TICKETS

What is Canoe Polo?

Speed, precision and team spirit on the water: Two teams of five players compete in kayaks in a fast-paced, tactical battle for every goal.

THE BASIC IDEA

Five players per team sit in single-person kayaks and try to get the ball into the opposing team’s goal, which is suspended above the water. Depending on the situation, one of the five players takes on the role of goalkeeper.

PLAYING AREA & GOALS

Playing Area
35 × 23 m
Goal Size
1,5 × 1 m
Goal Height Above Water
2 m
Minimum Water Depth
90 cm
Playing Time

2 × 10 minutes

EQUIPMENT

Kayak

Short & agile, with bumpers at the front & rear

Paddle

For propulsion, ball control & defence

Ball

Easy-to-handle water polo ball for throwing & passing

Helmet & Buoyancy Vest

Required: helmet with face guard and buoyancy vest

RULES AT A GLANCE

01

5-Second Rule: The ball may be controlled for a maximum of five seconds before it must be passed, played, or moved at least one metre away from the player’s body.

02
60-Second Attack: A team must attempt a shot on goal within 60 seconds.
03
Hand & Paddle: The ball may be played with either the hand or the paddle.
04
Physical Contact: The player in possession of the ball may be legally pushed and even capsized – dangerous contact is prohibited.
05
Goalkeeper: One of the five players takes on the role of goalkeeper under their own goal, usually using the paddle to block shots.
06
Penalties: Fouls can result in free throws, penalty shots or personal penalties, leaving the team short-handed.

What makes Canoe Polo special

Canoe polo combines elements of handball, basketball and water polo – all played in a kayak. The game is played five against five, with up to three substitutes per team. Substitutions can be made at any time.

The ball can be played with either the hand or the paddle. Players may even capsize during physical challenges, while the goalkeeper uses their paddle to defend the goal suspended high above the water. A player in possession of the ball may be pushed on the shoulder by an opponent.

Players can be substituted on and off at any time during the match without stopping play – keeping the pace even higher.

Positions

Outfield Player

All five players take on attacking and defensive roles depending on the situation. Quick transitions constantly create new game situations.

Goalkeeper

One of the five players takes on the role of goalkeeper, using their paddle to defend the goal suspended two metres above the water. When their team gains possession, the goalkeeper can rejoin the attack.