1. Master the Technique
When dribbling in water polo, the ball remains directly in front of the player. They players use a shortened version of the front or back crawl to advance the ball. This technique is very useful when it is not possible to pass the ball through the air to another player. It is for short distances.
2. Pay Attention to Body Position
Body position of the player dribbling the ball is critical to the ability to retain the ball. In water polo, eggbeater stroke keeps the body upright in the water. However this stroke moves the player back and forth at high speed, surprising the opposing player. To move quickly backward, without letting go of the ball, angle your legs closer to the surface of the water in front of you. This action propels your body backwards. To move your body forwards, shift your position in the water forward, so that momentum pushes you forward. Be careful not to kick the opposing player. The referee looks for intentionally kicking another player and gives a brutality penalty if they see it. Your team will lose you for four minutes.
3. No Hand Switching
Passes in water polo are completed using same hand that catches the ball. If you dribble the ball in water polo, you can pick it up with the opposite hand and throw it. This rule is to prevent players from switching the ball in your hands. Players must be trained to complete the dribble maneuver carefully to avoid foul calls.
4. Protecting the Ball
When dribbling, the opposing team players are actively trying to get the ball from you. Protect the ball at all costs. The attacking team holds, blocks or pulls the person with the ball in an attempt to secure it. Position yourself in the water with a strong body position to fend off these attacks. Upper body strength increases your chance of defending the ball properly. The longer your team has the ball, the better the opportunity to shoot.
5. Water Polo Strategy
Water polo is a game of strategy. Dribbling is one of two methods used to pass the ball to other players. Dribbling must be used with care, as it is easier for the ball to be stolen by the other team in this position. A clearly defined strategy for the use of dribbling increases teams success in water polo competition.
Member Comments