BALL CONTROL
MOVEMENT IN EVERY DIRECTION
Because the ball sinks, passing, spacing and possession develop at different depths. A defender may be above, below or alongside the ball carrier.
DISCOVER THE GAME
WHAT IS
UNDERWATER RUGBY?
Underwater Rugby is a team sport that brings together swimming, breath management, contact and three-dimensional movement beneath the surface of a pool.
THE QUICK VIEW
UWR IN 60 SECONDS
Two teams try to place a sinking ball in the other team’s basket on the pool floor. Play moves through the whole depth of the pool. Players use fins, masks and snorkels; scuba equipment is not part of the game.
TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTIONS
BREATH, RECOVER, REJOIN
Players make short, focused efforts and surface when needed. Structured substitutions and support from teammates keep the team organised as play continues.
TEAM PLAY
PASS, POSITION, COORDINATE
Effective attacks depend on timing and shared positioning. Each pass can open a route to the basket or create a better defensive shape.
SCORING
REACH THE BASKET
A goal is awarded when the ball is completely placed in the opponent’s basket. Officials apply the current competition rules when judging play and goals.
THE BASICS
WHAT MAKES UP THE GAME?
The objective
Move the negatively buoyant ball into the opposing team’s basket on the pool floor.
Teams
Six players from each team are in the water at once; organised substitutions help keep the game moving.
Equipment
Players use a mask, snorkel, fins, protective cap and swimwear designed for the game.
Playing area
The full depth of the pool is in play, from the surface to the bottom.
GAME FLOW
HOW A PHASE OF PLAY UNFOLDS
01
Start
Teams begin at their own side of the pool, then race to contest the ball at the centre.
02
Attack and defend
The ball is played underwater. Teams pass, create space and protect their own basket.
03
Score
A goal is scored when the ball is completely placed in the opponent’s basket.
WHY UWR IS DIFFERENT
ONE GAME, A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE
Depth, pace and collective decision-making meet in the same pool.
Three-dimensional play
Attacks can develop at the surface, through mid-water or along the pool floor.
Fast decisions
Short, intense actions reward clear choices, quick passing and controlled changes of direction.
Team coordination
Positioning and support matter as much as individual speed or strength.
Breath management
Players choose when to surface, recover and rejoin the next phase of play.
Underwater communication
Movement, eye contact and shared habits replace spoken calls below the surface.
A sport with many roles
Different playing styles and roles contribute to a coordinated team performance.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
WHAT PLAYERS USE
Mask
Helps players see the ball, teammates and the pool environment underwater.
Snorkel
Used at the surface for breathing; event requirements can vary.
Fins
Support acceleration, turning, diving and movement through the water.
Protective cap
Helps identify teams and offers ear protection during play.
Underwater Rugby ball
Filled so that it sinks, allowing passes and contests below the surface.
Basket
The scoring target rests on the pool floor at each end.
SAFETY AND SUPERVISION
LEARN IN A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT
Underwater Rugby should be learned with qualified supervision, a suitable pool and clear team procedures. New players build confidence through swimming, fin use and game awareness at their own pace. This page is an introduction, not a substitute for the current rules, organiser instructions or coaching guidance.
YOUR NEXT STEP
READY TO EXPLORE FURTHER?
Learn what to expect at your first session, then find the right preparation for your next step.