Underwater rugby

Underwater Rugby
Underwater rugby match in Norway.
Highest governing bodyCMAS
NicknamesUWR
First played1961, Cologne, Germany
Characteristics
Contactyes
Team members12 (6 in play)
Mixed-sexYes, except at elite levels
TypeAquatic
Equipmentdiving mask, snorkel, fins, water polo cap.
VenueSwimming pool

Underwater rugby (UWR) is an underwater team sport in which two teams compete to score a negatively buoyant ball (filled with saltwater) into the opponents’ goal at the bottom of a swimming pool. It originated from the physical fitness training programs in German diving clubs during the early 1960s. Recognised by the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) in 1978, It was first played in a world championship in 1980.