Water polo's main objective is to score by throwing a buoyant ball into the opposing team's net. Two teams of seven players (six field players and one goalkeeper) compete in a rectangular pool, with four eight-minute quarters.
Basic Rules and Gameplay:
- Starting the Game: Teams race for the ball at the center of the pool.
- Passing and Dribbling: Players use one hand to pass or dribble the ball, keeping the other hand above water.
- Shot Clock: Teams have 30 seconds to attempt a shot; if they don't, possession switches.
- Exclusion Fouls: Certain fouls result in temporary exclusions, giving the opposing team a man-up advantage.
- Major Fouls: Serious fouls can lead to a player’s ejection.
- Goalkeeping: Goalkeepers, wearing different caps, can block shots with their hands but must follow rules outside the five-meter area.
- Counterattacks: Teams quickly shift from defense to offense after gaining possession, exploiting the opponent's disorganization.