BRIDGEPORT, Pa. — Brown University Director of Water Polo/Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches (ACWPC) President Felix Mercado received the inaugural/2024 ACWPC Equity and Inclusion Award.
The ACWPC also announced that the award will be named the Felix Mercado Equity and Inclusion Award, celebrating the work Mercado has done in the water polo community.
“I am so honored and humbled to receive this award from the Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches (ACWPC), and I want to express my sincere gratitude to them for recognizing my contributions to the sport,” said Mercado. “Water polo has been a significant part of my life, and I am passionate about expanding its reach and ensuring that it is accessible to everyone.
“During my recent visit to El Salvador, where I had the opportunity to witness international teams compete, I was reminded of the power of water polo in providing opportunities for young men and women around the world. It is truly a sport that transcends borders and brings people together through a shared love for the game.”
“I am committed to continuing the work we initiated a few years ago to advance the sport of water polo. I am grateful to Dr. M. Grace Calhoun and Brown University for supporting me in balancing my passion for the sport with my other responsibilities. Additionally, I want to acknowledge the crucial role played by USA Water Polo in promoting equity and inclusion within the sport. The grant programs they have established have been instrumental in bringing water polo to underserved communities and expanding access to the sport.”
“As I reflect on receiving this award, I am reminded of the collective effort of the water polo community in advocating for greater participation and diversity within the sport. I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received along the way, and I am excited to continue working towards a more inclusive and accessible water polo community. Thank you to the ACWPC, Dr. Grace Calhoun, Brown University, and USA Water Polo for their ongoing commitment to advancing our sport.”
The award, which will be decided in the future by the ACWPC Selection Committee, recognizes either a coach or an organization which had demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the water polo community.
In 2020, Mercado was selected as a member of USA Water Polo’s Racial Equity & Reform Task Force.
Information courtesy Brown University Athletics Communications
