The IMANcorp Foundation has announced its commitment to promoting adaptive water polo in Spain with the launch of “Waterpolo Sin Límites.” This initiative marks a significant step towards establishing a national league for adaptive water polo, aimed at providing competitive opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. The project is currently gaining traction in Madrid, involving athletes, coaches, and various organizations.
Leading the initiative is Gabi Villarubia, known as “Villapela,” a former international water polo player with severe disabilities. He is joined by Félix Fernández, an Olympic water polo player from the 1984 Los Angeles Games and the technical director of Waterpolo Sin Límites, along with project director Tonï Sánchez. This dedicated team has been collaborating for months with clubs, federations, and international sports professionals to lay the groundwork for a regulated and stable league that welcomes all athletes with physical disabilities.
“We want individuals with disabilities to experience the thrill of competition, to be part of a team, and to feel the effort in the water like any other athlete,” Villarubia stated. Sánchez emphasized the project”s roots in passion and conviction, asserting that water can serve as a common ground for everyone, free of barriers and labels.
Félix Fernández remarked on the dual nature of the project, highlighting the privilege of working alongside the IMANcorp Foundation to offer individuals with disabilities the chance to engage in the sport they love, while also facing the challenge of establishing a competitive section that will eventually lead to the highly anticipated national league.
The IMANcorp Foundation, recognized for its efforts in championing social and labor inclusion for individuals with disabilities and promoting adaptive sports projects alongside businesses, is fully committed to this new phase of adaptive water polo. The foundation will assist in the dissemination of information and provide technical and social support for the participating teams.
Alba Escolà, director of the foundation, expressed her excitement about the momentous occasion, stating, “For the first time, a true national league for adaptive water polo is taking shape. We at IMANcorp Foundation aim to support and accompany this movement, believing firmly that sports can be a powerful tool for inclusion and social transformation.” Throughout October, the foundation is utilizing its social media platforms to raise awareness about barrier-free sports, sharing inspiring stories, interviews, and examples that demonstrate how sports can serve as a genuine vehicle for inclusion.
The goal is to officially launch the Adaptive Water Polo League in the coming months, starting with clubs from Madrid and gradually incorporating teams from other autonomous communities. In the medium term, organizers aspire for Spain to compete in international adaptive water polo tournaments. Water, a symbol of movement and balance, is now also becoming a stage for equality, effort, and community. In this new horizon, the IMANcorp Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in transforming inclusion into action.
For more information, contact [email protected] or call 931210963.
