In this episode of the Waterpolo Expert Talk, I speak with Boris Margeta, internationally active water polo referee from Slovenia, about what it really takes to officiate at the highest level of the sport. Boris shares his journey from swimmer and water polo player to coach and elite referee, and explains why constant training is just as important for referees as it is for players.

We talk about the daily practice of referees, decision-making under extreme time pressure, the importance of experience inside the water, and how referees learn to read intentions rather than just movements. Boris also gives deep insight into the psychological demands of refereeing, communication between referee partners and the importance of trust and teamwork on deck.

A key focus of the episode is the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in water polo, how it works in major tournaments like Olympic qualification events, and which situations can be reviewed. We also discuss rule development, modernization of the sport, youth refereeing, and how Corona changed referee education through video analysis and online learning platforms.

Topics of this episode:
– From player & coach to international referee
– Why referees must train constantly
– Decision-making under water & under pressure
– Referee teamwork & communication with headset
– VAR in water polo: goal decisions, exclusions & brutality
– Youth refereeing & development of basic rules understanding
– Impact of Corona on referee education

This episode is highly valuable for players, coaches, referees, officials and water polo fans who want to understand the game from the perspective of the referee.

🔗 More about the podcast: https://www.schulzekopp.de