Underwater football

Students at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center playing underwater football

Underwater football is a team sport played in a swimming pool, where players attempt to maneuver a negatively buoyant ball across the pool to score in the opposing team's goal. The game combines elements of water polo, rugby, and soccer, and is played entirely underwater.

History

Underwater football was developed in the 1960s by students at the University of Manitoba in Canada. The sport was initially created as a training exercise for scuba diving students to improve their underwater skills and breath-holding capabilities. Over time, it evolved into a competitive sport with organized teams and matches.

Rules

The game is played with two teams, each consisting of six players. The objective is to score goals by placing the ball into the opposing team's goal, which is located at the bottom of the pool. The ball used is typically a water polo ball filled with saltwater to make it negatively buoyant.

Players are not allowed to use any breathing apparatus and must hold their breath while playing. The game is played in two halves, each lasting 10 to 15 minutes, with a short break in between. Players can use any part of their body to move the ball, but they cannot use any equipment to assist them.

Equipment

The primary equipment used in underwater football includes a standard swimming pool, a negatively buoyant ball, and goals placed at each end of the pool. Players typically wear swim fins, snorkels, and diving masks to enhance their underwater mobility and vision.

Strategy

Underwater football requires a combination of physical endurance, breath control, and teamwork. Players must be adept at holding their breath for extended periods while coordinating with teammates to pass the ball and defend against opponents. Effective communication and strategic positioning are crucial for success in the game.

Popularity

While not as widely known as other underwater sports like underwater hockey or underwater rugby, underwater football has a dedicated following, particularly in regions with strong diving communities. It is often played as a recreational activity in diving clubs and military training centers.

Related pages

• Underwater hockey
• Underwater rugby
• Water polo
• Scuba diving

References

• "Underwater Football: A Unique Sport," Diving Magazine, 2015.
• "The History of Underwater Football," University of Manitoba Archives, 2010.