If you’ve ever watched a water polo game, you may have wondered what the players are called. Water polo is a team sport played in water by two teams, each comprising seven players. Each player has a specific position and role on the team, and they are collectively referred to as “water polo players.”
Water polo players are known for their athleticism, endurance, and skill in the water. They must be able to swim quickly and efficiently, as well as tread water for extended periods of time.
Additionally, they must be able to pass and shoot the ball accurately while being defended by the opposing team. Each player has a specific position and role on the team, and they work together to score goals and defend their own goal.
So, what are water polo players called? Well, depending on their position, they may be referred to as a center, driver, defender, or goalkeeper.
Each position has specific responsibilities and requires a unique set of skills. In the following sections, we will explore each position in more detail and provide a better understanding of what water polo players are called and what they do on the field.
Water Polo Player Positions
If you want to play water polo, it’s important to understand the different positions that players take on the field. There are two main types of positions in water polo: goalkeeper and field players. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper is the only player on the team who is allowed to use their hands to touch the ball. They are responsible for defending the goal and preventing the opposing team from scoring.
The goalkeeper must be able to tread water for extended periods of time and have excellent hand-eye coordination to block shots. They also need to be able to throw the ball accurately to their teammates to start a counterattack.
Field Players
Field players are responsible for both offense and defense. There are seven positions that field players can take:
| Position | Name |
| 1 | Wing |
| 2 | Driver |
| 3 | Point |
| 4 | Center Forward |
| 5 | Center Back |
| 6 | Driver |
| 7 | Wing |
The positions are numbered 1 through 7, and each player has a specific role to play. The wing players are responsible for covering the sides of the pool and are often the fastest swimmers on the team.
The drivers are responsible for moving the ball around the pool and setting up scoring opportunities. The point position is usually taken by a strong shooter who can score from long range.
The center forward is the primary scorer on the team and is responsible for setting up plays and scoring goals. The center back is responsible for defending against the opposing team’s center forward.
Players who possess expertise in all positions of offense or defense are referred to as utility players. Although not always the case, utility players are often substitutes.
Field Player Roles
Water polo is a team sport that necessitates seven players on each team. Each player has a specific role and responsibility on the team. Here are the four main field player roles:
Driver
The driver is responsible for moving the ball up the pool and creating opportunities for shots on goal. They are typically fast swimmers and skilled at passing and shooting. Drivers play on the left and right sides of the pool and are often the first line of offense.
Center
The center is the most important offensive player and is responsible for scoring goals. They play in the center of the pool and are usually the tallest and strongest player on the team. Centers use their size and strength to position themselves in front of the goal and receive passes from their teammates.
Wing
The wing players are responsible for supporting the drivers and the center. They play on the left and right sides of the pool and are often the second line of offense. Wing players are usually fast swimmers and skilled at passing and shooting.
Hole Set
The hole set, also known as the center forward, is responsible for playing in the center of the pool and creating opportunities for shots on goal. They are typically the best all-around player on the team and have strong offensive and defensive skills. Hole sets use their size and strength to position themselves in front of the goal and receive passes from their teammates.
Each field player role requires specific skills, and it is important for each player to understand their role and responsibility on the team. By working together and executing their roles effectively, water polo teams can achieve success in the pool.
Conclusion
Now that you know what water polo players are called, you can better understand the game and follow along with the action. Each player has a specific role and position on the team, and understanding these positions can help you appreciate the strategy and teamwork involved in the sport.
Water polo is a physically demanding sport that requires strength, endurance, and agility. Players must be able to tread water for extended periods of time while also swimming quickly and maneuvering the ball. The sport also requires mental toughness and quick thinking, as players must make split-second decisions and anticipate the movements of their opponents.
Whether you are a fan of water polo or just learning about the sport, understanding the positions and roles of the players can enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the game.
So next time you watch a water polo match, keep an eye out for the center forward, point, wings, and drivers, and see if you can spot the different strategies and tactics employed by each team.
