What we're about
We invite you to try Underwater Hockey! A fun and competitive sport for people of all ages and genders. Beginners are always welcome. No experience is required.
HOW DO YOU PLAY?
Underwater hockey is a fast moving game of six on six that is played on the bottom of a swimming pool. Players wear fins, a mask, a snorkel, a protective glove and headgear (the same kind as for water polo). The stick is short, approximately 1 foot long, and made of wood or plastic composite. The puck is heavy (around 3 lb.) and coated with a protective layer of hard plastic. The goals are 3 meters (10’) long. Play and strategy is similar to soccer or ice hockey except that the playing surface is at the bottom of a pool. The rules are "non-contact" and players generally cover zones around the puck. Success (scoring) ultimately depends on teamwork, since no single person can hold their breath forever. On average, each player is underwater about 10 seconds at a time, and almost never more than 20 seconds. Play is fast and exciting - you go at it hard while holding your breath. The sport offers great cross-training for scuba divers, runners, swimmers, and bikers. Plus, because it's non-contact and underwater, people of different sizes and genders play on an equal field. There is no checking and certainly no fighting, unlike ice hockey. Since no one can hold their breath forever, there is no goalie. Instead we have forwards and backs and play various formations.
WHAT DO I BRING?
If you have snorkeling gear (mask, fins and snorkel) that you'd like to use, feel free to bring it; but, we have equipment for you to borrow at the pool as well.
All you really need is:
- a swimsuit
- a towel
Optionally you may want to bring:
- a lock to lock your belongings in one of the available lockers
- gym socks or neoprene socks for added foot protection when wearing the fins
- shampoo
Check out our club using the Facebook and website links below and feel free to watch the great introductory video from usauwh.com!
See You on the Bottom!