Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Maria Daskalopoulou began swimming at four and a half before shifting to water polo at age 14. From 1990 to 2012, she enjoyed a distinguished playing career, winning national club championships, a junior World Championship with Greece, and two silver medals at European Championships.
After retiring at 35, Daskalopoulou enrolled in referee school in Greece—a decision she calls one of her best. She has since officiated at major events, including European Championships, the FISU World University Games, and the Euro Cup, refereeing several finals.
Her standout refereeing moment was leading the women's final at the 2019 Universiade in Naples before a crowd of 3,000 to 4,000 spectators—her first time officiating in such a large arena.
Daskalopoulou notes that refereeing offers a distinctly different understanding of water polo compared to playing, especially in foul-calling. She has observed the sport's evolution over 13 years, with increased speed and complexity leading to rule changes.
Committed to promoting women officials in Greece, Daskalopoulou notes that about eight women currently referee in the national league—a promising yet insufficient number for the sport's needs.