Water polo is a competitive water-based team sport played between two teams of seven players, consisting of six field players and one goalkeeper on each side. The main objective is to score goals by throwing the ball into the opponent's goal. The game is played over four quarters, with the team scoring more goals declared the winner. The sport originated in 19th-century Scotland and was developed by William Wilson, who crafted the first official rules. Initially known as "water rugby," it later adopted the name "water polo" based on the English pronunciation of the Balti word "pulu," meaning ball.
Water polo is governed internationally by World Aquatics and features prominently in competitions, including the Summer Olympics, where it has been a men's event since 1900 and a women’s event since 2000. The sport has distinct rules regarding player positions and movement. The field players occupy offensive or defensive roles, such as wings, drivers, and centre forward, while the goalkeeper is the primary defence against opponent shots. Each player is required to tread water continuously, using techniques like the "eggbeater" kick to remain afloat and agile.
The game is highly tactical, with offensive plays typically arranged in formations like the 3-3 or "umbrella," designed to create scoring opportunities. Defensively, teams employ strategies such as man-to-man marking or zonal defence, which sometimes include a drop defence for extra coverage. The goalkeeper has specific privileges within the five-metre area, including using two hands to block shots and punching the ball with a clenched fist.
A unique aspect of water polo is the “man-up” situation, which occurs when a player is excluded from play for a foul, creating a temporary advantage for the attacking team. Common techniques include passing, shooting, and setting up plays at the two-metre line, known as the "hole," where the centre forward operates.
Water polo requires specific equipment, including a waterproof ball, numbered caps with ear protection, and goals positioned at each end of the pool. Standard swimwear is also crucial, with players often wearing tightly fitted suits to reduce the risk of grabbing. Injuries are frequent, including to the head and shoulders, due to the sport's physical nature.
Major tournaments include the FINA World Championships, the FINA World Cup, and the European Championships, alongside professional leagues in Europe. Variants such as inner-tube water polo, surf polo, and canoe polo provide alternative ways to play. Water polo’s mix of swimming skill, physical endurance, and tactical gameplay has made it a widely recognised and enduring sport globally.
Water polo has several variations, each with specific rules and styles suited for different players and settings. Here are the main types:
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