Underwater Hockey Rules: How To Play Underwater Hockey (Octopush)

In the 1950s, the British Navy conceived Underwater Hockey, or Octopus, to maintain the physical prowess of their divers and enhance efficiency beneath the waves. Its popularity burgeoned in Australia before captivating a global audience, blending elements from ice hockey and swimming into a fiercely contested and physically demanding spectacle.

UNDERWATER HOCKEY

Object of the Game

The primary aim in underwater hockey is skillfully propelling the puck into the adversary's goal. Victory is bestowed upon the team amassing the most goals within the stipulated timeframe. The entire game unfolds submerged, compelling players to remain beneath the surface until a goal is achieved or a referee calls a pause for a goal or foul.

Players & Equipment

A squad comprises 10 players, with a maximum of 6 immersed at any given moment, while the remaining 4 serve as dynamic substitutes, akin to their ice hockey counterparts. Positioned on the pool floor, players manipulate a 3lb puck with a stick affixed to a glove, extending approximately one foot.

Accompanying the stick, players are permitted to don a mask, snorkel, ear protectors, fins, swimsuit, and gloves. Despite the sport's non-contact essence, it can evolve into a robust, physical contest akin to basketball. Mastery in underwater hockey demands years of skill refinement, particularly in breath-holding endurance.

The standard pool dimensions are approximately 25m in length, 12m in width, and 2m in depth. Goals may consist of ropes or lead weights.

Scoring

Goals materialize when a team skillfully maneuvers the puck into the adversary's goal using the stick; any employment of other body parts or instruments results in a foul benefiting the opposing team.

Winning the Game

The game concludes when the designated time elapses, with the triumph bestowed upon the team amassing the highest goal tally. In case of a tie, an additional 15-minute segment ensues until a conclusive winner emerges.

Rules of Underwater Hockey

Team composition adheres to a 10-player format, with 6 players consistently in the pool and the remaining 4 functioning as substitutes. Games transpire across two 15-minute halves, separated by a 5-minute intermission. While players generally cover zones rather than assume fixed positions, strategic formations do factor into play. Teams may adopt offensive and defensive divisions, with occasional midfield player variations. Scoring is exclusively permissible via the stick, prohibiting the use of body parts for puck manipulation. Player contact is restricted unless a player is in possession of the puck.

FAQs Of Underwater Hockey

1. How deep is the typical Underwater Hockey pool?

 - The standard pool depth is around 2 meters.

2. Are there any specific formations in Underwater Hockey?

 - While players generally cover zones, formations do come into play, with variations of midfield players noted.

3. Can players use body parts to assist in moving the puck?

 - No, players are restricted to using the stick in their hands for scoring, and any use of body parts results in a foul.

4. What happens in case of a tie in a game?

 - In the event of a tie, an extra 15 minutes of play is added until a clear winner emerges.

5. How many players are in the water during a game?

 - There are 6 players in the water at all times, with the remaining 4 serving as rolling substitutes. 

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