Water Polo Canada Community Sport Initiation. The I Love Water Polo Coach

Transcription

1 Water Polo Canada Community Sport Initiation The I Love Water Polo Coach COACH TOOLBOX Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 0

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5 Table of Contents Equipment Guidelines... 5 Basic and Modified Rules... 8 Community Water Polo Activities and Games Self-Assessment Tools Facility Safety Checklist First Aid Kit Checklist Level 1 Practice Plans Level 2 Practice Plans Level 3 Practice Plans Level 4 Practice Plans Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Worksheet Accident Report Form Letter to Parents Pre-Season Questionnaire for Parents Pre-Season Questionnaire for Participants Basic and Fundamental Skills Field of Play Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 4

6 Practice Equipment Equipment Guidelines Mandatory Recommended Optional Pool All deep pool *½ Shallow ½ Deep Pool **Water Polo Nets Water Polo Balls FUNdmentals and Technical Foundations Mikasa 6008 or equivalent Active for Life Mikasa 6009 or equivalent (minimum 1 ball/3 athletes) ***Water Polo Hats (red goalie hats) Bathing Suits Bathing Caps (specifically participants with long hair) Whistle Coaching Board/Visual Aid Goal Line, 2M, 5M, and Half Line Markers Kickboards Pylons or Markers for Drills Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 5

7 Game Equipment Mandatory Recommended Optional Pool All deep pool *½ Shallow ½ Deep Pool **Water Polo Nets Water Polo Balls FUNdmentals and Technical Foundations Mikasa 6008 or equivalent Active for Life Mikasa 6009 or equivalent (minimum 6 balls) ***Water Polo Hats (red goalie hats) Bathing Suits Bathing Caps (specifically girls) Whistle Coaching Board/Visual Aid Goal Line, 2M, 5M, and Half Line Markers Game Clock Team Benches Minor Official s Table Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 6

8 *FUNdamentals 15 x 10 meters 4 aside (including a goaltender) 18 x 12 meters 5 aside (including a goaltender) Technical Foundations 18 x 12 meters 5 aside (including a goaltender) 20 x 15 meters 6 aside (including a goaltender) Active for Life 25 x 18 meters 7 aside (including a goaltender) Furthermore, any type of pool (rectangle, square, L-shaped, kidney shaped, etc) and even front property can be used for Community Sport polo. The basin can be any combination of shallow and deep. ** It is not necessary to have an expensive set of polo goals in order to play the game. Community Stream coaches should consider the following options if actual polo nets are not available: 1. Pylons can be set up at either end of the playing area, on the deck. Usual distance is 3 metres apart. 2. Buoys used primarily at fronts, the buoys are spaced 3-5 metres apart and secured to the bottom with weights. This system is also possible in a pool using any piece of equipment which will float. 3. Net taped on pool wall- Masking tape can be used to mark nets on the walls of an indoor pool so long as it is not too far back from the edge of the pool. Usual dimensions would be 1 metre high and 3 metres wide. 4. Rebound Nets can also be boards created by turning a table on its side and setting this at either end of the playing area. Weights are usually placed behind the table to keep it from sliding when hit by the ball. It is also possible to make your own rebound boards with a net painted on the board. The board would be 1.5 metres high and 4 metres wide with a 1 metre x 3 metre net painted or taped on the board. The board should be heavy enough to absorb the impact of the ball and some method of putting weight behind the board should be developed. 5. Hanging Nets light weight nets can be suspended from cables which cross above the playing surface. By attaching a cable from one side of the pool to the other, it is possible to hang netting or simply posts corresponding to the 1metre x 3 metre recommended dimensions. ***Any method of identifying one team from another can be used as standard polo hats can be expensive, and therefore, we suggest the following options: 1. Rubber swim caps are inexpensive and come in many different colour combinations. It is not necessary to have them numbered. 2. Head bands - any type can be used. 3. Wrist bands - same idea but more difficult to determine who is who while playing. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 7

9 Basic Rules of Water Polo Basic and Modified Rules The following rules are extracts from the FINA rule book and are only used as reference for the community coach to understand how a polo game is played. The section Community Sport Water Polo Rules is what is to be used for Community Sport competition. The Team Each team consists of 15 players and has 7 players in the pool 1 goalie and 6 field players. One team wears a dark color polo hat while the other team wears a light color polo hat. A polo hat is similar to a bathing cap, however, it has strings that tie underneath the chin and protective ear guards. Attacking Team/ Defending Team The Attacking Team is the team that has the ball and is trying to score. The Defending Team is the team trying to stop the opponent from scoring, and trying to take the ball away from the Attacking Team. Length of the Game A FINA rules game time is 4 periods of 8 minutes. There is a 5 minute half time rest, and a 2 minute rest between the 1 st and 2 nd periods and again the 3 rd and 4 th periods. There is a 30 second possession clock in which you must direct a shot towards the net prior to the 30 seconds elapsing. A failure to do so will result in a loss of possession. Objective of the Game The primary objective of the game is to outscore your opponent, and to be the Attacking Team for the majority of the game. Substitutions Coaches are allowed to substitute players from the re-entry rule (re-entry area for exclusion foul) at any time during play, after a goal is scored, and during rest periods. Starting the Play At the beginning of each period the two teams line up along their goal line and stay there until the referee signals the start of play. A designated player on each team races for the ball, dropped by the referee at half pool, to try to gain possession of it and go on the attack. Restarting the Play after a Goal is Scored After one team scores a goal, both teams have to stay on their own side of the half distance line. The team that is scored against is given the ball. As soon as the referee signals the start of play the team with the ball will go on the attack. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 8

