Underwater hockey (also known as Octopush) is a fiercely strategic, breath-hold sport played on the bottom of swimming pools. Players wear fins, masks, snorkeling gear, and use short sticks to push a heavy puck along the pool floor into the opponent’s goal. Launched in the UK during the 1950s as a winter training activity for divers, this niche game has grown globally—with over 40 countries now fielding teams and competing under the governance of CMAS (World Underwater Federation).
What makes underwater hockey remarkable is its combination of physical demand, tactical nuance, and universal accessibility. Because players must surface for air, the speed, timing, and breath control are as critical as puck skills and teamwork. Communication happens almost entirely through nonverbal cues and prearranged strategy, since underwater speech isn’t possible. The sport is also inclusive: participants from teens to seniors play side by side, with reduced impact on joints compared to many land sports.
In 2025, underwater hockey is stepping into broader view. The first Underwater Hockey Intercontinental Championships took place, splitting participation into regional zones for deeper global competition. Clubs in universities and communities are attracting new players—especially those with swimming backgrounds or a desire for novel athletic challenges. For those curious, local clubs often offer trials or beginner gear, so you can experience firsthand what it’s like to glide beneath the surface in pursuit of a puck.
