Do you love water and want to become a stronger swimmer?
Do you like being part of a team?
You may want to consider diving into water polo.
Water polo began as a sport sometime in the 19th century in England, although the early versions of the activity bear little resemblance to the modern-day version played today.
It is believed that British holiday resort owners invented this rather strange pastime during the mid-1800s. The first games were played on nearby rivers and lakes, and the game’s passing similarity to horseback polo gave it the name “water polo.”
In 1888, water polo was introduced into the United States by English swimming instructor John Robinson. The game featured the old rugby style of play which was much like gridiron football in the water. “American style” water polo became very popular and by the late 1890s was played in such venues as Boston’s Mechanics Hall and Madison Square Garden.
Over the years the game evolved to more of a soccer style in which an opponent could only make contact if a player held the ball. In addition, the evolution of swimming changed the game from brute strength underwater to one of passing and speed above the surface.
It was one of the original sports featured at the first ever modern Olympic Games.
A very dynamic team game, it requires all participants to have a high level of fitness as well as a large degree of stamina. Featuring fast and furious action, it is an exciting game both to play and to watch.
There are seven players per side in the pool, six field players and one goalkeeper.
Games are played in four quarters with each quarter lasting for eight minutes with a two minute break between quarters. Players use a combination of swimming, treading water, throwing, catching and shooting throughout the game in an attempt to beat the opposition team
Like box lacrosse and basketball a team may only have possession of the ball for up to 30 seconds without shooting for a goal, but if a shot is taken and the ball rebounds, the shot clock is reset and the 30 seconds begins again.
Players are only permitted to use one hand to hold the ball; apart from the goalie who can use two hands when within five meters of their own goal.
Players advance the ball upfield by swimming with the ball in front of them using a front crawl or by passing to teammates.
Players are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool and players tread water or swim for the entire match.
Swimming, throwing, catching, treading, blocking, passing and shooting and scrimmaging are all part of the game.
Playing and practicing water polo will improve swim skills, cardiovascular fitness, eye/hand coordination and water polo swim techniques that have the potential to enhance and save lives. Skills learned by playing water polo contribute to advancing swim levels.
“Playing water polo has enabled me to complete all of my swim levels and I am now enrolling in the lifeguard training,” said Saskatoon Water Polo Club athlete, Sierra Hamel .
Interest has continued to grow as the Saskatoon Pirates have grown from 16 members (pre-covid) to 52 and the club is finishing up jam-packed autumn and winter sessions. Club members include athletes from Saskatoon, Corman Park, Warman, Martensville and the Aberdeen area.
Participation in the sport provides an incredible opportunity to advance swimming and water polo skills,gain strength and endurance, make friends and have fun.
“The lifelong swimming skills our children gain in water polo give us greater comfort when they are in and around water at pools and lakes,” said Fern Boutin. “In addition, they are able to obtain the benefits that a team sport provides. We notice their fitness gained and maintained in water polo is good for their overall physical, mental and social health and their physical fitness and skills are transferable to many other sports.”
The club continues to work to raise awareness of the sport of water polo and all that it has to offer to Saskatoon and the surrounding area.
Developmental, recreation and competitive programs are available for youth aged 7 to 18. Different levels of practice available for various ages and abilities. The Saskatoon Water Polo Club offers programs for a range of skills.
“This is ideal for families because all the siblings swim at the same time,” said Club President Jen Boutin.
“Another great thing I have noticed as a parent,” said Boutin. “Because our club member practice times tend to be a bit later in the day, my 4 kids (ages 9-14) have been able to participate in school extra curricular activities and other organized art and sport programs.”
If you want to learn what the excitement is about, the Pirates will be hosting the Saskatchewan Water Polo Championship on March 26 and 27 at the Shaw Centre in Saskatoon. To reserve your spot for the Fall 2022 session or for information, contact waterpolosaskatoon@gmail.com.