Team play and timing

UWH is played in a pool that is preferably two or more meters deep. A match is played between two teams of ten players max (six in the water at any given time). Each team tries to score points by playing the lead puck about and getting it in the goal (a two meter long "sink"). Logically, team play is very important and the third dimension that is added to this sport (you can swim over and under other players!) really adds a whole dimension to underwaterhockey, literally!

Equipment

An often-asked question is: 'Do you use scuba gear?' The answer is simple: no. The sport is played using a divemask, snorkel, fins, protective glove, and a short stick (most often made of wood). Logically, each lady or gentleman is required to wear a bathing suit :). The photos below give you a good indication of the sport, do not miss the (Dutch) movie at the bottom of this page! [movie]

Tactics

Applying the right strategy makes the difference in any team sport. Underwater hockey is no exception to this rule, perhaps it requires an even larger team effort since a team is required to have as many players in position (i.e. at or near the bottom of the pool) as possible during the entire match. During a match two referees are in the water, indicating foul play to a third referee on dry land. The latter referee then signals the players using an underwater signal (e.g. metal stick).

UWH and me

Currently, I practice UWH at ZPV Piranha. Our team is consists of about 20 people, most are found on the photos below. I play in the Dutch competition with the Heiduikers in the 'hoofdklasse' as I have done before in the past. When I was finishing my Master studies I learned a great deal of the very experienced players there (and I made some good friends as well). Search the internet for more information on this very cool sport! [Piranha | Heiduikers | UWH @ Google]