The Nautical Club of Arcos de Valdevez (CNAV) won the under-16 Portugal Cup of Kayak Polo at home, but faces a problem of lack of recognition in the municipality itself. President Filipe Silva regrets that many people in the center of the county are not even aware of the sport's existence, despite the athletes being on the Vez river year-round.
The Municipal Council provides about eight thousand euros annually to the club, an amount that ensures basic operations, but does not allow for equipment replacement. Filipe Silva argues that a protocol of 12 to 14 thousand euros would enable savings and investment in infrastructure. The organization of the Portugal Cup itself also represented a significant financial effort, with the Federation only covering the referees' transportation, forcing CNAV to pay for accommodation, meals, and supervision from its own resources.
On trips, the situation repeats itself, with athletes often needing three vehicles. Filipe Silva even uses his personal car to transport the kayaks, while athletes' accommodation is often covered by parents. The club is also demanding the construction of an access ramp to the Vez River, a project that has been awaiting approval for years, given that the kayaks are heavy and younger athletes have difficulty transporting them.
Despite the limitations, CNAV stands out for its focus on women's kayak polo, with five female athletes, one of the highest numbers nationwide. The sport currently has no women's championship, forcing players to compete on mixed teams.
