Sussex Diving Club
	Octopush

« | Introduction | How to Play | Summary of Rules | »

Introduction

Octopush was invented in the early 1950’s by a member of Southsea BSAC. Today the sport has spread around the world, where it is more widely known as Underwater Hockey.

It is a six-a-side game played in 10-15 minute halves and involves flicking a metal puck (the squid) along the bottom of a swimming pool with a pusher, while holding your breath! If this sounds like fun then read on.

All you need to play is a glove, a mask, a snorkel, some fins and be game for a laugh. It’s great practice for snorkelling and an excellent way of keeping fit through the long winter months.

How to Play

Teams line up at opposite ends of the pool and the squid sits on the bottom in the middle. A countdown is given, and the players from opposing teams race for possession of the puck.

The team gaining possession of the squid then tries to pass or push the squid towards the goal, a gully, at either end of the pool. A goal is scored when the squid, shot from a pusher (or stick) falls into the gully. After each goal, teams return to their respective ends to race for a new face off.

Teamwork and rhythm are critical to a good team performance. Attacking players may only be able to hold their breath for 20 seconds. For defensive players this time may increase to 30-40 seconds. The art of the game is learning how to rotate with team mates in a proper sequence so that there is always a player or two on the bottom to move the puck.

Summary of Rules

• Octopush is a non-contact sport
• The non-stick hand is not to be used except for swimming and personal protection; i.e. Not to push off other players, or handle the puck.
• Overhand swimming is allowed on the surface except where there is a danger of hitting other players with a pusher.
• Players should not stand on the bottom of the pool while the squid is in play.

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