Life Membership: Mark Oberman (2008)

Born in Perth, in 1967, Mark was selected to train and live at the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra. While at the AIS, he forged strong friendships with other water polo athletes from Cronulla and in 1988 at the conclusion of his scholarship, joined Cronulla bringing his elite skills and mindset to the club.

Once at Cronulla, from 1988 to 2000, Mark played for NSW and was selected in the Australian Men’s team for three World Championships (1991, 1994, 1998) and two Olympic Games (Barcelona 1992 and Sydney 2000), totalling a huge 392 games for Australia.

With Cronulla, Mark played 1st Grade in the NSW Metropolitan competition winning multiple NSW Premierships. He went on to play 152 games with Cronulla in the dominating Men’s National League team for 10 seasons from 1991-2000 winning 5 gold, 4 silver and 1 bronze medal and gold in the 1991 Australian Club Championships.

Mark was issued perpetual Shark’s cap #19 after retiring following the Sydney Olympics.

Many club members benefitted from Mark’s coaching in the 90s as he assisted with the development of the younger players coming through the grades

When asked about his memories of his time at Cronulla, Mark said:

“My memories of Cronulla Water Polo Club were of a very united and happy club. We were consequently successful because of the camaraderie and thoughtfulness we had for each other. The administration was also very supportive and were able to keep the team together for a very long time.

It was a great place to learn how to play water polo at a very high standard because of the players that were in the club from its inception. I have not been at a club since, that has been able to demonstrate the enthusiasm and love for everyone involved that made Cronulla such a success.

They are my best memories in Water Polo.

While at Cronulla I was laser focussed on my playing career and as such, a few other members were inspirational for me: Andrew Kerr (Akerr), Robert Bryant (Rocko) and Greg McFadden (Dumpa); all for very different reasons.

Having had a lifetime to appreciate my time with Cronulla, I was and am proud to call it my club. My teammates and club members’ support gave me inspiration and strength to compete at my best for Cronulla."

Mark was awarded Life Membership to Cronulla Sutherland Water Polo Club in 2008, recognising his contribution to the club as an elite player for over a decade and his generous support of younger players.