Meet Our Team
Our coaching and leadership team brings together high-level water polo experience, coaching expertise, and a commitment to creating a positive, competitive environment for young athletes.
Head Coach — Nikola Nikoli
Nikola Nikoli brings an impressive combination of Division I collegiate, international, professional, and coaching experience to the Texas Select program.
A former Division I student-athlete, Nikola competed at St. Francis College and San Jose State University, where he became a conference champion and helped his team reach the NCAA Finals, finishing 7th in the nation. He also represented the Serbian National Teams at the U16 and U18 levels and played professionally for three years with VK Nais, a Division I club in Serbia.
Nikola began his coaching career in Serbia and now coaches in Northern California with San Jose Express 14U/16U, in addition to coaching at water polo camps throughout the NorCal area.
He has served as a Texas Select Coach since 2025, bringing his competitive experience and passion for developing young athletes to the program.
Playing & Coaching Experience
- Division I water polo student-athlete at St. Francis College
- Named Rookie of the Tournament at two collegiate tournaments
- Division I water polo student-athlete at San Jose State University
- Conference Champion at San Jose State
- Competed in the NCAA Finals, finishing 7th in the nation
- Member of the Serbian National Teams — U16 and U18
- Professional water polo player with VK Nais, a Division I club in Serbia, for three years
- Coaching experience in Serbia
- Coach with San Jose Express 14U/16U
- Water polo camp coach throughout Northern California
- Texas Select Coach, 2025–Present
Contact Nikola
Club Coordinator — Staci Brode
Staci Brode brings more than 20 years of experience in youth and endurance sports to Texas Select, with extensive experience coordinating programs, events, athletes, coaches, and families.
As a longtime sports business owner, event director, and volunteer, Staci specializes in the organization and communication that help programs run smoothly and create a positive experience for athletes and their families.
She is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for young athletes while supporting coaches, families, and the broader club community.
In recognition of her commitment to youth sports and volunteer leadership, Staci was honored as USA Water Polo’s Southwest Zone Volunteer of the Year in 2025.
Experience & Leadership
- More than 20 years of experience in youth and endurance sports
- Sports business owner and event director
- Extensive experience coordinating athletes, coaches, families, programs, and events
- Longtime youth sports volunteer
- USA Water Polo Southwest Zone Volunteer of the Year, 2025
Contact Staci
Email: stacibrode@me.com
Phone: 214.405.5092 (Text is best/fastest)