Zero saves. One goal against. To the untrained eye, it appears as though U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese essentially did nothing in the United States’ 4-1 win over Paraguay in their opening game of the World Cup. Yet, as with most complex activities—sports or otherwise—much nuance exists. To the trained eye, a goalkeeper’s job entails considerably more than the average 3-4 saves they make in a typical game.

World Aquatics' Women in Water Polo Leadership Programme, in cooperation with Official Match Ball Supplier KAP7, brings together female coaches and technical officials from across the globe to support their professional development. In the second of a series profiling the participants of this initiative, we speak to Marcella Braga, a referee from Brazil whose journey from player to official is opening doors for women in her country.

KAP7 is proud to announce a new partnership with Malibu Water Polo Camps, one of the premier training programs for young athletes in the United States. This collaboration brings together two organizations deeply committed to growing the sport and supporting the next generation of water polo players. Learn More