William Wilson (aquatics)

In 1877, Wilson drew up a set of rules for a team water ball game, which he called "aquatic football".

Flags were placed eight or ten feet apart on the shore and players used a soft ball of Indian rubber, called a pulu.

In 1885, the Swimming Association of Great Britain, recognized the game, now called water polo, and formulated a set of rules expanding on Wilson's rulebook.

These eventually became the basis of FINA international rules, as the sport spread to Europe, America and Australia.

Wilson's methods circulated in the form of a handbook, and in recognition of his contribution, he was elected the first Life Governor of the Royal Lifesaving Society.

"A successful teacher of the art of swimming ought to devote as much thought, application, hard work and constant practice as almost any branch of education or science" (Photo courtesy of the International Swimming Hall of Fame )