Get Into Water Polo
Water polo is officially recognised as one of the toughest sports in the world so it’s not for the fainthearted. Read on to learn more and how to have a go.
If you are at school then learn more about Mini-Polo, the fun introduction to water polo. Go to our Under-16s' section for more.Water polo is an exciting and fast-paced game combining the skill and tactical elements of football with the aggression and physical contest of rugby.
Two teams of seven play and the aim of the game is simple: to score more goals than the opposition.
Players move the ball by throwing it to a teammate, or swimming while pushing the ball in front of them. They can only hold the ball with one hand, except the goalkeeper who can use both hands.
Players aren’t allowed to touch the bottom of the pool (although the goalkeeper can) and must tread water using the ‘eggbeater’ technique for the duration of a match.
- Let our water polo players explain the basics of the sport in our Aquatics 2012 zone
- Meet our top water polo stars in our Aquatics Stars section
Who is water polo suited to?
- Both men and women can take part at any level from beginners to elite.
- You will need strong all-over body strength, excellent endurance and stamina, and strong swimming skills.
How do I give it a go?
Find your local water polo club online using our poolfinder and attend a taster session. If you’re a student then your university may have a water polo team.
- Go to our Pool Finder, locate your local pool and ask them about water polo taster sessions. Visit the Scottish Swimming or Welsh Swimming websites for clubs outside England.
- Find clubs by region in our ASA zone here.
- Find out more about clubs and competitions here
