Canoe Polo
Canoe Polo also called kayak polo in some countries is a competitive ball sport played on water, in a defined “field”, between two teams of 5 players, each in a kayak. The object of the game is to get the ball into the opponent’s goal, the team scoring the most goals in a set time being the winner.
Each player paddles a specially designed kayak called a ‘polo bat’ that is up to 3 metres long that is low volume and has protective bumpers at the front and back. Players wear a protective buoyancy vest and helmet with faceguard. Players in possession of the ball can be ‘tackled’ by the opposition’s kayak, or ‘hand tackled’ on the shoulder and capsized in the more advanced levels. The ball is passed hand to hand as in water polo. Paddles can be used to intercept passes and block shots at goal.
The game is played in many countries on all continents, for recreation and serious sport. The sport has World Championships every 2 years. Internationally the sport is organized by the Canoe Polo committee of the International Canoe Federation, as one of the disciplines of the sport of canoeing.
Canoe Polo event information
ICF Canoe Polo World Championship July 28 – 5 Aug
2018 January 27/28 Australia Day Canoe Polo
2018 March 31 – 2 April Australian Canoe Polo Championships
Canoe Polo games restart this Sunday at Westminster Pool
Batchat: June
How to get into Canoe Polo
Would you like to try Canoe Polo or train regularly?
Then the Canoe Polo Development Squad is the thing for you. First time or experienced paddlers welcome.
Each Sunday morning 9 – 11 am includes 2 hours coaching and games
There is a trial 3-month introductory membership to Canoe SA of $35.00 (for people under 18) and $50.00 for Adults which includes insurance.
After the 3-month introductory membership, participants can join a club for an additional fee of approx $35 (children) for the year.
Canoe Polo Schools Program
Canoe SA conducts short introductory programs for secondary school students which include
- Physical Skills
- balance and body co-ordination
- hand-eye co-ordination
- boat control
- paddle control
- ball skills
- Rules – International Canoe Federation rules and local variations for novices
- Game Strategy
What does it involve?
A school with students and teacher who are keen to learn about this fast and exciting sport.
A suitable venue close to your school (swimming pool or venue such as West Lakes or
Patawalonga).
Canoe SA Provides coaches and equipment for up to 20 students
4 sessions (approx 1 – 2 hours duration each).
Cost: Each student must join Canoe SA as a student member (valid for 3 months).Would you like to try Canoe Polo and train regularly?
What does a student or school do to join in?
Schools who have students who are interested to participate can arrange an information session by contacting Canoe SA on 8240 3294.
Individual students can become part of the talent identification & coaching by contacting Canoe SA – 8240 3294.
Where possible each school will need a teacher or parent who will act as a contact or coordinator to ensure interested students get information.
Club and State Canoe Polo Contacts
Canoe SA Polo Technical Committee
Anthea Courtney – Secretary
Phone: 8395 5603
Email: rayandanthea@gmail.com
Adelaide Canoe Club
Frances Goble
Phone: 8449 6602
Email: oxfordantiques@internode.on.net
Northern Districts Canoe Club
Wayne Ferguson
Phone: 0414 389 895
Email: fergun@telstra.com