Life Membership: Nic 'Watto' Watkins (2024)

Nic's exceptional dedication, leadership, and profound contributions to the club have left an indelible mark on its history and future.

Nic's commitment to Cronulla Water Polo Club is evident through his remarkable record of service. Nic, a second-generation Shark, began his playing involvement in the SSWPA competition as Bundeena Salmon before joining the academy program in 2001. As a player, Nic excelled in the juniors, achieving state and national age selections and touring with the Australian Schoolboys. His dedication is highlighted by an impressive tally of 339 games played for Cronulla (under his own name), along with 40 National League games and over 200 Grade games. Moreover, his participation in several international trips, including those to North Carolina and Hawaii, has not only showcased his talents but also elevated the club's profile on the
global stage. Nic continues to play and coach in the men’s grade system at present. Throughout his association with the club, Nic has voluntarily coached numerous academy teams in both the men's and women's programs and continues to support all coaches as required.

Prior to assuming the role of President in the 2020-21 season, Nic served as Secretary for the club for three seasons. In this time, Nic’s proactive approach in dealing with challenges and establishing clear lines of communication throughout the club led to improved processes and less strain on volunteers.

During his tenure as President from the 2020-21 season until the present, Nic has exhibited outstanding leadership qualities. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Nic navigated the club through unprecedented times, demonstrating resilience, innovation, and steadfast commitment to its members. Under his guidance, the club experienced unprecedented growth, with the 2020/21 season seeing more registered members than any other year, totaling 846 across both the representative and social clubs. Nic’s significant training and accreditations associated with sports governance and business have ensured that the club is governed to a high standard matching that of many professional organisations. 

Nic's vision and initiatives have propelled Cronulla Water Polo Club to new heights of excellence and integrity. Through his role at Revolutionise Sport, he has driven the digitization of the member base, enhancing communication and engagement within the club community. Additionally, Nic's establishment of scholarships for young players, his leadership in organising Bush to Bay tournaments, and his efforts to expand the use of Gunnamatta Bay as a home pool reflect his dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a sense of belonging among members. 

Nic’s focus on strategic governance culminated with the club establishing a clear mission statement comprising three key focuses: Excellence, Integrity, and Belonging. This, coupled with his passion to care for more than just the player but rather the person, has resulted in the club being seen by others as having a great culture, something that cannot be bought or acquired.

Furthermore, Nic's role in managing key sponsorships and partnerships, including the naming partnership with ACU, along with several mental health, social media, and wellbeing initiatives, underscores his strategic acumen and commitment to ensuring the club's long-term sustainability and success.
Nic Watkins is not only highly respected among his peers and within the water polo and sports communities but also cherished as an all-around good guy who leads by example. His tireless dedication, unwavering integrity, and genuine passion for Cronulla Water Polo Club make him an exceptionally deserving candidate for Life Membership. I would go as far as to say that without Nic's immense contribution, especially over the last five years, the club would not be anywhere near the position it is today.

Thank you for considering Nic's nomination. I am confident that his induction as a Life Member would be a fitting tribute to his extraordinary contributions and a source of inspiration for generations of Cronulla Water Polo Club members to come. 

Nominated by: Luke Brbot

Seconded by: Mathew Schweighoffer