How to Play Underwater Rugby

If you're ready for a physical challenge and also ready to have some fun, learn how to play underwater rugby. Originating in Germany in 1961, underwater rugby officially became a sport in 1973. The first world championship was played in 1980. Unlike traditional rugby on land, underwater rugby is a three-dimensional sport. Grab some friends, find a pool and learn how to play underwater rugby.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Assemble two teams of six players each, along with five substitute players for each team. Also have three people act as referees, two in the water and one poolside.
2. Equip each team with fins, snorkels, masks and ear protectors. Use two steel baskets as goals, one for each team set at the bottom of the pool on either end.
3. Place a ball slightly larger than a softball filled with saltwater into the bottom center of the pool. Have the referee blow a whistle to start play. Each team of 12 players dives into the pool. The first to reach the ball starts play.
4. Attempt to get the ball into the opposing team's basket to score a goal. The ball may be passed between players, side-to-side or up-and-down, but cannot leave the water. Getting the ball past the goalie and into the basket results in a score.
5. Substitute players as needed while play is going on. Underwater rugby is a fast-paced game, extremely challenging and players need frequent breaks. Rotate players as needed.
6. Play two 15 minute halves. Take a four minute half-time break. The team scoring the most goals by the end of the second 15 minute half is the winner.

Tips & Warnings

• The goalie may defend the goal but cannot hold the basket or put his body into the basket to prevent a score. This will result in a penalty.
• Penalties are enforced for two minutes. The player causing the infraction must sit out for those two minutes and his team will play short handed during that time.
• Underwater rugby is played at a depth of 3.5 meters to 5 meters and 8 to 12 meters long and wide.
• It is advisable to have players stay under the water playing in one-minute intervals as underwater rugby can be exhausting.
• Pulling on or removing an opposing player's mask, snorkel, fins or swimsuit results in a penalty.