¶ Level 1 – Exit Standards
Level 1 Exit Standards define the minimum knowledge, skills, and confidence expected before a player progresses to Level 2.
The focus is not on perfect technique. Instead, players should demonstrate safe participation, growing confidence, and an understanding of the fundamental skills introduced throughout Level 1.
The player can:
- Use their mask, snorkel, fins, glove, and stick confidently.
- Clear their snorkel independently.
- Dive and surface comfortably.
- Swim confidently underwater while wearing their equipment.
The player can:
- Maintain a stable body position on the bottom.
- Swim with the puck under control.
- Look ahead while maintaining possession.
- Protect the puck using a standard curl.
- Complete short slide passes and flick passes with reasonable accuracy.
¶ Game Understanding
The player demonstrates an understanding of:
- The objective of Underwater Hockey.
- The three basic rules of the game.
- Supporting teammates while attacking.
- Staying between the puck and the goal while defending.
- The importance of maintaining possession whenever possible.
The player consistently:
- Surfaces before becoming uncomfortable.
- Shows awareness of nearby players.
- Uses their stick safely and under control.
- Follows coach instructions.
- Participates confidently in game situations.
A player is ready to progress when they:
- Participate confidently throughout a game.
- Demonstrate the core skills introduced in all three Level 1 blocks.
- Understand the basic attacking and defensive principles.
- Can play safely with minimal coach intervention.
- Show enthusiasm and confidence to continue learning.
Players do not need perfect technique before progressing to Level 2.
Players should have completed:
✔ Block 1 – Play Your First Game
✔ Block 2 – Control the Puck
✔ Block 3 – Attacking & Defensive Principles
¶ Final Standard
A successful Level 1 graduate is a safe, confident, and enthusiastic participant who understands the basic flow of Underwater Hockey and is ready to begin developing stronger individual skills and game understanding in Level 2.