10 Goals Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo A goal is scored when the whole ball crosses the goal line within the goal posts. A goal cannot be scored directly from a free throw, unless the shot is taken from outside the 5 meter line with undue delay. A goal cannot be scored with a clenched fist. Fouls There are three (3) kinds of fouls in this game: minor, exclusion, and penalty fouls. 1. Minor Fouls (free throw awarded to opposing player)- are awarded against a player by the referee, with a short whistle, if they commit any of the below offences: a. Advance beyond the goal line before a start or restart of game; b. Assist a player at the start or restart of game; c. Push off the posts or sides or bottom of the pool; d. Impede or prevent the free movement of a player unless they are holding the ball; e. Push or push off from an opponent; f. Hold the ball under when tackled; g. Hit the ball with fist; h. Touch the ball with both hands at the same time; i. Be within 2 metres of the opponent s goal line without the ball and receive a pass from a teammate or interfere with the opposing team s goaltender; j. Delay unduly when taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw. 2. Exclusion Fouls are called for the more serious offences with 3 staggered whistle blows: a. Holding or sinking an opposing player who does not have the ball; b. Pulling back an opponent while in a scoring position; c. Splashing in an opponent s face; d. Blocking or attempting to block a shot or pass with 2 arms; e. Kicking or hitting another player. When an exclusion foul is called against a player he must swim to the substitution area for a period of 0:20 leaving his/her team to only play with 5 field players and 1 goalie. When the attacking team has more players than the defending team this is called a power play, man advantage, or 6-on-5. The player in the substitution area may re-enter the field of play after the minor officials wave the blue/white flag at the end of the 0:20 exclusion period, or when the attacking team scores a goal. 3. Penalty Fouls are committed within the attacking team s 5 meter area. The attacking player must be in an optimal position to score a goal in the 5 meter area. No Goal Goal Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 9

11 Ejection For the Entire Game 3 Fouls When an individual athlete is awarded any combination of 3 exclusion or penalty fouls they will be excluded from the remainder of the game. The term is called being fouled out. Misconduct Misconduct offences include the use of unacceptable language, violent or persistent foul play, refuse obedience to or show disrespect for a referee or official, or behaviour against the spirit of the rules and likely to bring the game into disrepute. Any athlete guilty of any the above offences will be excluded for the remainder of the game with substitution. If the offence occurs during play the team will be penalized with a 0:20 major foul. Brutality If a player deliberately, as deemed by the referee, strikes or attempts to strike another player using any part of the body the player will be excluded from the game. The team will have to play with one less player for a period of 4 minutes, while the attacking team will also be rewarded a penalty shot. A substitute player can enter the field of play through the re-entry area once the minor officials waive the yellow flag, along with the respective blue or white flag, at the end of the 4 minute penalty. Goal Throw A goal throw is awarded when the ball leaves the field of play (behind the goal line outside of the goal), and is last touched by any player other than the goalkeeper of the defending team. Corner Throw (2M) A corner throw is awarded when the ball leaves the field of play (behind the goal line outside of the goal), and is last touched by the defending goalkeeper. Goalkeepers As in most sports, there are special rules for goalkeepers-after all- they have a special job to do. The goaltender can hit the ball with his fist, and touch or catch the ball with both hands. A goalkeeper can score a goal but must not go past the half line. The goalkeeper is not allowed to move the net during play or sink the ball whilst defending an attacker close to goal. If he/she moves the net to stop a shot from going in or sinks the ball under pressure of attacking player, a penalty throw is awarded to the other team. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 10

12 Community Sport Water Polo Rules These rules have been specifically designed for the Community Sport and Active for Life Streams. They are not the same as international rules or the rules played by polo athletes in the Canadian Competition Stream. The major reason for the difference is safety and growth and development principles. Players and Field of Play Any number of players, per team, is permitted. We recommend from 3 to 7 players per team in the at a time. The key is to match the size of the field of play with the number of players in the. As a rough guideline, we would suggest: FUNdamentals 15 x 10 meters 4 aside (including a goaltender) Technical Foundations 18 x 12 meters 18 x 12 meters 5 aside (including a goaltender) 5 aside (including a goaltender) 20 x 15 meters 6 aside (including a goaltender) Active for Life 25 x 18 meters 7 aside (including a goaltender) Furthermore, any type of pool (rectangle, square, L-shaped, kidney shaped, etc) and even front property can be used for Community Sport polo. The basin can be any combination of shallow and deep. Start To start the game, both teams line up on their own goal line. A designated player on each team races for the ball, dropped by the referee at half pool, to try to gain possession of it and go on the attack. The game clock starts once a team gains possession of the ball. Repeat this process for the beginning of each period (if there are multiple periods). After a Goal After a goal is scored, both teams line up at halfway. When the referee blows the whistle, the team that was scored against passes the ball back to someone on their own team and play resumes. Scoring A goal can be scored anyway possible, except with a clenched fist or with two hands. Only the goaltender can touch the ball with two hands. No Goal Goal Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 11

13 Free Throw: Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo A Free Throw is awarded to a player when an opposing player commits a minor foul. In Community polo, players are not allowed to touch an opponent even if they are holding the ball. Community polo is designed as a non-contact game. This differs significantly from Olympic polo. The free throw can only be passed to another player. A goal throw is taken by the goalie when the offensive team shoots the ball wide of the net. A 2 meter throw is taken by the offensive team if the ball is shot and the goalie knocks the ball behind the goal line. The 2 meter throw is taken at the 2 meter line at the edge of the pool. Foul It is a foul to: Make contact with another player; Touch the ball with both hands; Jump off of or walk on the bottom when playing the ball, blocking a shot, or intercepting a pass; FUNdamentals competition are allowed to use the bottom at all times Splash an opponent Submerge the ball. Time FUNdamentals Technical Foundations Active for Life 2 halves x 10 minutes running time 4 quarters x 8-10 minutes running time 4 quarters x 5-7 minutes stop time Officials One referee controls the game using a whistle and communicating all decisions with words and arm gestures to the participants. The referee can be in the for the FUNdamentals pathway athletes, and out of the for all other pathways. The referee can also act as the timekeeper when officiating athletes in the FUNdamentals and Technical Foundation pathways, however, minor officials should be used for the Active for Life pathway. Scoresheets and scorekeeping are not necessary for the FUNdamentals and Technical Foundations pathways. As athletes progress through the LTAD pathways: FUNdamentals; Technical Foundations; and Active for Life- the referee becomes much less involved in terms of verbal communication and minor officiating. Goalies Goalies can stand on the bottom and touch the ball with both hands. Goalies should wear a red polo hat. It is suggested that players should take turns being a goalie. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 12

