Learn Water Polo

📚 Learn Water Polo

← Back to Water Polo Hub (Rules, Pool Size, Scoring & Equipment)

Water polo is a fast-paced team sport played in a swimming pool. Players swim, pass and shoot the ball while staying afloat, aiming to score goals against the opposing team.

🏁 The Basics of Water Polo

Water polo is played with:

• 7 players per team (6 field players + 1 goalkeeper)

• a ball designed for grip in water

• a goal at each end of the pool

Players must stay afloat at all times and cannot touch the bottom.

🔄 How the Game Works

• the game starts with a swim-off to gain possession

• teams pass the ball and move around the pool

• players attempt to score by throwing the ball into the goal

• possession changes after a goal or turnover

🏊 Movement in Water

Players move using swimming and a technique called:

• eggbeater kick – keeps players upright and stable

• allows players to pass, shoot and defend effectively

📏 The Pool

• played in a deep swimming pool

• goals float at each end

• marked playing area

Learn more here:
Water Polo Pool Size

📜 Basic Rules

• players can only hold the ball with one hand (except goalkeeper)

• no sinking or holding opponents

• fouls result in free throws or exclusions

• players must pass or shoot within a time limit

Learn more here:
Water Polo Rules

🔢 Scoring

• a goal is scored when the ball crosses the goal line

• each goal = 1 point

• the team with the most goals wins

Learn more here:
Water Polo Scoring

🤽 Equipment

• water polo ball

• goals and caps

• swimwear

Learn more here:
Water Polo Equipment

📈 Why Water Polo Is Popular

Water polo is popular because it is:

• physically demanding

• fast-paced

• team-oriented

• unique compared to land sports

It combines swimming, strength and strategy.