What Is Water Polo?
Water polo is a fast-paced team sport played in a deep pool. Two teams try to score by throwing the ball into the other team’s goal – it’s like basketball and soccer, but in the water!
Watch a game of the Ogden Water Polo Team.
How Many Players Are in the Water?
Each team has 7 players at a time:
6 field players
1 goalie
Substitutions happen during stoppages or between quarters.
How Long Is a Game?
Games are played in 4 quarters, usually 8 minutes each (shorter for youth leagues).
There are short breaks between quarters and halves.
Can You Touch the Bottom?
Nope! Players tread water the entire game using the eggbeater kick – a strong, continuous motion that keeps you stay stable and high in the water.
How Do You Move With the Ball?
You can:
Swim while pushing the ball in front of you, or
Hold and pass/shoot with one hand (goalies can use both).
What’s a Foul?
Common fouls include:
Holding, sinking, or pulling an opponent
Touching the ball with two hands (except goalie)
Taking the ball underwater to protect it
Minor fouls = free throw
Major fouls = 20-second ejection (man-down)
What Does “Man-Up” / “Man-Down” Mean?
When a player is ejected, their team plays with one fewer player for 20 seconds.
The opposing team is a “man-up” for those 20 seconds and has a power-play advantage.
How Big Is the Goal?
Official goals are 3 meters wide and 0.9 meters high above the water.
What Equipment Do I Need?
- Tight-fitting swimsuit
- Water bottle
- Towel & dry clothes for after
Is Water Polo Rough?
It can be physical – like underwater wrestling at times!
Good technique, positioning, and fitness help you play safely and effectively.
Do I Need to Be a Great Swimmer?
Nope! – but you must be comfortable in deep water and able to swim multiple lengths without stopping. No experience is needed.
How Do Games Start?
Each quarter begins with a swim-off: both teams sprint for the ball at the center when the referee blows the whistle.
What are the Main Positions?
- Goalie – defends the net
- Center (Set) – plays near the goal, receives passes
- Drivers/Wings – move, pass, and shoot from the sides
- Point – top of the formation, like a playmaker
Are Substitutions Allowed?
Unlimited substitutions are allowed but only during breaks or when the ball is dead.
Goalies can switch only with referee approval or between periods.
