The Aussie Sharks have become the first nation to unveil their squad for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, which will be held from July 11–24 in Singapore. Head Coach Tim Hamill has wasted no time in locking in his 15-player roster, a move that may provide a decisive edge in what promises to be an ultra-competitive tournament.
In an assertive and forward-thinking decision, Hamill’s early squad announcement underscores his commitment to giving the team the best possible preparation. With every marginal gain critical at the highest level, extra time for tactical development, team cohesion, and climate adaptation—especially under Singapore’s humid conditions—could prove invaluable.
The squad features a strong core from New South Wales, with nine players hailing from the state, supported by experienced internationals from Queensland and Western Australia. Familiar names such as Tim Putt, Luke Pavillard, Nic Porter, and Marcus Berehulak bring essential experience and composure, having been part of the Sharks’ previous campaigns.
Australia’s 2025 World Championships Squad
- Laurence Barker (NSW)
- Marcus Berehulak (Jadran Split / QLD)
- Matthew Byrnes (Sabac / NSW)
- Tristan Glanznig (NSW)
- Andrej Grgurevic (USC / NSW)
- Angus Lambie (NSW)
- Milos Maksimovic (Posillipo / NSW)
- Drew McJannett (NSW)
- Jacob Mercep ( Dinamo Bucharest/NSW)
- Sam Nangle (NSW)
- Charlie Negus (Dinamo Bucharest / NSW)
- Luke Pavillard (WA)
- Nic Porter (Panionios / QLD)
- Nathan Power (NSW)
- Tim Putt (WA)
The squad showcases a blend of emerging talent and seasoned leadership—hallmarks of Hamill’s approach since taking the reins. The inclusion of dual nationals Jacob Mercep and Milos Maksimovic highlights Water Polo Australia’s ongoing evolution in line with global trends, aiming to inject new technical profiles into the squad.
With other nations still finalising their rosters, Australia’s head start could prove influential. The Sharks will have a clear advantage in refining their systems and conditioning their bodies for the demanding schedule ahead.
The Aussie Sharks’ most successful campaign at the World Championships came in 1998, when they achieved a remarkable 4th-place finish, narrowly missing out on the podium. Since then, Australia has remained a consistent presence in the top tier of international water polo, though a return to those lofty heights has proven elusive.
While the Sharks have not broken back into the semifinals in recent years, they continue to command respect as a physically disciplined and tactically savvy opponent—capable of testing even the sport’s traditional powerhouses.
The 2025 edition in Singapore presents a fresh opportunity to recapture momentum and reassert their standing among the world’s elite. With an early squad announcement, renewed clarity of purpose, and a talented blend of youth and experience, Australia will be aiming not just to compete—but to contend.
Tough Group Draw Ahead
Australia has been drawn in Group B, alongside Spain, Hungary, and Japan—three nations with strong Olympic and World Championship pedigrees. Only the top team from the group will qualify directly for the quarter-finals. Second and third will face a crossover playoff, while the fourth-placed side will compete for minor classification (13th–16th place).
Following their 11th-place finish in Doha last year, the Sharks are eager to make a statement in Singapore. With the squad locked in and preparations underway, Australia is determined to rise to the occasion.
See Waterpolo 360’s Singapore 2025 World Championship Page
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