5 Things You Need to Know About Canoe Polo

1. With a Paddle

Canoe polo, also called kayak polo, is similar to traditional water polo except all the players are seated in kayaks. Canoe polo is played either in a swimming pool or in an outdoor body of water. If the game is played in a river, lake or pond, then a playing area is defined by markers similar to those used for swimming pool lanes. Four field players and a goalie are in the water for each team during game play. Like many other team sports, the object of the game is to score more goals than the opponent by shooting balls into a net.

2. Water Laws

Canoe polo players pass the ball with their hands, and some use of the paddles to move the ball is also allowed. A player can hold onto the ball for only five seconds before passing, shooting or dribbling it. To dribble the ball, the player tosses the ball slightly to the front or side of the kayak and paddles onto it. Players can use their kayaks to shield the ball, and pushing an opponent's shoulder or back is allowed. The players wear helmets with face masks to protect themselves from opponents' paddles. Similar to soccer laws, a player who participates in a dangerous play could be ejected from the game with a red card. Substitutions can be made at any time without stopping play or notifying the referees.

3. All Eyes on Deck

Two referees keep control of the game on foot. They each take a position on a sideline and monitor the play from those vantage points. These referees are assisted by two additional line referees, who watch the goal lines. Some leagues also use a scorekeeper, although that job can be performed by one of the other referees. A timekeeper keeps track of game time and penalties.

4. Canoe Polo by Numbers

A canoe polo game is 20 minutes long, split into two 10 minute halves. The teams switch sides at halftime. The playing field is typically 35 meters by 23 meters, and the goal is 1 meter by 1.5 meters. The goal, which consists of a rectangular frame and a net, is suspended 2 meters above the water. The goalie is allowed to use longer paddles than field players.

5. Put It Into Play

A canoe polo game is started with both teams lined up on their individual goal lines. A referee throws the ball into the center of the field and the teams sprint onto it. Whichever player first reaches the ball takes possession of it. Game play is restarted with sideline throws if the ball travels out of bounds. Teams are awarded free shots and penalty shots following a foul.