We are priviliged to receive an interview from Jurgen Konrad, who is involved in the momentus task of running a World Championship Competition. As we only speak English, our interivew was first translated into German and then the answers were translated back into English. Some meaning may have been lost in this process. We are grateful to receive the opinions of an administrator with an International responsibility, and thank Mr Konrad for his time.

What response have you had to the Competition so far? Will this be the biggest World Championships yet?
It will be the biggest Championships since the beginning. We are satisfied with the response, but it would be better if all nations in the world would play Canoe Polo and if all nations had entered.

Do you believe that the number of countries entering the competition should be limited?
We do not think that the entries should be limited. With regard to our experiences in European competitions and championships we made the experience of the Olympic spirit: being a participant is more important than winning.

Should developing countries enter teams in spite of a lack of experience?
We think yes, that the developing countries should take part. But there should be classification according their ability.

What sort of work force is involved in supporting this event? Is there a volunteer base involved?
All people who organise the World Championships do their job on volunteer basis. But there will be some financial support from the government, communities,etc.

What press attendance are you anticipating? Will there be television coverage?
The writing press will have a strong interest. There will be some smaller reports in different national and regional TV stations. International TV stations didn't show any interest.

What level of audience attendance is expected?
We expect between 8.000 and 10.000 spectators. We have seating places for 3.000 people.

The German Women's team are defending World Champions. What impact has this had on the Essen World Championships, and on canoe polo in Germany?
Canoe Polo is - especially for women - well established. The women hope that they can defend their title. We hope to give a positive impact onto Canoe Polo sport with these World Championships.

What benefits do you believe Germany will receive from hosting the World Championships?
Each organisation, each sportsman, they all have their aims. So do the organisation team in Essen and the sportsmen, with very high set targets. We do not want (and can not talk) about benefits. What really counts is the success.

What differences will this competition contribute to World Canoe Polo? Are there new standards set that will positively influence our sport?
We are not able to answer this question and we do not want to answer. This should be a question for the Canoe Polo Committee of the International Canoe Federation. A lot of our work is intended to set a standard for further World Championships. Our efforts aim to make finally Canoe Polo an Olympic Sport. Our region is competing to welcome the guests of the Olympic Games 2012.

We would like to thank you for your interest and we have the feeling that we have found a good friend in the Canoe Polo sport in New Zealand.

Best regards
Jurgen Konrad