At 17, I impulsively dropped out of school, driven by a rebellious spirit and a misguided belief that I knew it all. My focus shifted to water polo, competing at the national league level, where the thrill of the sport consumed my days. However, reality soon caught up with me. Two months into an apprenticeship as an electrician, I realized this wasn’t the path I wanted for the long haul. Determined to carve out a different future, I enrolled in evening classes to earn my high school diploma.

For the next three years, my life became a juggling act. Days were spent on the construction site, honing my skills as an electrician, while evenings were dedicated to schooling or intense water polo training sessions. After completing my apprenticeship and obtaining my A-levels, I embarked on a new journey, delving into the world of law. Yet, amidst the rigors of legal studies, my passion for water polo remained strong. Balancing the demands of academics with coaching underprivileged youth, night shifts, and occasional construction gigs became my routine.

The birth of our first child marked a turning point. I seized the opportunity to join a trainee program at a well-known bank, all while continuing my studies and competing in water polo at a high level. This period was a whirlwind of professional growth, personal milestones, and relentless dedication. Eventually, I found myself in a new chapter, relocating to my wife’s homeland. Here, I transitioned into banking audit at one of the “Big 4” firms before venturing into sales. Despite these professional shifts, my commitment to family and career never wavered.

With the arrival of our third child, I made the bittersweet decision to bid farewell to my cherished water polo career. Nine national league titles adorned my journey, a testament to years of hard work and unwavering passion. As one door closed, another opened, ushering in a new phase filled with fresh challenges and opportunities for growth.