What is Octopush? Everything You Need to Know About Underwater Hockey
Octopush, also known as underwater hockey, is a dynamic and unique sport that takes the essence of hockey beneath the water’s surface. Played on the pool floor, it demands coordination, agility, and strategic breath control. In this article, we’ll dive into Octopush’s origins, gameplay, rules, equipment, and its rise to popularity around the world.
Quick Overview of Octopush
- Sport: Octopush (Underwater Hockey)
- Key Skills: Breath control, team coordination, underwater maneuverability
- Goal: Push a weighted puck into the opponent’s goal on the pool floor
- Origin: England, 1954
- Governing Body: Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS)
1. What Exactly is Octopush?
In Octopush, teams compete by pushing a puck along the pool floor with small sticks, aiming to score in the opponent’s goal. It’s an intense mix of hockey tactics and diving, creating a thrilling experience that demands speed, skill, and breath control.
2. History and Evolution of Octopush
Originally developed in 1954 by Alan Blake as a winter training sport for divers, Octopush quickly gained traction, moving from a recreational activity to a fully regulated sport. By the 1980s, international competitions had been established, and today, Octopush is popular in over 20 countries and features in world championships under CMAS.
3. The Rules of Octopush
Team Composition: Each team has 10 players, with 6 active players and 4 substitutes rotating frequently due to the underwater intensity.
Game Objective: The game’s aim is to score by pushing a puck into the opponent’s goal area at the bottom of the pool.
Match Length: Octopush games typically last two 15-minute halves.
Scoring: One point per goal, and the team with the highest score at the end wins.
4. Unique Elements of Octopush vs. Traditional Hockey
| Aspect | Octopush | Ice Hockey |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | Pool floor, 6-8 ft deep | Ice rink |
| Stick Length | Short (30 cm/12 inches) | Standard hockey sticks |
| Player Movement | Swimming with fins, breath-holding | Skating |
| Puck Location | Pool bottom | Ice surface |
The underwater component of Octopush forces players to manage their oxygen levels strategically, surfacing between dives to control and pass the puck.
5. Octopush Equipment Essentials
Players use specially designed gear to aid in their underwater maneuvering and protect themselves during the game:
- Octopush Stick: Small (about 12 inches) and brightly colored for visibility
- Puck: Weighted and plastic-coated, designed to stay on the pool floor
- Snorkel, Mask, and Fins: Necessary for diving agility and visibility underwater
- Protective Gear: Gloves and caps with ear protectors
6. How to Play Octopush
For a sport that’s relatively easy to start, Octopush has a fascinating and challenging dynamic. Here’s a breakdown of how it’s played:
- Game Start: The puck is placed at the center of the pool floor, and teams dive simultaneously to start.
- Player Rotation: Due to the need to surface, players work in synchronized bursts, taking turns to dive and engage with the puck.
- Goal Strategy: Players attempt to pass the puck quickly and strategically, aiming to score without staying underwater for too long.
- Defensive Play: Defensive players protect the goal area, intercepting the puck and blocking opponents.
This style of play makes Octopush a test of teamwork, requiring each player to time their movements and communicate while surfacing.
7. Competitive Octopush Worldwide
Although it started in the UK, Octopush is now enjoyed globally, especially in countries with strong underwater sports communities:
- Major Competitions: The CMAS Underwater Hockey World Championships feature the sport’s best talent every two years.
- Popular Regions: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa boast some of the most competitive teams and active local leagues.
- International Appeal: With more underwater hockey clubs worldwide, Octopush is becoming accessible to a growing community of players.
8. FAQs About Octopush
Q: How does scoring work in Octopush?
A: Scoring is straightforward—one point per goal, awarded when the puck crosses the goal line on the pool floor.
Q: How do players hold their breath for so long?
A: Players surface frequently to breathe, often working in rotation to stay engaged and maintain oxygen.
Q: Is Octopush dangerous?
A: While Octopush is safe with proper training and gear, players are trained to avoid collisions and wear protective gloves and ear protection.
Q: How can someone get started with Octopush?
A: Many local clubs offer beginner lessons, and the equipment is often available at training centers or for rent at clubs.
Final Thoughts: Why Octopush is Worth Trying
Octopush combines the excitement of hockey with the challenge of diving, making it a sport unlike any other. As its popularity continues to grow, Octopush attracts a range of athletes—from water polo players to seasoned divers—who enjoy the sport’s unique blend of strategy, athleticism, and team coordination. So if you’re ready for a challenge, diving into Octopush might be just what you’re looking for!
