Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, we spoke to Queensland Leasing Executive Adrian Berehulak, whose son Marcus has been selected to represent the Australian Men’s Water Polo Team. Adrian has held various positions throughout his 28-year tenure with Scentre Group and is currently based at Westfield Helensvale.

Adrian will head to Paris this month to watch Marcus make his Olympic debut and gave us a glimpse into what it was like raising an elite athlete. Marcus comes from a family of talented sportspeople and has played a number of sports over the years, including rugby and AFL, as well as being a handy swimmer and triathlete.

When did Marcus first show interest in water polo?

He first dreamt of being an Olympian probably around age 9 or 10, but at that stage it was as a swimmer. At age 12, he attended his first water polo camp in Brisbane and by age 15, he had been selected in his first Australian representative team.

How has the family supported his journey?

As a swimmer and being up at 5am most mornings, we’ve been to literally every pool in Brisbane. Until Marcus had his driver’s licence, we were obviously part of that journey. He’s had numerous overseas opportunities to play in the Australian teams, so whenever we could, we would always be there. We’re the first people he rings after a game, whether it’s overseas or at home, good or bad, and we’re always there to support him. He's completing a degree and working part time, as well as the heavy training schedule.

What is Marcus studying?

He’s completing a Psychology degree at the Australian Catholic University in Sydney.

Besides seeing Marcus, what are you most excited for in Paris?

Living and experiencing the Olympic spirit in Paris itself. We were fortunate enough to be in Sydney for the Olympic Games, which Westfield sponsored, and experience the buzz and absolute excitement that comes with that. We’ve travelled to Paris before and it’s obviously a stunningly beautiful city, culturally rich. So, combining the two, and experiencing the Olympic Games in Paris, will definitely be the number one highlight.

Which sporting events are you most excited to watch at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games?

To be honest, everything. Marcus’ team will play at least five matches, with a game every second day, so it’s more about what we can pack in! We’ve been able to secure some volleyball tickets and we would have loved to see the Dolphins (the Australian Swimming Team) and obviously the Matildas, particularly after their very inspirational World Cup.

How does it feel to be the father of an Olympian?

I’m extremely proud - immensely proud, and honoured, to be a father of an Olympian, but mostly happy for him that he’s achieved his dream doing what he loves.

What do you hope Marcus gets out of his Olympic Games experience?

I just want Marcus to be proud of his achievements in representing Australia as an Olympian, competing at the highest level and playing with his mates.

What words of advice would you give Marcus before he competes?

Enjoy the moment, leave nothing in the tank, trust the process, your talent, and back yourself.

Westfield’s partnership with the Australian Olympic and Paralympic teams will see all 37 Westfield centres across Australia transform into Live Sites for our customers to enjoy key events and matches direct from Paris. More information on the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games coming soon.