14 Community Water Polo Activities and Games Conditioning and Warm Up Activities Gymnastics Skills being Utilized: ABCs: Agility, balance, co-ordination, & speed Athletics Skills being Utilized: RJT: Running, jumping, & throwing Swimming Description: Balance in buoyant environment, and the foundation for all other -based sports Other Sports Involving Balls (handball, baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, dodge ball, etc) Skills being Utilized: ABCs: Agility, balance, co-ordination, & speed RJT: Running, jumping, & throwing KGBs: Kinesthetic, gliding, buoyancy, and striking with the body PCKs: Passing, catching, kicking, and striking with an implement Hand eye coordination Circuit Training Description: 8 stations x 0:20 with 0:10 break. Choose exercises from page 55 and 56 of the Reference Material Skills being Utilized: Core strength Shoulder and knee stability Flexibility and stretching Agility and balance Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 13

15 Water Polo Activities Relay Races Description: In groups of 4 select a skill listed below. The object is to swim the chosen skill over a specified distance. When one participant has completed the distance, the next in line swims the skill over the specified distance until the entire group has completed the relay. Should repeat a few times so each participant practices more than 1 skill. Skills being Utilized: Eggbeater kick, spider, sliding, feet first travelling, head up front crawl, head up front crawl with the ball, sitting back crawl, zig zag, zig zag with the ball, rollover, & stop n go xx x xxx ooo ooo Lighthouse Drill Description: The coach stands on the side of the pool. As the participants being swimming, using head up front crawl; the instructor quickly flashes a number of fingers. At the end of the length, the participants must indicate the number of fingers held up the instructor. Repeat 2 to 4 times. This drill not only emphasizes head up front crawl but it also forces the participant to become aware of what is going on in all parts of the pool. Therefore, the term lighthouse refers to the head continually rotating looking for the coach s cue. Skills being utilized: Head up front crawl with and without the ball X X X Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 14

16 Water Baseball Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Description: Weighted objects are used for bases and the bat is the participants arm. The ball should be large and soft, one that is easy to hit. The play should be in the shallow end, however, to get to a base the participant must use head up front crawl. If the participant does not use head up front crawl, they are automatically out. The other rules are the same as regular baseball. Skills being utilized: Head up front crawl, picking up the ball, forehand pass, hand-eye coordination, and pass receiving (catching) XXX X Water Soccer Description: Participants are divided into 2 equal teams. Using the width of the pool, the object is to kick the ball to the opposing team s side. A goal is scored when the ball touches the side of the pool. A goal can only be scored by kicking or heading the ball. Using the hands or arms is a minor foul and results in an indirect kick for the other team. No goalie is needed, but anyone can protect the end. The objective of the game is that all players must kick and swim with the ball while on their backs. To start the game, use a coin toss to determine who has the ball first. Play a game to 5 or 7 and see who the soccer champion is. Skills being utilized: Sitting back crawl and hand-eye coordination Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 15

17 Extra Extra Relay Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Description: Divide participants into teams of 4. Each team is provided with a newspaper. Teams start in the. The object is to hold the paper out of the, preventing it from getting wet using the eggbeater kick to move. The participant can hold the paper out of the with 1 or 2 hands. When 1 participant has completed the distance, the paper is handed to the next in line until the team has completed the relay. The team that completes the relay first and also has the driest paper wins. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick Please see diagram above in Relay Races Leap frog Description: The object is to leap over each other s heads using the partner s shoulders for leverage. The leaper faces their partner s back, grabbing the shoulders to pull up and over. The other partner kicks hard, using eggbeater to prevent sinking. The roles are then reversed and leap frog is repeated for the entire length, or width, of the pool (deep only). Repeat 2 to 4 times. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick For safety purposes, instruct the participants, when leaping, to front roll away from their partner. This game should only be used with participants who are able to tread well. Frozen Tag Description: Participants swim all around the pool. One participant is it. When a participant is tagged, that participant must stay in that spot and tread. To be unfrozen, a participant who has not been tagged must swim through the legs of the tagged participant. When a participant has been tagged 3 times that participant then becomes it. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick and head up front crawl Statue Tag Description: All participants stand along the side at the shallow end of the pool. Enough balls are placed in the for everyone except 1 person. One the word GO, everyone jumps into the and swims to get a ball. The one participant who does not get a ball is it. All of the other participants must swim to stay away from it. If a participant is touched by it, that participant must stop pick-up the ball, hold it over their head with 1 hand, and remain in that position until another participant knocks the ball out of their hand. If a participant is touched 3 times by it, that participant becomes it as well. This continues until only 1 participant remains, and they are determined the winner. Skills being utilized: Head up front crawl with and without the ball and picking up the ball Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 16

