We are thrilled to honor Chris Duplanty as an inductee into the 2024 Hawai’i Waterman Hall of Fame, recognizing his remarkable achievements in Duke sports and community service. A three-time Olympian in water polo, Chris represented the United States at the 1988, 1992, and 1996 Olympic Games, winning a silver medal in 1988. He was also captain of the 1996 team. His exceptional performance earned him national recognition, being featured in major publications like LIFE and Sports Illustrated. It has been quite the journey for this former Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation scholarship recipient!
Beyond his athletic prowess, Chris’s dedication to water polo continued as he served as an assistant coach for the U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team during the 2000 Olympics, guiding them to their first-ever Olympic appearance where they earned a silver medal. His involvement in global competitions extends across multiple Pan American Games, World Cup Championships, and World University Games, where he earned numerous medals, including multiple gold medals.
A two-time United States Water Polo Athlete of the Year, Chris was also a standout swimmer at the University of California, Irvine, earning NCAA All-America honors and numerous accolades, including the Big West Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year. As a water polo player, the All American and his team won the NCAA National Championship in 1989. His roots in Hawai’i run deep, as a Punahou School alum (1984), where he excelled in both water polo and swimming, receiving All-America honors in both sports. He was also a swimming State Champion in 1982 in the breaststroke and was named the C. Dudley Pratt Athlete of the Year in 1984.
Chris has also made significant contributions out of the pool. He has been an active community leader, speaking to schools, organizations, and Olympic groups, promoting health, sportsmanship, and leadership. His volunteer efforts include roles with the American Red Cross, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Orange County, and Habitat for Humanity. He has also worked closely with the U.S. Olympic Committee, serving on its Board of Directors and supporting various youth and sports programs.
Chris Duplanty’s athletic excellence, leadership with Aloha, and commitment to service have made an indelible impact, and we are proud to recognize him as a true embodiment of the spirit of the Hawai’i Waterman Hall of Fame.
