Underwater hockey in Australia

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Underwater hockey, also known as Octopush, is a globally recognized sport that has a significant presence in Australia. The sport involves two teams competing to maneuver a puck across the bottom of a swimming pool into the opposing team's goal using a small stick.

History

Underwater hockey was introduced to Australia in the early 1960s. The sport quickly gained popularity, with the first national championships being held in 1975. Since then, Australia has become one of the leading nations in underwater hockey, consistently performing well in international competitions.

Governing Body

The sport is governed by the Australian Underwater Federation (AUF), which oversees the rules, regulations, and organization of competitions at both the national and state levels. The AUF is responsible for promoting the sport, organizing training programs, and ensuring the development of underwater hockey across the country.

Competitions

Australia hosts several major underwater hockey competitions, including the annual National Championships, which attract teams from all over the country. Additionally, Australian teams regularly participate in international tournaments such as the CMAS Underwater Hockey World Championships.

Teams and Clubs

There are numerous underwater hockey clubs across Australia, with the most prominent ones located in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. These clubs offer training sessions, local competitions, and opportunities for players of all skill levels to participate in the sport.

Training and Development

Training programs for underwater hockey in Australia are designed to develop players' skills, fitness, and understanding of the game. Many clubs offer beginner courses, advanced training sessions, and specialized coaching to help players improve their performance. The AUF also runs development programs to identify and nurture young talent.

Notable Achievements

Australia has a strong track record in underwater hockey, with numerous victories in international competitions. The Australian men's and women's teams have both won multiple gold medals at the CMAS Underwater Hockey World Championships, cementing their status as world leaders in the sport.

Related Pages

• Underwater hockey
• Australian Underwater Federation
• CMAS Underwater Hockey World Championships
• Sydney
• Melbourne
• Brisbane
• Perth

See Also

• List of underwater sports
• History of underwater hockey
• Underwater sports in Australia