18 High Five Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Description: In pairs, participants perform high fives, getting as high out of the as they can. Encourage them to use 2 hands and be creative trying 360 turns with a high five at the end, summersault high fives, etc. Once everyone has practiced, have a competition judged by their peers, marking each pair based on execution and how imaginative the pair can be. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick Beach Ball Description: A great way to accentuate picking up the ball from underneath is by using beach balls or large proof balls. Try using a beach ball in a game, the participants will not only have a good time, but will be forced to learn the skill. Skills being utilized: Picking up the ball from underneath Ball Transfer Drill Description: In pairs about 4 meters apart, the participant with the ball transfers the ball from their opposite hand (along the ) to their passing hand and throws the ball to their partner s opposite hand (on the ). The partner then repeats the drill. Teach the participants to transfer the ball by placing their hand underneath the ball, and not grabbing it. After trying this drill several times, participants will become used to cradling the ball with their hand and they will be able to perform the drill with greater speed. Reverse so that participant is comfortable using both their left and right hands. Skills being utilized: Picking up the ball from underneath and forehand pass X Monkey in the Middle Description: In groups of 3, the participants line up in a straight line. The middle participant receives a wet pass from a participant, and then rotates to make a dry pass to the other participant. After several turns, the 3 group members rotate positions. Skills being utilized: Picking up the ball and forehand pass X X X Wet Pass Rotate Dry Pass Dry Pass Rotate Wet Pass Donkey Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 17

19 Description: In groups of 4, each having 1 ball, the objective is to catch the bal when it is passed and not to drop it. If the ball is dropped, the player who dropped or missed the pass is penalized with a letter. Every time the ball is dropped, another letter is added until the word DONKEY is spelled, at which time that participant is out of the game. The winner is the participant who is last in the. When passing the ball, a participant may pass in any direction, but it must be a dry pass. Skills being utilized: Forehand pass and pass receiving (catching) X X X X Around the World Description: This drill should be performed in deep. One participant is in the middle of 5 or 6 other participants who are in a circle. The participant in the middle is the focal point and passes the ball to each participant (facing the participant each time). After the participant has gone around the circle twice, a different participant goes in the middle. Skills being utilized: Forehand pass and pass receiving (catching) X X X X X X Pop up 500 Description: 1 participant is designated as the passer while the others are spread out at least 6-8 meters from the passer. The passer randomly throws the ball towards the catchers. The catchers score 100 points for every ball caught with their catching hand and 200 points for every ball caught with the opposite hand. The first player to reach 500 points becomes the new passer and everyone s points start over at 0. Skills being utilized: Forehand pass and pass receiving (catching) Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 18

20 X Passer X X X X X X X X 5 Alive/3 Alive Description: All participants line up at the 5M marker. They have to shoot to score on goal without hesitation. If they miss, or the participant in nets makes a save, the shooter has to swim towards the goal and takeover as goaltender. The goaltender who makes the save passes the ball to the next participant in line and then swims to the back of the line. Goals scored against are cumulative. Each person to allow 5 goals/3 goals against is eliminated. No points are awarded for goals scored. The purpose of the game is to score goals in order to eliminate the other participants. The last participant left is the winner. Skills being utilized: Forehand shot, forehand pass, head up front crawl, sitting back crawl, pass receiving (catching), and picking up the ball Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 19

21 Skills Competition Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Description: Separate participants into 2 teams. Each team receives 1-point for winning the event. Have each participant partake in at least one of the following: Swim Ball A participant from each team swims to the middle and races for the ball, as the participants approach the middle the coach drops the ball in the pool. Skills being utilized: Head up front crawl Jump Ball A participant from each faces each other while the coach throws the ball in the air, as the ball is in the air the participants jump and tip the ball behind them. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick and whip kick X Coach X Accuracy Shooting A participant lines up on the 5M line and receives 5 passes from each corner and attempts to hit all 5 targets in the net (top corner left and right, bottom corner left and right, and bunny- middle of the net underneath the crossbar) Skills being utilized: Forehand pass, forehand shot, and pass receiving (catching) X Passer #1 X Passer #2 Fast Pass X Shooter 2 participants line up 2M apart and attempt to make as many dry passes as possible in 1 minute Skills being utilized: Forehand pass and pass receiving (catching) Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 20

22 Push-of-War Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo A participant from each team faces each other on their stomach in the polo ready position. There are 2 pylons set- one 1M behind the feet of participant A and the other 1M behind the feet of participant B. Each participant must try to push each other past the pylon. Skills being utilized: Eggbeater kick and horizontal body position X X Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 21

23 Self-Assessment Tools Great coaches are continually looking for ways to improve. In order to be able to tell if you are improving, you will need to ask yourself and others How am I doing? The following assessment tools are provided to help you check how you are doing as a community coach. You will see that they are clearly focused on your ability to provide a fun and safe environment in which children can learn through playing a sport. You will use some of these tools during your practice coaching sessions in the workshop, but you may also choose to use them throughout your season by asking a trusted parent or an assistant to fill them in for you, or by filling them in yourself. A few words on receiving feedback from others When you ask others their feedback, remember to listen attentively to their observations and comments without expressing defensiveness. You may not always agree with their observations, but you have asked for the input, so it deserves to be considered with an open mind. If possible, try to gather feedback from more than one person, and look for commonalities among their comments. It is your choice what you decide to implement and what comments you choose to ignore. The power to change your behaviours remains yours alone. Tip: The greatest way to encourage children/youth in sport to receive your feedback as a coach and to try to improve their abilities is to model this behaviour. Coaches who regularly ask for feedback and who actively seek to improve their intervention skills are showing the children they coach that it is good to aim at getting better in whatever you do. It is very true that a picture is often worth more than words alone. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 22

