Canoe Polo, called kayak polo in some countries, is a ball sport on water, in a “field”, for two teams of 5 players (plus 1,2 or 3 subs) for two 10 minute halves,  Teams play  to get the ball into their own  goal raised about 2 metres above the water.

Each player paddles a ‘polo bat’ –3 metres long, specially designed, low volume, with protective bumpers at front and back.  Players wear a protective buoyancy vest, a helmet with a faceguard and a fitted ‘skirt’/deck for keeping water out of the boat.

Teams playing recreationally in Australia are gender mixed or gender specific depending on levels and reasons for ‘comps’. Beginner grades are now using a mix of small boats and sit-on-tops for encouraging young players. The canoe polo community is both family and elite level sport oriented and is run by volunteers.

Players in possession of the ball can be ‘tackled’ by kayaks, ‘hand tackled’ on the shoulder and capsized (after beginner levels). Teams pass the ball by throwing or flicking with paddles and use paddles are to intercept passes and block shots at goal.

The sport has World Championships every 2 years, internationally organized by the Canoe Polo committee of the International Canoe Federation.

We are keen to promote development of canoe polo in SA regional districts.

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 Paddle 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.

Contact Canoe Polo SA

Canoe Polo Schools Program

Paddle 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).
Paddle SA Provides coaches and equipment for up to 20 students
4 sessions (approx 1 – 2 hours duration each).
Cost: Each student must join Paddle 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 Paddle SA on 8240 3294.
Individual students can become part of the talent identification & coaching by contacting Paddle 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

Paddle SA Polo Technical Committee
Anthea Courtney – Secretary
Phone: 0417 868 066
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

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