“Octopush,” also known as underwater hockey, was created in 1954 in England by Alan Blake. Blake, the founder of the Southsea Sub-Aqua Club, wanted to find a way to keep the club members active during the winter when diving was not appealing. To fix his issue, he created underwater hockey so that diving members and British commandos would still remain interested in training during the winter season while having a little fun. Blake and nine other team members played in the first-ever official game in the Guildhall Baths in Portsmouth. From there, the sport quickly caught the attention of other swimmers in the area and eventually created waves of interest from other countries like South Africa.
Although it seems very complicated, the rules of underwater hockey are very simple. Each team consists of 10 players (only 6 playing at once). Players remain on the pool floor and pass the 3lb puck to one another using a foot-long stick that is attached to their glove. Players are also allowed to wear a mask, fins, ear protection, snorkel, and gloves. Although the sport is non-contact, it can often turn rough and become aggressive. To win the game, you must score a goal by hitting the puck through the opponent’s net without having the puck touch any part of your body. The team with the most points wins (Underwater Hockey Rules).
Underwater hockey may appear as a niche sport but over the years it has continued to gain international recognition and popularity. Currently, the Olympic Committee recognizes underwater hockey as a sport but does not offer it yet in the games. Players hope that one day they will be able to compete in larger international competitions, such as the Olympics, to continue to spread the love for underwater sports.