Strengthening Global Bonds for Local Aquatic Growth. The week of April 14, 2025 marked a transformative chapter in the development of aquatic sports in Aruba. In a proud and historic moment, the island welcomed Mr. Husain Al-Musallam, President of World Aquatics, along with a delegation of international leaders in aquatics. This visit wasn’t just ceremonial—it was a working mission aimed at evaluating Aruba’s potential in the global aquatic sports arena and building relationships that could support future progress.
From the moment they stepped foot on Aruban soil, the delegation was immersed in our vibrant aquatic community, welcomed by top government officials, Olympic representatives, and passionate local stakeholders.
A Warm Welcome
Upon arrival, Mr. Al-Musallam and his delegation were warmly received by Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs. Gerlien Croes, along with key members of the Aruba Aquatics Federation (AAF). This symbolic welcome was also a strategic moment—an alignment between national policy and international opportunity.
Minister Croes expressed Aruba’s long-standing commitment to sports and youth development, emphasizing how aquatic disciplines play a growing role in the island’s athletic identity. The presence of the World Aquatics leadership signaled a strong recognition of that commitment on the world stage.
Comité Olímpico Arubano: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
One of the delegation’s first stops was the Comité Olímpico Arubano (COA), where they were welcomed by Vice President Sra. Nicole Hoevertsz, herself a prominent figure in international sport. The visit began with a guided tour of the COA headquarters, during which the delegation learned about the history of Aruba’s Olympic movement and its evolving infrastructure.
Following the tour, a presentation and roundtable discussion provided space for strategic dialogue. Topics included Aruba’s participation in international events, youth development programs, and the integration of aquatic sports into broader Olympic planning.
Sra. Hoevertsz spoke passionately about the importance of unity among federations and the need for tailored development pathways for small island nations. Mr. Al-Musallam acknowledged these challenges and reiterated World Aquatics’ interest in supporting innovative, locally adapted solutions.
Meeting with Government Leaders
Later that day, the delegation was formally received by Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister Gerlien Croes. The meeting highlighted not just Aruba’s hospitality, but also the country’s strategic interest in elevating aquatic sports as part of a broader commitment to youth development, public health, and international representation.
Discussions centered on how Aruba can position itself as a regional leader in aquatics, particularly through partnerships, training programs, and potential infrastructure development. The Prime Minister expressed pride in Aruba’s athletes and gratitude for World Aquatics’ willingness to explore collaboration.
What made this day truly impactful was the tone of mutual respect and shared purpose. Each meeting demonstrated a sincere willingness—from local and international sides alike—to collaborate, invest, and plan for a future where Aruba’s aquatic community thrives on a global level.
For the Aruba Aquatics Federation, this was more than a diplomatic visit. It was a validation of years of hard work and a sign that Aruba’s potential is being recognized beyond its shores.
What’s Next?
The opening day of this landmark visit set the stage for a week of hands-on collaboration, skill-building, and community connection. As the delegation prepared to dive into coaching sessions, athlete engagement, and cultural exchange, the tone was clear: this is just the beginning.
Stay tuned for the next blog in this series, where we take you inside the dynamic coaching workshops led by world-class advisor James Gibson, and the powerful impact they had on Aruba’s coaching community.
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