24 Self-assessment Sheet #1 Practice Coaching #1: Explanation, demonstration, organization, and safety Criteria Yes No Selection of the activity The activity selected is appropriate for the age of the participant The activity selected is appropriate for the ability of the participant Comments/suggestions: Safety before beginning the activity Equipment is appropriate for the age/size of the participant Equipment is in good repair and is properly adjusted The playing area is checked for hazards Comments/suggestions: Explanation Coach is positioned such that all children can see and distractions are minimized Explanation and demonstration last 90 seconds or less in total time The purpose of the exercise/activity is clearly stated One or two key points are emphasized (not necessarily technical aspects) Safety points are emphasized, if appropriate Coach speaks clearly and loud enough for all to hear The choice of words is appropriate for the age of the participants Participants are checked for understanding Comments/suggestions: Demonstration All the participants can clearly see the demonstration The speed of the demonstration allows participants to see accurately what they are to do Coach demonstrates in a manner that a child would be able to perform the activity Coach reinforces key points while he/she demonstrates Participants are checked for understanding Comments/suggestions: Organization A sufficient area is used for the activity Available equipment is used optimally Participants are active for the majority of the time (minimum waiting in line) Comments/suggestions: Safety during the activity If a potentially hazardous situation presents itself, coach deals with it immediately Comments/suggestions: Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 23

25 Self-assessment Sheet #2 Practice Coaching #2: Skill progression, intervention, and communication Criteria Yes No Skill Progression The progression for skill development is appropriate for the age/ability of the participant Coach focuses on the appropriate key points for the skill to be developed Coach adjusts the activity for more advanced and less advanced abilities within the group Comments/suggestions: Intervention Coach scans the entire group constantly and intervenes with a variety of participants Coach looks for input/feedback from the participant Correction or reinforcement is clear and a visual is provided Correction or reinforcement is brief and participant returns quickly to activity Coach focuses on communication what to do (not what NOT to do) Comments/suggestions: Communication Coach speaks in a calm tone of voice (i.e. does not yell at the participant) Coach uses language that the children can easily understand Coach refrains from the use of foul language Words and body language used in the correction reinforcement are positive * When praise is given, it is specific, not general (e.g. you are doing well, not nice one! ) Coach acts and speaks with enthusiasm * Comments/suggestions: *This looks like: *This sounds like: Smiles; nods in the affirmative Cheers; Sally, you did very well. Way to go! ; Johnny, I see that you are improving at. Great job! * This feels like: High fives; safe pats on the back; a hand shake of congratulations (use these only if the child/youth is clearly comfortable with physical contact from you) Counting interventions during the activity Duration of the activity in minutes (when participants are practicing, excluding explanation & demo) Number Total number of interventions with the entire group Total number of interventions with individual participants Total number of different participants with whom the coach intervened Remember, more is not necessarily better. The total numbers are only to give you an indication of how often you are intervening and whether you are moving among the group or focusing only on certain participants. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 24

26 Are the Children Having Fun? While the children were participating, the following was observed: (tick once in the shape for each time it was observed) A child smiled A child laughed or giggled A child encouraged another (cheer, pat on back, high five) YOUR SELF-ESTEEM METER (count your ticks) Today, your coaching helped make a child feel good about himself/herself times. Way to go! Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 25

27 Are you Spreading your Attention Around? This is a tool to help you assess whether you are reaching all of the participants you coach. Are you sure that you are spreading your attention among all of the participants that you coach? Sometimes, what we think we do is quite different from what we actually do. In reality, as coaches we are not able to pay attention to everyone, all of the time. Sometimes, some participants need more of our help than others. As a general guideline, however, because you are valued by the participants that you coach, try to make an intervention at least once during a practice with each participant, especially to point out the specific things he/she is doing well. Using the table below, write in each of the names of the participants you coach, and tick on their INT boxes each time you intervene with a given participant. Compare your results over several practices to be sure you are spreading your attention among all participants. Date of practice: Int = Intervention Name Int 1 Int 2 Int 3 Int 4 Int 5 Ex. Jamie Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 26

28 How are you Acting During Competitions, and is Everyone Getting a Chance to Play? While you were coaching, the following was observed: (tick once in the shape for each time it was observed) The coach spoke harshly or yelled at a child The coach encouraged a child (smile, cheer, pat on back, high five) The coach commented negatively about or to the official A child smiled, laughed or cheered Participant s name Total playing time Participant s name Total playing time Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page

29 Facility Safety Checklist Facility: Date: Inspected by: Item Adequate Inadequate Corrective Measures* Water Basin, Deck Space, and Air Quality Nets, Water Polo Balls, and Other Equipment Being Used (ie bungies) Bathing Suits and Water Polo Hats First Aid Kit & Procedures (see First Aid Kit Checklist in Toolbox) Locker Room Others: Observations *Corrections 1) Add 2) Replace 3) Modify 4) Discard 5) Clean 6) Repair 7) Check This document, once completed, should be given to the facilities manager, and the coach should keep a copy for his/her files. Aquatic Supervisor s Name: Signature: Coach name: Signature of coach: Date (dd/mm/yyyy): Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 28

30 First Aid Kit Checklist A complete first aid kit is essential. This kit must be carefully prepared in order to treat the most common injuries, and maintained regularly. Furthermore, it must be accessible to those responsible for the team. Here is a checklist to keep in the first aid kit so that you can verify regularly that it is complete. ITEM Surgical gloves Peroxide Soft antiseptic soap Antiseptic wipes Band-aids Butterfly bandages Sterile gauze pads Self-adherent wrap Second skin* Triangular bandage Safety pins Juice box Plastic bags for ice Scissors Tweezers Duct tape** Change for phone EMS phone numbers DATE/CHECKED BY (initial) Participant medical and contact info * Second Skin is a brand name for a product that is directly applied over a blister (very useful to have when participants are breaking in new footwear) ** While duct tape is not to be used for bandaging injuries, when others go looking in the first aid kit for tape to repair equipment in a hurry, they will take the duct tape instead of using your expensive first aid tape CARRYING A CELL PHONE AND USING IT IS THE FASTEST WAY TO ACCESS EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES SUPPORT Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 29

