The basic regulations to play underwater hockey (which is often called Octopush) intertwine the disciplines and fundamentals of ice hockey with the physical applications of swimming.
RULES FOR PLAYING HOCKEY UNDERWATER
The non-contact sport of underwater hockey is a fast moving game which quickly develops your swim skills and builds your free diving capabilities because it is played on the bottom of a swimming pool.
Even though the sport originated from America, underwater hockey was in fact invented by the British Navy in the 1950s.
They developed a variant of field hockey rules which is played while submerged underwater as a way to keep their divers fit and improve their movement in sub-aquatic activities.
The modern and dynamic version creates a competitive challenge for its participants who are mostly in Asian and South American countries including Columbia, Brazil, China, Japan, India, and Australia.
Underwater Hockey Regulations
Aim of the playing Underwater Hockey Game
The aim of underwater hockey is to hit the puck into your opponent’s goal.
The game is played below the surface with breaks in play allowed for a goal or a foul.
Pool Size
The swimming pool dimensions are usually around 25 meters long, 12 meters wide, and 2 meters deep.
Ropes or lead weights can be used as markings for a goal.
Underwater Octopush Equipment
Underwater hockey octopush equipment includes:
The stick (about 12 inches long made of painted wood).
A swimming mask (not goggles).
A snorkel tube.
Ear protectors.
Diving fins.
Swimsuit.
Gloves (latex for protection).
Puck (weighing 3lb and made of plastic coated lead) .
Underwater Hockey Players
An underwater hockey team consists of 10 players from a squad of 12.
Even though teams have formations, players generally cover zones rather than having positions.
Only 6 players may be submerged in the water at any one time and the positions are usually a combination of a center, wings, halfbacks, and a wingback.