Water Polo Comments on the Rules - 2024-26

By NFHS on May 14, 2024 water polo Print

1-6-1e
Defines the markings for the new goal area rule. The requirement for new markings delineating the goal area can be implemented in a variety of ways. For floating goals, temporary markings such as red tape, red paint, red foam markers, or a red towel tied on the goal line lane line at a distance of 2 meters outside of each goal post can be used. For wall goals, a cone on the deck and/or red tape or red paint 2 meters outside of each goal post will be acceptable as temporary markers. For floating goals, a continuous red marking (such as buoys) preferably placed on the goal line, 2 meters from the outside of both goal posts. For wall goals, the continuous marking can be placed using red deck edge markers.
 

1-16
Allows teams to use different colored game balls as long as they contrast with the colors of the players caps and can clearly be seen. If a game ball is deemed “illegal” by the game officials, a different set of game balls will be used. If no other colored balls are available, the game should be played, and the official should report the violation to respective state association. 

2-1-2
Previously, there was nothing in the rules book that specified what the penalty would be if a second player wearing a goalkeeper cap enters the game during live play. This new rule clarifies that a player wearing a second goalkeeper cap who enters the game during live time is considered an illegal player. The player would be excluded for the remainder of the game and a penalty throw would be awarded to the opposing team with the substitute for the excluded player in the re-entry area. This penalty would be the same whether the offending player’s team is on offense or defense.
 

3-17-2a
By adding “or gains possession of” to the rule, it assists referees and timekeepers in the case where a player wins an uncontested sprint but does not touch the ball. This addition allows referees to consider that possession has been gained and the clock can start.
 

4-22
The previous rule limited the direct shot on a corner throw when the ball is removed prior to the throw only for correction of a clock error, replacement of a cap, or the zipping up of a suit. Because there is usually no offensive advantage prior to a corner throw, that time is often well suited for use by the officials for other administrative reasons, such as addressing an issue at the desk or a clock question. The new language will provide administrative flexibility for the officials by allowing a direct shot if the ball is removed for any administrative reason prior to the taking of a corner throw.
 

5-10-1
Clarifies that the attacking player no longer needs to be outside the defending 2-meter area to take the free throw. As long as the player exits the new goal area, the player can take the free throw. 
If the foul is committed inside the 2 meter area but outside of the goal area, the free throw is taken where the ball is. The player does not need to move outside 2 meters to take the free throw. If the foul is inside the goal area, the free throw can be taken outside the goal area opposite the ball (toward half pool) or laterally outside the goal area (toward the sideline). 

5-11
If there is no advantage on the counterattack, the player most readily available to take the free throw must do so. 

6-11-1, 6-11-2
Opens up more angles for the offense and gives the officials less to watch when a player may be inside the 2-meter mark while not directly impacting the play. It also opens up the game from an offensive standpoint creating more room for the offense to move around in and extending the defense. 

6-11-3
Previously, there was a high probability that “inside 2-meter” violations would be missed and lead to goals due to the receiving player being ahead of the ball. Because the new goal area is the area closest to the goal, this new rule allows the officials to correctly call “inside the goal area” violations when the receiving player is ahead of the ball. Once the official sees the ball fly forward (toward the attacking goal) to a player inside the goal area or to a player who will receive the ball inside the goal area, it is a violation. The pass must be on a straight line even with the receiving player or thrown behind.