Richmond Water Polo Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Life Member Terry Lewis.
Terry was a proud Richmond player, captain, coach, mentor and friend whose contribution to our club and the sport of water polo spanned decades.
A Victorian representative player and coach, Terry was part of a remarkable era of Richmond water polo, playing alongside club greats including Ian Mills, Jeff Barrow, John O’Brien, Wayne Miller, Bill Boyle, Kevin Boyle, John Gill, Brian Delvean and Billy Tilly.
As Richmond's A Grade Captain and Coach, Terry played a key role in one of the club's most successful periods, he was able to achieve great success while fostering the strong culture and camaraderie in the team.
The premiership flags he won with Richmond were something Terry kept with great pride, a lasting reminder of the teams, friendships and achievements that meant so much to him.
Terry was passionate about developing players and generously shared his knowledge and experience with generations of water polo athletes. Among those he coached and mentored were Greig “Spindles” Richardson, Chad Nash, Wayne Cartwright, Chris Ewart and Bill Brooks, helping to shape the next generation of Richmond players.
In later years, Terry became involved with NYP Dragons but he always remained part of the Richmond water polo family. Whether at a game, tournament on pool deck or at an infamous Richmond lunch Terry was always up for a chat, a story or a catch-up with old friends.
Terry’s passing is unexpected and he leaves us too soon. He will be remembered not only for his achievements in the pool, but for his friendship, leadership, generosity and enduring contribution to Richmond Water Polo Club and the wider water polo community.
On behalf of everyone at Richmond Water Polo Club, we extend our sincere condolences to Terry’s family, friends, teammates and all those whose lives he touched through water polo.
Vale Terry Lewis.
Bill Boyle, Terry Lewis & Kevin Boyle