Ferencvaros water polo players Adam Nagy and Vince Varga were amongst many Fradi athletes who took time off from their training to assist in flood defense efforts this week as Budapest grappled with severe flooding.
After days of heavy rain across Central Europe, the Danube River breached its banks, threatening several areas of the city, particularly on the riverbank.
Floodwaters reached nearly 9 meters in height, affecting various parts of Budapest, including the historic Alfred Hajós National Swimming Pool on Margaret Island. The pool, an iconic water polo venue, had to be temporarily closed due to the flood risk. Several local clubs, including UVSE, KSI, and OSC, were forced to relocate their training, with neighboring sports facilities offering to accommodate them.
Nagy and Varga joined many other volunteers in filling and stacking sandbags to protect vulnerable areas, including the Alfred Hajos pool. Their efforts were pivotal in bolstering flood defenses ahead of their season opener on Wednesday, where they secured a dominant 23-7 win over DVSE in Debrecen.
Working alongside the Hungarian Defense Forces, Olympic and world champion athletes, and volunteers, the water polo stars demonstrated the strength of the local sports community. It was a no-brainer for us to help out,” said Ádám Nagy. “This city and this pool have given us so much; it’s only right that we give back during times like these.”
State Secretary for Sports Ádám Schmidt, who was also present at the flood defense efforts, commended the athletes’ involvement. “It’s inspiring to see our sports community come together. Athletes like Adam and Vince are champions not only in the pool but also for their city.”
Hungarian national team players including captain Szilard Jansik, Vendel Vigvari and Soma Vogel were also seen joining federation president Norbert Madaras in joining the defence effort in a video posted on the Hungary Water Polo Federation’s social media channels.
Although the floodwaters have started to recede, parts of Budapest remain submerged, particularly along the riverbanks. Streets are flooded, and public transport has been severely disrupted. Sandbags now line key locations like Batthyány Square and Margaret Bridge, where local residents and volunteers, including athletes, continue to work tirelessly.
After damage assessments take place, any clubs are expected to return to their normal training on Margaret Island before the end of next week.
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