31 Level 1 Practice Plans Level 1 (8-10 +/- years of age, 45 minute class, 10 classes) Passing and catching outside of, 1M apart Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Front crawl 15M Breaststroke 15M Backstroke 15M Eggbeater in deep 0:30 Horizontal body position (eggbeater and sculling) for 0:30 with no movement Pick up ball from underneath and hold above head for 0:05 Pick up ball from underneath and throw in shallow Head up front crawl 10M Water polo backstroke (sitting back crawl) 10M Trudgeon (head up front crawl with breaststroke kick) 10M Head up front crawl with the ball 5M Horizontal body position (eggbeater and sculling) for 5m sliding left and 5m right Spider 0:30 (horizontal body position moving in circular motion left and right) Pick up ball from underneath and hold above head for 0:10 in deep Pick up ball from underneath and throw in deep Pick up ball from underneath and shoot in shallow Receive pass in shallow Demonstration of sportsmanship and fair play in game and practice environment Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 30

32 Lesson 1 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce participants to polo for the first time Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Front crawl Breaststroke Back crawl Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Pick up the ball from underneath and hold above head in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 31

33 Lesson 2 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce and refine basic movement skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Front crawl Breaststroke Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Spider Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Pick up the ball from underneath and hold above head in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 32

34 Lesson 3 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce and refine basic movement skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl Trudgeon Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Spider Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 33

35 Lesson 4 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce and refine basic movement skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl with the ball Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in shallow Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Spider Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 34

36 Lesson 5 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce and refine basic movement skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl with the ball Water polo backstroke Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in shallow Vertical eggbeater Spider Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 35

37 Lesson 6 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce a polo game and the rules for the first time Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl Head up front crawl with the ball Water polo backstroke Vertical eggbeater Spider Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 36

38 Lesson 7 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce polo skills in deep Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in deep Pick up the ball from underneath and shoot in shallow Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 37

39 Lesson 8 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review polo swimming and movement skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Head up front crawl with ball Water polo backstroke Trudgeon Spider Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Passing and catching in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 38

40 Lesson 9 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Develop hand eye coordination in the Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in deep Pick up the ball from underneath and shoot in shallow Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 39

41 Lesson 10 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Develop hand eye coordination in the Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic balancing and coordination activities (static single movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in deep Pick up the ball from underneath and shoot in shallow Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Awards presentation Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile END OF SEASON Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 40

42 Level 2 Practice Plans Level 2 (8-10 +/- years of age, 45 minute class, 10 classes) Passing and catching outside of, 2M apart Basic/Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Front crawl 25M Breaststroke 25M Water polo backstroke (sitting back crawl) 15M Trudgeon (head up front crawl with breaststroke kick) 15M Head up front crawl 15M Head up front crawl with the ball 10M Stop and go 10M Eggbeater in deep 1:00 Horizontal body position (eggbeater and sculling) for 10M sliding left and 10M right Travelling Spider (horizontal body position moving in circular motion left and right) 10M Pick up ball from underneath and hold above head with faking for 0:10 in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in shallow Demonstration of sportsmanship and fair play in game and practice environment Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 41

43 Lesson 1 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review swimming skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Front crawl Breaststroke Back crawl Head up front crawl Head up front crawl with the ball Trudgeon Water polo backstroke Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Pick up the ball from underneath and throw in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 42

44 Lesson 2 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Travelling Spider Passing and catching in shallow Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 43

45 Lesson 3 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Incorporate swimming and body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater holding ball above head with faking Travelling Spider Stop and go Swim and pick up the ball from underneath Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Passing and catching in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 44

46 Lesson 4 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Incorporate swimming and body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater holding ball above head with faking Horizontal body position polo ready position Stop and go Swim and pick up the ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Passing and catching in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 45

47 Lesson 5 Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Continue to develop basic polo skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater holding ball above head with faking Travelling Spider Head up front crawl with the ball Passing and catching for accuracy in shallow Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Passing and catching in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 46

48 Lesson 6 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Continue to develop basic polo skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Travelling Spider Trudgeon Water polo backstroke Swim and pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 47

49 Lesson 7 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce deep passing and shooting skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater holding ball above head with faking Water polo backstroke Stop and go Swim and pick up the ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 48

50 Lesson 8 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce deep passing and shooting skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Horizontal body position polo ready position Travelling Spider Receive and pass for accuracy in shallow Swim and pick up the ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 49

51 Lesson 9 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce deep passing and shooting skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Vertical eggbeater holding ball above head with faking Head up front crawl Swim and pick up the ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in shallow Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 50

52 Lesson 10 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce deep passing and shooting skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; kids polo hats/colored caps; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Basic/intermediate balancing and coordination activities (static multiple movements) Main Part: (30 minutes) Swim and pick up the ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in shallow Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Awards presentation Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile END OF SEASON Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 51

53 Level 3 Practice Plans Level 3 ( /- years of age, 60 minute class, 10 classes) Passing and catching outside the, 3M apart Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Front crawl 2 x 50M Breaststroke 2 x 50M Water polo backstroke (sitting back crawl) 25M Trudgeon (head up front crawl with breaststroke kick) 25M Head up front crawl 2 x 25M Head up front crawl with the ball 25M Zig zag 15M Rollover 15M Stop and go with the ball 15M Eggbeater in deep 3:00 with wrists out Horizontal body position (eggbeater and sculling) for 15M sliding left and right Travelling Spider (horizontal body position moving in circular motion left and right) 15M Pick up ball from underneath and hold above head with faking for 3 x 0:10 in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep (5 x 1M distance) Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep (5 x 5M distance) Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in deep (5 x 1M pass + 5M shot) Receive pass across face in shallow (5 x 2M) Understanding of basic Community Sport I Love Water Polo rules Demonstration of sportsmanship and fair play in game and practice environment Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 52

