The Royal Spanish Swimming Federation (RFEN) has announced the appointment of Jordi Valls Nart as the new head coach of Spain’s women’s water polo team for the 2025-2028 Olympic cycle. Valls, a key figure in Spain’s historic successes over the past decade, will lead the national team through the next phase of competition, culminating in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. He will be officially presented at the CAR de Sant Cugat del Vallès in Barcelona on Tuesday at 12:30 PM, in an event open to the media.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Born in Terrassa in 1977, Valls has played a crucial role in shaping Spain’s women’s water polo dominance. As assistant coach to Miki Oca from 2009 to 2024, he contributed to the most successful era in the team’s history. His tenure saw Spain clinch gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics, adding to their previous silver medals in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020. He was also part of the coaching staff that led Spain to its first world championship title at the 2013 Barcelona World Championships.
Beyond his senior team achievements, Valls has an extensive background in developing young talent. He guided Spain’s U20 teams to World Championship gold in Trieste 2011 and Netanya 2021 and led the U19 team to European gold in Funchal 2018. His experience in youth development will be invaluable as Spain continues to build for the future.
Coaching Experience and Vision
Before joining RFEN’s national team setup, Valls held multiple coaching roles. He was responsible for the women’s technical development program at the Catalan Swimming Federation (FCN) in 2004 and served as assistant coach for Club Natació Terrassa’s men’s team from 2006 to 2008. In 2011, he took charge of FCN’s youth women’s team, further showcasing his ability to nurture rising stars.
Most recently, in January 2025, Valls served as interim head coach for the Spanish women’s team in the first phase of the World League in Alexandroupolis, Greece. Under his leadership, Spain secured first place, earning a spot in the Super Final set for April 2025. His transition to full-time head coach marks the beginning of a new chapter for Spanish women’s water polo.
Looking Ahead to Los Angeles 2028
As Spain sets its sights on defending its Olympic title and remaining a powerhouse in international water polo, Valls’ leadership, experience, and deep connection to the program will be critical. With a strong foundation of experienced players and emerging talent, his appointment signals continuity and ambition for the team.
With the next major competitions on the horizon, all eyes will be on Valls as he begins his journey as head coach, aiming to sustain and build upon Spain’s legacy in women’s water polo.