It is believed that British holiday resort owners invented this rather strange pastime during the mid-1800s, in an attempt to attract guests. The 1st games were played on nearby rivers and lakes, and the game's passing similarity to horseback polo gave it the name "water polo."
In 1880, rules were introduced in Scotland to shift the game's focus to skill over force. A bigger ball, similar to a soccer ball, was used, nets were introduced and players could no longer tackle opponents who did not have possession of the ball. The same rules still apply to today's game.
Water polo is a team sport that requires strength, swimming skills, power, speed, (Jones, 2005). It’s the oldest continues Olympic team sport. The playing team consists of six field players and one goalkeeper with a maximum of six substitutes (Cicciarella, 2000).
The aim of the game:
-Generally speaking, Water Polo is a simple game. Two teams of seven in the water at one time, each attempting to push, carry or throw the ball into the opponents goal. -Water Polo is like a combination of many sports, and is played in a deep pool 30x20 meters for men, and 25x20 for women. You can learn about water polo very quickly if you appreciate the similarities between it and other games. However, the combination of unique aspects is what makes water polo so dynamic.
Players must negotiate the ball, by head, feet, or hand, a leather-covered ball 27 to 28 in. (about 70 cm) in circumference into the goals at opposite ends of a pool 19 to 30 yd (17.37 to 27.43 m) long and at most 20 yd (18.29 m) wide. The two competing teams consist of seven players each (One of which is the goalkeeper). Only one hand may be used to advance the ball, which must be carried on the surface. Rough defensive techniques permitted include ducking, i.e., holding a player underwater
How physical is water Polo? Another interesting point is the way water polo rules distinguish between degrees of physical contact. The four rules that deal with contact are: impeding (swimming over someone), pushing, holding and brutality. With the exception of brutality (intentionally striking the opponent), these rules do not apply when an opponent is holding the ball. In other words, they can be tackled. However, impeding and pushing are generally considered minor or ordinary fouls. To hold, sink or pull back an opponent not holding the ball is considered a major foul.
The main types of fouls include;-
touching the ball with two hands, if a field player
taking the ball underwater when tackled
impeding the progress of an opponent without the ball
pushing off an opponent
splashing
failing to shoot at the goal within 35 seconds of gaining possession or failure to advance the ball
What makes Water Polo different to other sports?
The main element: the game is played in water, which makes it difficult for the referee to see exactly what is going on underneath the surface of the water. Players may use subtle pushes and holds to improve their positions. Additionally, simply playing in the water adds a dimension of difficulty no found in other sports.
Mikasa Water Polo advert
Why choose Water Polo?
As there sre much more popular sports out there the question of why to choose water Polo is posed? Water Polo is one of the most physically demanding sports, in-turn making it one of the best maintain fitnessa nd health.
Water Polo can be great even just for the social aspects, with high levels of a 'United team' orirentation. Search for local clubs around your area to find out information on getting started.
The game of Water Polo
It is believed that British holiday resort owners invented this rather strange pastime during the mid-1800s, in an attempt to attract guests. The 1st games were played on nearby rivers and lakes, and the game's passing similarity to horseback polo gave it the name "water polo."
