A player's first experience often determines whether they return.
Preparing players before they arrive reduces anxiety, improves safety, saves valuable pool time, and allows coaches to focus on introducing Underwater Hockey rather than solving equipment problems.
This page provides a simple checklist for coaches to complete before a player's first session.
Collect the following information before the player's first session.
Ask about the player's previous experience.
Understanding a player's water confidence helps coaches provide the right level of support during their first session.
Record:
Shoe Size
Equipment already owned:
Knowing what equipment players already have allows coaches to prepare any loan equipment before the session begins.
Encourage new players to commit to attending at least two introductory sessions within their first two weeks.
Most players require more than one session before they become comfortable with the equipment and the game.
Send new players a welcome message before their first session.
Include:
Ask players to bring:
If players own equipment, ask them to bring:
Before the player arrives, ensure:
☐ Loan equipment is available in the correct sizes.
☐ Beginner stick tape is ready for player identification.
☐ Spare masks and snorkels are available.
☐ Spare mouthguards are available if required.
☐ Session plan is prepared.
☐ Experienced players understand they will be supporting beginners.