovation, and inclusion in aquatic sports at the national level.
As an immediate outcome of this collaboration, the three institutions have initiated a technical working group to develop Spain’s first comprehensive strategic plan for aquatic sports. This initiative, inspired by European Aquatics’ guiding principles, is built upon four key pillars: future-proofing aquatic sports, enhancing transparency and governance, ensuring accessibility for all, and promoting participation across communities.
The six-year strategic plan will be overseen by a joint technical committee composed of experts from UCLM, RFEN, and European Aquatics. UCLM’s representatives include Francisco Sáez, Alejandro López, and José M. González, while RFEN will be represented by Fernando Carpena and Toni Ollé. Antonio Silva will serve as European Aquatics’ delegate in the committee, ensuring alignment with continental best practices and governance models.
This agreement is part of a broader European Aquatics effort to support national federations in enhancing their aquatic sports ecosystems. It will facilitate collaboration in key areas such as scientific research, technological innovation, athlete and coach development, and the promotion of aquatic sports as a vehicle for health and well-being.
Specific areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include digital transformation, industrial and business development, academic and career guidance, as well as the organisation of events that encourage participation in aquatic disciplines.
European Aquatics remains committed to working alongside national federations and academic institutions to drive excellence and accessibility in aquatic sports, ensuring a vibrant future for the sport across Europe.
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