It is with deep sadness and regret that I’m informing the CWPA family about the passing of Stuart Heddle. Stu was an active parent, manager and coach in the program and in club water polo in the ACT. His passing has shocked the water polo community in the ACT and Australia and on behalf of that community I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to his beautiful family, his wife Jenny, daughter Jordan and son Aiden.

The Heddle’s began their water polo journey at Erindale pool on a Sunday afternoon in February 2013. From that moment Jordan and Aiden have played the game with the loving support of their parents. Stuart worked tirelessly for water polo, coaching and managing squads in Canberra. He was always first to lend a hand on tour, cooking meals for the athletes and helping out at junior competition.  Stuart’s passion for working with young people was evident, often travelling to Tuggeranong and Belconnen pools to coach Junior Dolphins even though his own children were not involved in those programs.

Stu was a fantastic coach, mentor and role model to everyone. His love and commitment to his family was obvious and his friendly and jovial demeanor on pool deck will be sorely missed. We have lost a very special person from our community and someone who cannot be replaced.

Junior competition tonight we will be played in memory of Stuart Heddle. Girls games at Gungahlin will be moved to the AIS and games will be played in a mixed format. The ACT water polo community will be honoring Stuart’s legacy tonight and it would be fantastic to see all players, coaches and parents at the AIS tonight at 7.00pm to remember Stuart.

Our thoughts are with the Heddle family and all those who have been affected by Stuart’s passing.

Yours sincerely,

The water polo family.

Support is available for anyone who may be distressed by phoning Lifeline 131 114; Mensline 1300 789 978; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.