Club Natación Atlétic Barceloneta, formed from the merger of two of the neighbourhood’s pioneering clubs, Atlétic and Barceloneta, has managed to reach and maintain the very top at both national and international level.
The figures speak for themselves: 2 European Cups, 1 European Super Cup, 26 league titles (23 this century), 15 Copa del Rey titles, as well as Spanish Super Cups and Catalan Cups.
In addition to these titles, it is worth highlighting the club’s appearances in the Final Four, with five third-place finishes and two fourth-place finishes. These are commendable results, given the calibre of the teams that reach the finals.
But the club – or rather, the clubs before the merger – has a history that we must not forget. We must remember all the athletes (water polo players and swimmers, both men and women) who have been part of our club. From our first Olympians, Sito Cànovas and Lolo Ibern at Mexico ’64, to the players and coaches who form the backbone of the current, successful Spanish national team.
The start of this successful era can be traced back to 1995, with the new facilities. From that date onwards, the club committed to professionalising the water polo section. Firstly, by bringing in a prestigious coach such as Santi Fernández to develop a long-term project – initially from the dugout, then as director of the section, and finally as manager. Next, we are placing our trust in home-grown talent such as the brothers Chus and David Martín, coaches from our first Champions League campaign. Chus, currently coach of the women’s team, is a key figure for the club, whilst David is the current national team manager. Or people like Dani López Pinedo and our current coach, Fran Fernández.
Home-grown talent who understands our values and have a deep connection to the club.
Julián García
President CNAB