54 Lesson 1 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review of polo swimming skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (40 minutes) Front crawl Breaststroke Back crawl Head up front crawl with and without ball Trudgeon Water polo back stroke Stop and go Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Passing and catching in shallow Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 53

55 Lesson 2 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review of polo body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (40 minutes) Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Travelling spider Swim pick up ball from underneath and hold above head faking in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 54

56 Lesson 3 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce new polo skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Head up front crawl Zig zag Travelling spider Sliding Swim pick up ball from underneath and hold above head faking in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 55

57 Lesson 4 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce new polo skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Water polo backstroke Roll over Travelling spider Sliding Receive pass across face in shallow Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 56

58 Lesson 5 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Introduce new polo skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Roll over Zig zag Vertical eggbeater Sliding Receive pass across face in shallow Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 57

59 Lesson 6 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Select polo swimming and body position skills Main Part: (40 minutes) Passing and catching in deep Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 58

60 Lesson 7 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review and refine skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (45 minutes) Trudgeon Rollover Stop and go Swim and pick up ball form underneath and pass for accuracy in deep Swim and pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 59

61 Lesson 8 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review and refine skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Passing and catching outside of the Main Part: (45 minutes) Horizontal body position polo ready position Travelling spider Sliding Zig zag Swim and pick up ball form underneath and hold ball above head with faking Swim and pick up ball form underneath and pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 60

62 Lesson 9 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Vertical eggbeater Receive pass across face in shallow Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 61

63 Lesson 10 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Intermediate balancing and coordination activities (dynamic single movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Travelling spider Sliding Receive pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Awards presentation Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile END OF SEASON Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 62

64 Level 4 Practice Plans Level 4 ( /- years of age, 60 minute class, 10 classes) Advanced hand eye coordination activities outside of (multiple movements) Advanced balancing and coordination activities (dynamic multiple movements) Water polo backstroke (sitting back crawl) 4 x 25M Trudgeon (head up front crawl with breaststroke kick) pushing the ball 2 x 25M Zig zag with the ball 15M Rollover 25M Stop and go with the ball 25M Head up front crawl with the ball 2 x 25M Head up front crawl 5 x 5 strokes looking left, 5 strokes looking right Eggbeater in deep 5 x jump left and 5 x jump right Horizontal body position (eggbeater and sculling) for 25M sliding left and right Travelling Spider (horizontal body position moving in circular motion left and right) 25M Feet first travelling (left and right) 10M Pick up ball from on top and hold above head with faking for 3 x 0:15 in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and pass for accuracy in deep (10 x 2M distance) Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep (10 x 5M distance) Receive, pass and shoot for accuracy in deep (10 x 2M pass + 5M shot) Receive pass across face and shoot for accuracy in shallow (5 x 2M pass and 5M shot) Swim 15M, pick up ball from on top, fake for 5M, and shoot at 5M Understanding of basic Community Sport I Love Water Polo rules Demonstration of sportsmanship and fair play in game and practice environment Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 63

65 Lesson 1 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review of polo swimming skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Advanced balancing and coordination activities (dynamic multiple movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Head up front crawl without ball Water polo backstroke Trudgeon with ball Rollover Zig zag Stop and go Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 64

66 Lesson 2 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review of polo body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Advanced balancing and coordination activities (dynamic multiple movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Vertical eggbeater Horizontal body position polo ready position Travelling spider Sliding Swim pick up ball from underneath and hold above head with faking in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 65

67 Lesson 3 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review and develop ball handling skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Advanced hand eye coordination activities outside of (multiple movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Vertical eggbeater with jumping Pick up ball from on top in shallow Receive pass across body and shoot in shallow Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 66

68 Lesson 4 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review and develop ball handling skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Advanced hand eye coordination activities outside of (multiple movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Horizontal body position polo ready position Feet first travelling Pick up ball from on top in shallow Swim pick up ball from underneath pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Swim, fake, and shoot in for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 67

69 Lesson 5 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Review and develop ball handling skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (5-7 minutes) Advanced hand eye coordination activities outside of (multiple movements) Main Part: (40 minutes) Feet first travelling Head up front crawl looking left and right Pick up ball from on top and hold above head with faking in deep Swim pick up ball from underneath pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Swim pick up the ball from on top fake and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 68

70 Lesson 6 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Select polo swimming skills Main Part: (40 minutes) Vertical eggbeater with jumping Passing and catching for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 69

71 Lesson 7 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Refine polo swimming skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Advanced balancing and coordination activities (dynamic multiple movements) Main Part: (45 minutes) Head up front crawl without ball Water polo backstroke Trudgeon with ball Rollover Zig zag Stop and go Swim pick up ball from underneath and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 70

72 Lesson 8 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Refine polo body position skills Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: Advanced balancing and coordination activities (dynamic multiple movements) Main Part: (45 minutes) Vertical eggbeater with jumping Travelling spider Sliding Feet first sliding Passing and catching for accuracy in deep Swim pick up the ball from on top fake and shoot for accuracy in deep Game/activity from coach toolbox relating to above skills Cool Down: (5-7 minutes) Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 71

73 Lesson 9 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Select polo swimming skills Main Part: (40 minutes) Receiving pass across face and shoot for accuracy in shallow Swim pick up the ball from underneath pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 72

