In a stunning development, Sabadell has announced the signing of Spanish water polo icon Roser Tarragó for the remainder of the 2024–25 season.
The two-time Olympic silver medalist returns to top-level competition to reinforce David Palma’s squad in the Spanish League, though she will not be eligible to compete in the Women’s Champions League.
Tarragó, who turns 32 this week, began training with the reigning European champions at Can Llong last week. Her addition is a timely boost for the Catalan club, who are aiming to reclaim the domestic league title.
The move comes in response to a reduced roster following the maternity leaves of Judith Forca and Maica García, both cornerstones of Sabadell’s attack. While the club had strengthened their Champions League squad with Tara Prentice and Maggie Steffens, league regulations only allow a maximum of four foreign players. With Laura Aarts, Simone van de Kraats, Sofia Giustini, and Rita Keszthelyi already occupying those spots, Steffens and Prentice are ineligible for domestic competition.
Unlike them, Tarragó was a free agent at the time of signing—meaning she can be registered for league play under Spanish federation rules.
Palma: “She Has Brutal Talent”
Sabadell head coach David Palma expressed his excitement at securing Tarragó’s signature:
“She’s a player I’ve always admired. We tried to sign her in past seasons, but it didn’t work out—her priorities weren’t on water polo at the time. But the connection we’ve built made this possible. Roser brings brutal talent, a powerful shot, and a lot of personality. She’s here to help us win.”
A Storied Career
Tarragó’s career is among the most decorated in Spanish women’s water polo history. Born in Mataró, she made her national team debut in her teens and quickly became a key figure in Spain’s golden era. She won Olympic silver medals in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020, World Championship gold in Barcelona 2013, and European Championship golds in 2014 and 2020.
Over the years, she has had stints with Mataró, Mediterrani, and Tenerife Echeyde, as well as a collegiate career at the University of California, Berkeley. Most recently, she played with Atlètic Barceloneta, before announcing her retirement at the end of last season.
This is not Tarragó’s first return from retirement. After stepping away post-Tokyo, she rejoined the Spanish league with Echeyde in 2021 and Barceloneta the following season. Now, Sabadell becomes her fifth Spanish club, and potentially the last chapter of an illustrious career.
Eyes on the League Title
Sabadell, who suffered a surprising defeat in the Copa de la Reina final, are aiming to close the season strongly and reclaim the league crown. Tarragó’s return adds valuable depth, leadership, and one of the most feared outside shots in the game.