Water Polo

Water polo is a fun team sport played in a deep pool. Two teams of seven players try to throw a ball into the other team's goal. Players cannot touch the bottom of the pool. They must tread water the whole game. Water polo takes strong swimming skills and teamwork.

Playing in the Pool

Each team has six field players and one goalie. Only the goalie can use two hands on the ball. Other players hold the ball with one hand. Players pass the ball by throwing it to teammates. The game has four parts, and the team with the most goals wins.

Skills Needed

Water polo players must be great swimmers. They use a special kick called the eggbeater to stay high in the water. Their arms get tired from throwing the heavy ball. Games are tough, and players wear caps to protect their ears. Water polo has been in the Olympics since 1900.

Fun Facts

• A water polo game is four periods long.
• The ball is yellow and bigger than a soccer ball.
• Water polo began in England and Scotland in the 1800s.

Did You Know?

Water polo players swim about two miles during one full game without ever touching the bottom.