74 Lesson 10 Community Sport Initiation I Love Water Polo Location: Suggested area 15m x 15m chest deep Goals: Integrate skills into a polo game Equipment Needed: Kids polo balls; Quickshot nets; pylons; whistle; and other equipment needed for chosen game/activity Introduction: (2-3 minutes) Set up equipment and field of play Ice breaker and greet athletes Establish goals and expectations of practice Warm-up: (10 minutes) Review of ILWP rules Select polo swimming skills Main Part: (40 minutes) Travelling spider Swim pick up the ball from underneath pass and shoot for accuracy in deep Water polo game Cool Down: Front crawl, breaststroke, and back crawl Conclusion: (1-2 minutes) Give brief comments on what went well, what needs improving End with a team cheer Awards presentation Ensure that everyone leaves with a smile END OF SEASON Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 73

75 Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Worksheet Reference Material p Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 74

76 PATIENT INFORMATION LAST NAME: Accident Report Form Date of Report: / / dd mm yyyy FIRST NAME: STREET ADDRESS: CITY: POSTAL CODE: PHONE: ( ) AGE : SEX: M F HEIGHT: WEIGHT: KNOWN MEDICAL CONDITIONS/ALLERGIES: DOB: / / dd / mm / yyyy INCIDENT INFORMATION DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: / / AM dd mm yyyy PM TIME OF FIRST INTERVENTION: AM PM TIME OF MEDICAL SUPPORT ARRIVAL: AM PM CHARGE PERSON, DESCRIBE THE INCIDENT: (what took place, where it took place, what were the signs and symptoms of the patient) PATIENT, DESCRIBE THE INCIDENT: (see above) EVENT & CONDITIONS: (what was the event during which the incident took place, location of incident, surface quality, light, weather etc.): ACTIONS TAKEN/INTERVENTION: After treatment, the patient was: Sent home Sent to hospital/a clinic Returned to activity Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 75

77 CHARGE PERSON INFORMATION LAST NAME: STREET ADDRESS: FIRST NAME: CITY: POSTAL CODE: PHONE: ( ) AGE: ROLE (Coach, assistant, parent, official, bystander, therapist): WITNESS INFORMATION (someone who observed the incident and the response, not the charge person) LAST NAME: STREET ADDRESS: FIRST NAME: CITY: POSTAL CODE: PHONE: ( ) AGE: OTHER COMMENTS OR REMARKS FORM COMPLETED BY: PRINT NAME SIGNATURE Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 76

78 Letter to Parents Example of a letter sent to parents (at the beginning of the season) Participants: children to young teens Dear parents, I am pleased to be contacting you for the first time this season. During the season, I will have occasion to spend many hours with your son/daughter and I hope that you and I will also have the opportunity to meet on a regular basis. I am writing to invite you to an important information meeting that will take place at (location), on (day/date) at (time, indicate AM or PM). The meeting will be approximately one hour long. If there is a particular issue that you wish to discuss with me that is not covered in the meeting, please see me immediately after the meeting. The agenda for the meeting will be as follows: The Directions of the Program - Coaches Presentation - Review of the results of the questionnaire and their impact on our program - Our philosophy and our program The Season - Number of games and tournaments (season and play-offs) - Vacation breaks, family vacations, expected absences, participant/athlete involvement in other sports/activities Organisation - Fees and financing - Payment deadlines - Transportation and what is expected of parents General - Question period It is important for the coaches to be aware of your expectations as parents of us and of the program. This is why I am requesting that you take a few minutes with your son/daughter to complete the attached questionnaires. They will help us build an honest and open relationship and will also help us align our goals and expectations for the program. Team Leaders: Contacts: The best time to reach me is: Coach: name, phone, Assistant-coach: name, phone, Manager: name, phone, **I invite parents who are unable to attend to communicate with me prior to the meeting. Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 77

79 Pre-Season Questionnaire for Parents (Parents of four-year olds to teens) 1. Why did you register your child to participate in polo? 2. What are your expectations of the program leaders, and specifically of the coaches? 3. In your opinion, what goals should be set for the team by the team leaders? 4. Identify values that you think should be promoted by the program. 5. Important facts about your child that team leaders should know (e.g. allergies, health issues, previous injuries). ** Please return the questionnaire at least one week before the parents meeting. Participant s Name Parent/Guardian s Name Date / / (dd/mm/yyyy) Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 78

80 Pre-Season Questionnaire for Participants Reasons Why I am Involved in Water Polo My name: My age: years I am: a girl ( ) a boy ( ) I am involved in polo because This season would be really fun for me if This season would be really fun for our team if When I perform my sport, I think my strengths are I would like the coach to help me improve Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 79

81 Basic and Fundamental Skills Skill Skill Description LTAD Pathway Conditioning and Warm Up Skills Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) Fundamental Movement & Sport Skills Through Cross Training Basic Flexibility & Strength Exercises ABCs: Agility, balance, co-ordination, & speed RJT: Running, jumping, & throwing KGBs: Kinesthetic, gliding, buoyancy, and striking with the body PCKs: Passing, catching, kicking, and striking with an implement Swimming: for safety reasons, for balance in buoyant environment, and the foundation for all other based sports Hard court or grass sports: volleyball, baseball, handball, basketball, dodge ball, soccer, etc. Core strength Shoulder and knee stability Flexibility and stretching Agility and balance Water Polo Body Position Skills Eggbeater Kick Erect sitting position Body is flexed at the hips and knees Head is out of the Arms are bent and extended directly in front of the body slightly out to the side continuously sculling (catching or feeling the ) Legs are in front of the body with the knees spread wide apart The movement is a continuous series of alternating leg kicks- left leg circles counter-clockwise (inward) and the FUNdamentals Technical Foundations FUNdamentals Technical Foundations Active for Life Technical Foundations Active for Life FUNdamentals Technical Foundations Active for Life Water Polo Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada 2009 Page 80 Video Reference Material p