Underwater splash bash
NOORDWYK – Youngsters have a splash while learning about underwater hockey.
Christ Church Underwater Hockey Club had a splash when they kicked off their new season with an open day on 28 September.
The pool in Noordwyk was packed with youngsters playing games, having fun and keeping cool on a hot day.
They later painted underwater hockey gloves and then had a go at the game.
“This is to kick off the season with fun games, get used to the water temperature and have a blast,” said club chairperson, Stefan Köstlin.
“Today is really to get our membership up to date and get people excited for the season.”
He added that the club had planned an exciting season for its players, including the annual parents versus players game on 12 October as well as tournaments played at home and other clubs in Joburg.
The tournaments to be played at Christ Church Underwater Hockey Club include a three by three tournament and a mini pool tournament.
The club is also preparing for South African nationals which will be held in February.
Köstlin described underwater hockey as an incredibly unique, stimulating and extreme sport.
“We play it at the bottom of a pool with an ice hockey puck. It is one of the few sports you play while actually holding your breath.”
Players wear protective head and hand gear as they swim, pushing the puck with sticks towards the goal.
Players use snorkels but must breathe deeply before submerging below water. When they rise to breathe again, they have to blow the water out of their snorkels first.
“It is a challenging sport to play and it is exciting and unique. The greatest conversation starter is to say that I play underwater hockey. The sport is growing nationally. We just want to encourage people to come out and try this unique sport.”
Details: christchurchuwhc@gmail.com; kevinlangston@mtnloaded.co.za; Stefank429@gmail.com
