Have you ever watched a water polo match and wondered how the players manage to stay afloat while passing and shooting the ball? It’s no secret that water polo is a physically demanding sport that requires a unique set of skills, including swimming underwater. But can you really swim underwater in water polo? The short answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of this technique.
Whether you’re a seasoned water polo player or just a curious spectator, get ready to dive into the world of underwater swimming in water polo.
Swimming Underwater in Water polo
Swimming underwater is a crucial part of water polo, and it’s a skill that can give players a significant advantage in the game. In fact, according to the official rules of the sport, players are allowed to swim underwater for a maximum of 15 meters or until they surface, whichever comes first.
But swimming underwater in water polo isn’t just about going as far as possible. It’s also about using this technique strategically to outmanoeuvre your opponents and gain an advantage on the field.
For example, players can use underwater swimming to avoid defenders, get into a better position to receive a pass, or surprise the goalkeeper with a sudden shot on goal.
To swim underwater in water polo, players need to have excellent breath control and be able to hold their breath for extended periods. They also need to have strong swimming skills and be able to move quickly and efficiently through the water.
Additionally, players must be aware of the rules surrounding underwater swimming, such as the maximum distance allowed and the requirement to surface before shooting on goal.
Swimming in Water Polo
The Importance of Swimming in Water Polo
Swimming is an essential skill in water polo and is required to move around the pool, get into position, and defend or attack the goal.
Players must be able to swim quickly and efficiently while maintaining control of the ball. A player who cannot swim effectively will struggle to keep up with the pace of the game and may become a liability to their team.
Basic Swimming Techniques in Water Polo
Players use a technique called the eggbeater to tread water efficiently. This technique involves alternating the legs in a circular motion while keeping the upper body as still as possible. It enables the player to sustain their position in the water while freeing their arms to pass, shoot, or defend.
Another essential skill is the ability to swim while dribbling the ball. Players must use one hand to control the ball while swimming with the other hand. This requires coordination and practice to master, but it is critical for advancing the ball up the pool and creating scoring opportunities.
Advanced Swimming Techniques in Water Polo
Experienced players may use more advanced swimming techniques to gain an advantage over their opponents. One such technique is the underwater swim.
Although it is technically illegal to swim underwater in water polo, some players may use it to surprise their opponents and gain an advantage. However, this technique is risky and can result in a turnover if the player is caught by the referees.
Another advanced technique is the sprint. Players can use a sprint to quickly move up the pool and create a scoring opportunity.
To execute a sprint, the player must swim as fast as possible while maintaining control of the ball. This requires a high level of fitness and skill.
Rules and Regulations Regarding Underwater Swimming in Water Polo
According to water polo regulations, players can move the ball by throwing it to a teammate or swimming with it in front of them. However, players are not allowed to push the ball underwater to prevent an opponent from accessing it, nor can they push or hold an opposing player unless that player is holding the ball.
Despite this rule, many water polo players hold, grab, pull, or even hit an opposing team member underwater to gain an advantage.
However, referees are vigilant in monitoring underwater activity and will quickly call a foul if they suspect any illegal underwater activity.
According to the rules of water polo, a player can only hold their breath for a maximum of 20 seconds, after which they must surface for air. If a player is caught holding their breath for longer than 20 seconds, they will be penalized with a foul.
Benefits of Underwater Swimming in Water Polo
While underwater swimming is technically illegal in water polo, it can provide certain benefits to players who are skilled in this technique. Underwater swimming can provide players with a tactical advantage by allowing them to surprise their opponents and gain a better position for a shot or pass. Additionally, underwater swimming can improve a player’s overall fitness and endurance, as it requires a great deal of strength and stamina to swim underwater for extended periods of time.
Techniques for Underwater Swimming in Water Polo
Underwater swimming in water polo requires a unique set of skills and techniques. Players must be able to swim quickly and efficiently underwater while maintaining their balance and control.
One technique commonly used in underwater swimming is the dolphin kick, which involves undulating the body in a wave-like motion to propel oneself forward.
Another technique is the breaststroke pull, which involves pulling oneself through the water using a breaststroke motion. Players can also use equipment such as fins and snorkels to improve their underwater swimming abilities.
Fins can provide additional propulsion, while snorkels can allow players to breathe more easily while swimming underwater.
Overall, while underwater swimming is technically illegal in water polo, it can provide certain benefits to skilled players who are able to use this technique effectively.
However, players should always be aware of the rules and regulations regarding underwater activity and should never engage in any illegal activity during a game.
Conclusion
Water polo is a sport that requires players to be skilled swimmers and able to navigate the water with ease. While players are allowed to swim underwater, it is not a common tactic used in the game.
In fact, players are more effective when they stay at the surface of the water, where they can see and react to the game more easily.
Swimming underwater can be advantageous in certain situations, such as when a player is trying to evade an opponent or get into a better position to score. However, going underwater with the ball is not allowed and will result in a turnover.
Despite the fact that players are allowed to grab, hold, and pull opponents underwater, it is technically illegal and can result in a foul. It is also important to note that underwater visibility can be poor, which can make it difficult for players to see and react to what is happening in the game.
Overall, while swimming underwater is allowed in water polo, it is not a strategy that is commonly used. Players are more effective when they stay at the surface of the water, where they can see and react to the game more easily.
