Sports
The origins and rules of underwater hockey as a competitive sport
Did you know? Underwater hockey, also known as “Octopush,” first made waves in 1954 when it was invented by Alan Blake, a founder of the Southsea Sub-Aqua Club in England.
The sport was initially designed to keep club members engaged and fit during the colder months when open-water diving was less appealing.
Unlike traditional hockey played on ice or grass, underwater hockey takes place at the bottom of a swimming pool.
Players, equipped with snorkels, fins, and short sticks, aim to maneuver a puck into the opposing team’s goal.
The puck itself is quite hefty, weighing around 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs) to ensure it stays submerged.
Teams consist of six players each, and since the game is played underwater, communication becomes a unique challenge, adding to the excitement and strategy of the sport.
Today, underwater hockey is played worldwide, with international tournaments bringing together players who share a passion for this dynamic and unusual sport.
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