BIWP resources

#BeInclusiveWaterPolo Resources

Empowering inclusion through adapted water polo

The #BeInclusiveWaterPolo project successfully proved that water polo can be inclusive, engaging, and accessible for people with intellectual disabilities. Implemented in Bulgaria and Croatia and co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, the initiative created a full set of materials designed to help coaches, educators, and sport clubs make aquatic sports more inclusive.

Below you will find the main resources developed within the project – all freely available to inspire and support anyone interested in bringing adapted water polo to their local community.

🏅 #BeInclusiveWaterPolo Handbook

The #BeInclusiveWaterPolo Handbook is the cornerstone of the project’s legacy. It offers a comprehensive yet practical guide for coaches, sport educators, and organizations who wish to implement adapted water polo sessions in their practice.

Inside the handbook, you’ll find:

  • Methodologies for inclusive and mixed-ability water polo training sessions;
  • Practical examples of warm-ups, teamwork drills, and communication exercises;
  • Guidance for adapting equipment, rules, and team structure to suit participants with different abilities;
  • Step-by-step recommendations for ensuring safety, motivation, and engagement during sessions.

The handbook aims to make the sport accessible to all – showing that inclusion is not only possible but highly rewarding for athletes, coaches, and teams alike.

📘 The handbook is available for download in English, Bulgarian, and Croatian:

#BeInclusiveWaterPolo Handbook (English version)

BIWP_Handbook_EN_compressedDownload

#BeInclusiveWaterPolo Handbook (Bulgarian version)

BIWP_Handbook_BG_compressedDownload

#BeInclusiveWaterPolo Handbook (Croatian version)

BIWP Handbook HR versionDownload

🎥 Video Experience from #BeInclusiveWaterPolo Trainings

This video collection captures the real stories, teamwork, and joy behind the #BeInclusiveWaterPolo training sessions.

Through authentic footage and participant experiences, the videos demonstrate:

  • How mixed-ability teams train together and support one another;
  • The role of coaches in building inclusive and motivating environments;
  • Adaptations in training methodology that make water polo suitable for everyone;
  • The emotional impact of inclusion through sport — confidence, teamwork, and friendship.

These clips serve as a source of inspiration for sport professionals and organizations eager to explore inclusive aquatic activities.

🎬 Watch the full playlist here: #BeInclusiveWaterPolo YouTube Playlist

💧 Article: “How to Start an #BeInclusiveWaterPolo Team”

Starting an adapted team can seem challenging – but with the right approach, it becomes an exciting journey of inclusion and teamwork. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for anyone ready to take the first step toward inclusive water polo.

It includes:

  • How to identify and engage interested participants;
  • How to adapt rules and training intensity for mixed-ability groups;
  • Guidance on involving parents, teachers, and local organizations;
  • Recommendations for communication and motivation in diverse teams.

This article turns inspiration into action – helping clubs and communities make inclusion in sport a lasting reality.

📰 Read the full article here: How to Start an #BeInclusiveWaterPolo Team

🎬 Animation: #BeInclusiveWaterPolo – Adapted Rules

Understanding the adapted rules is key to making water polo inclusive for all participants. This engaging animated video explains the most important adaptations developed during the project in a simple and visual way.

The video highlights:

  • Adjustments to rules and gameplay for players with different abilities;
  • Tips for creating a supportive and motivating team atmosphere;
  • The balance between competition and inclusion;
  • How adapted sport can be just as exciting and dynamic as traditional water polo.

The animation is a perfect tool for introducing inclusion in sport workshops, teacher training sessions, or awareness-raising events.

📺 Watch the animation here: #BeInclusiveWaterPolo – Adapted Rules

🌊 Legacy and Impact

The #BeInclusiveWaterPolo project leaves behind more than just materials – it leaves a movement. It inspired coaches, clubs, and institutions in Bulgaria and Croatia to take real action toward social inclusion, proving that everyone can belong in sport.

Through its practical resources, the project continues to empower communities, helping them:

  • Break stereotypes about intellectual disabilities;
  • Create meaningful opportunities for physical activity and teamwork;
  • Use sport as a tool for equality, respect, and social connection.

All project outputs remain freely accessible to ensure sustainability and long-term use by anyone wishing to replicate the experience.

🌐 Discover all resources and learn more at: www.mywaterpolo.org