Introduce players to the equipment, the puck, and their first game of Underwater Hockey.
By the end of this block, players should:
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Equipment Fitting | 15 min |
| Water Confidence | 10 min |
| First Puck Contact | 5 min |
| Play Your First Game | 45 min |
| Wrap-up | 5 min |
Ensure every player is comfortable and confident with their equipment before entering the water.
Foundation Badges Supported: Mask & Snorkel Control
The mask is the most important piece of equipment.
A comfortable mask creates a positive first experience. Spend the time needed to achieve a proper fit.
Blast Clear
Use a forceful exhalation after surfacing to clear water from the snorkel.
Displacement Clear
Blow a small air bubble into the snorkel just before it breaks the surface, allowing the expanding air to push the water out.
Players do not need to master both clearing techniques immediately. Introduce both methods and allow them to use whichever feels most comfortable.
Comfort is more important than performance. Poorly fitting fins can quickly discourage new players.
Spend minimal time fitting these items. Players will naturally become more comfortable using the glove and stick as they gain experience.
Linked Individual Fundamental: Swimming at the surface
Become comfortable swimming with the equipment.
Resource: Swimming at the surface
Badge supported: Fin Propulsion Control
Swim two lengths using:
Watch for players struggling with snorkel breathing, body position, or fin technique.
Learn diving and surfacing techniques.
Resource: Diving While Swimming
Badge supported: Dive Control
Swim two lengths while repeating the following sequence:
Encourage smooth, continuous movement rather than stopping between each dive.
Become comfortable interacting with the puck.
Resource: Kicking with the Puck
Allow players to:
Do not provide formal technique instruction. Encourage natural discovery and confidence.
The objective is comfort, not skill. Allow players to experiment without fear of making mistakes.
Introduce the basic objective, rules, and player responsibilities.
Two teams compete to score by pushing the puck into the opposing goal.
Players continuously cycle through:
Dive
↓
Help
↓
Surface
↓
Recover
↓
Repeat
Keep explanations brief. Players will learn most effectively by getting into the water and playing.
Experience a real game of Underwater Hockey in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Where possible:
Encourage:
Avoid:
The goal is for players to experience the game and leave wanting to return.
Ask players:
Finish with:
We look forward to seeing you at your next session.
A successful first session is not measured by skill.
Success means players: