Underwater Sports – Discover Underwater Hockey

Ever wondered what it feels like to play hockey without ever leaving the water? Underwater hockey (also called octopush) lets you combine the speed of field hockey with the challenge of holding your breath. It’s a cheap, low‑impact sport that you can try in any standard pool.

How the Game Works

The game takes place in a shallow pool, usually 1.5 to 2 metres deep. Two teams of six players each use small wooden or plastic sticks to push a 3‑pound puck along the pool floor. The goal is simple: get the puck into the opponent’s net, which sits at the bottom of the pool. Because you’re underwater, you’ll wear fins, a mask, and a snorkel. The fins give you the power to glide quickly, while the snorkel lets you breathe without lifting your head.

Each match is split into three periods, typically five minutes long. Turns are fast, and you’ll be sprinting on the floor, flipping the puck, and resurfacing for air in a matter of seconds. The sport demands good breath‑holding, strong core muscles, and quick decision‑making. It’s also a great way to build teamwork – you can’t score a goal if you’re not in sync with your teammates.

Getting Started with Underwater Hockey

If you’re interested, the first step is getting the right gear. You’ll need:

• Swim fins – the shorter the better for rapid changes of direction.
• A snug mask – it should stay secure while you make sudden moves.
• A snorkel – a simple, low‑profile one works fine.A water‑proof glove (optional) – it helps grip the stick.
• A lightweight stick – most clubs provide them, but you can buy one for $10‑$15.

Next, find a local pool that offers underwater hockey sessions. At Lipson Lions Hockey Club we run beginner clinics every Thursday evening. No experience is needed; we start with basic breath‑holding drills, then move on to puck handling and simple game scenarios.

Practice is key. Try the “circle drill”: form a circle with teammates, pass the puck around while staying underwater, and focus on smooth movements. This builds confidence and teaches you how to read the flow of the game without looking up.

Safety comes first. Always warm up on the deck, stretch your legs and ankles, and never push yourself to hold your breath longer than you’re comfortable with. The sport is low‑impact on joints, but the quick bursts can be demanding, so listen to your body.

Once you feel comfortable with the basics, jump into a full match. The excitement of a quick turnover, the surge of pushing the puck toward the net, and the roar of teammates cheering you on make underwater hockey addictive. It’s also a fantastic workout – you burn calories, improve cardio, and work every major muscle group while having fun.

Ready to give it a try? Grab a pair of fins, meet us at the pool, and experience the thrill of a sport that’s still hidden from most people. Underwater hockey is fast, furious, and surprisingly easy to start. See you below the surface!