USA WATER POLO RULES/FINA
2005 - 2009
USA Effective Date: January 1, 2006
Original text edited for American English
WP 1
Field of Play & Equipment
WP 2
Goals
WP 3
The Ball
WP 4
Caps
WP 5
Teams and Substitutes
WP 6
Officials
WP 7
Referees
WP 8
Goal Judges
WP 9
Timekeepers
WP 10
Secretaries
WP 11
Duration of the Game
WP 12
Timeouts
WP 13
The Start of Play
WP 14
Method of Scoring
WP 15
Restarting after a Goal
WP 16
Goal Throws
WP 17
Corner Throws
WP 18
Neutral Throws
WP 19
Free Throws
WP 20
Ordinary Fouls
WP 21
Exclusion Fouls
WP 22
Penalty Fouls
WP 23
Penalty Throws
WP 24
Personal Fouls
WP 25
Accident, Injury and Illness
APDX A Instructions for the Use of Two
Referees
APDX B Signals to be Used by Officials
APDX C Regulations for Disciplinary Actions in
Water Polo at FINA Events
WPAG
Age Group Rules
MWP
FINA MASTERS WATER POLO
RULES
FR
FINA FACILITIES RULES
BL
FINA TIE BREAKER RULES
Revised – November 8, 2005
2
WP 1
FIELD OF PLAY & EQUIPMENT
WP 1.1
The promoting organisation shall be
responsible for the correct measurements and
markings of the field of play and shall provide all
stipulated fixtures and equipment.
WP 1.2
The layout and markings of the field of
play for a game officiated by two referees shall be in
accordance with the following diagram:
WP 1.3
In a game officiated by one referee, the
referee shall officiate on the same side as the official
table, and the goal judges shall be situated on the
opposite side.
WP 1.4
The distance between the goal lines shall
be not less than 20 meters and not more than 30
meters for games played by men. The distance
between the goal lines shall be not less than 20
meters and not more than 25 meters for games played
by women. The width of the field of play shall be not
less than 10 meters and not more than 20 meters. The
boundary of the field of play at each end shall be 0.30
meters behind the goal line.
WP 1.5
For FINA events the dimensions of the
field of play, water depth and temperature, and light
intensity shall be as set forth in FR 7.2, FR 7.3, FR
7.4 and FR 8.3.
WP 1.6
Distinctive marks shall be provided on
both sides of the field of play to denote the
following:
(a) White marks - goal line and half distance line
(b) Red marks - 2 meters from goal lines
(c) Yellow marks - 5
meters from goal lines
The sides of the field of play from the goal line to the
2 meter line shall be marked in red; from the 2 meter
line to the 5 meter line shall be marked in yellow and
from the 5 meter line to the half distance line shall be
marked in green.
WP 1.7
A red mark shall be placed at each end of
the field of play, 2 meters from the corner of the field
of play on the side opposite to the official table, to
denote the re-entry area.
WP 1.8
Sufficient space shall be provided to
enable the referees to have free movement from end
to end of the field of play. Space shall also be
provided at the goal lines for the goal judges.
WP 1.9
The secretary shall be provided with
separate red, white and blue flags, each measuring
0.35 meters x 0.20 meters.
WP 2
GOALS
WP 2.1
Two goal posts and a crossbar, rigidly
constructed, rectangular with a dimension of 0.075
meters facing the field of play and painted white shall
be located on the goal lines at each end, equal
distances from the sides and not less than 0.30 meters
in front of the ends of the field of play.
WP 2.2
The inner sides of the goal posts shall be 3
meters apart. When the water is 1.50 meters or more
in depth, the underside of the crossbar shall be 0.90
meters from the water surface. When the water is
less than 1.50 meters in depth, the underside of the
crossbar shall be 2.40 meters from the floor of the
pool.
WP 2.3
Limp nets shall be securely fastened to the
goal posts and crossbar to enclose the entire goal area
and shall be attached to the goal fixtures in such a
manner as to allow not less than 0.30 meters clear
space behind the goal line everywhere within the goal
area.
WP 3 THE BALL
WP 3.1
The ball shall be round and shall have an
air chamber with a self-closing valve. It shall be
waterproof, without external strapping or any
covering of grease or similar substance.
WP 3.2
The weight of the ball shall be not less
than 400 grams and not more than 450 grams.
WP 3.3
For games played by men, the
circumference of the ball shall be not less than 0.68
meters and not more than 0.71 meters, and its
Revised – November 8, 2005
3
pressure shall be 90-97 kPa (kilo Pascal's)(13-14
pounds per square inch atmospheric).
WP 3.4
For games played by women, the
circumference of the ball shall be not less than 0.65
meters and not more than 0.67 meters, and its
pressure shall be 83-90 (kilo Pascal's) (12-13 pounds
per square inch atmospheric).
WP 4 CAPS
WP 4.1
Caps shall be of contrasting color, other
than solid red, as approved by the referees, but also to
contrast with the color of the ball. A team may be
required by the referees to wear white or blue caps.
The goalkeepers shall wear red caps. Caps shall be
fastened under the chin. If a player loses the cap
during play, the player shall replace it at the next
appropriate stoppage of the game when the player’s
team is in possession of the ball. Caps shall be worn
throughout the entire game.
WP 4.2
Caps shall be fitted with malleable ear
protectors which shall be the same color as the team's
caps except that the goalkeeper may have red
protectors.
WP 4.3
Caps shall be numbered on both sides
with numbers 0.10 meters in height. The goalkeeper
shall wear cap no. 1 and the other caps shall be
numbered 2 to 13. A substitute goalkeeper shall wear
a red cap numbered 13. A player shall not be allowed
to change his cap number during the game except with
the permission of a referee and with notification to
the secretary.
WP 4.4
For international games, the caps shall
display on the front the international three letter
country code and may display the national flag. The
country code shall be 0.04 meters in height.
WP 5 TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTES
WP 5.1
Each team shall consist of seven players,
one of whom shall be the goalkeeper and who shall
wear the goalkeeper’s cap, and not more than six
reserves who may be used as substitutes. A team
playing with less than 7 players shall not be required
to have a goalkeeper.
WP 5.2
All players not in the game at that time,
together with the coaches and officials with the
exception of the head coach, shall sit on the team
bench and shall not move away from the bench from
the commencement of play, except during the
intervals between periods or during timeouts. The
head coach of the attacking team shall be allowed to
move to the 5 meter line at any time. Teams shall
only change ends and benches at half time and before
the start of the second period of any extra time. The
team benches shall both be situated on the side
opposite to the official table.
WP 5.3
The captains shall be playing members of
their respective teams and each shall be responsible
for the good conduct and discipline of his team.
WP 5.4
Players shall wear non-transparent
costumes or costumes with a separate undergarment
and before taking part in a game shall remove any
articles likely to cause injury.
WP 5.5
Players shall not have grease, oil or any
similar substance on the body. If a referee ascertains
before the start of play that such a substance has been
used, he shall order it to be removed immediately.
The start of play shall not be delayed for the
substance to be removed. If the offense is detected
after the play has started, the offending player shall
be excluded from the remainder of the game and a
substitute permitted to enter the field of play
immediately from the re-entry area nearest to his own
goal line.
WP 5.6
At any time in the game, a player may be
substituted by leaving the field of play at the re-entry
area nearest to his own goal line. The substitute may
enter the field of play from the re-entry area as soon
as the player has visibly risen to the surface of the
water within the re-entry area. If a goalkeeper is
substituted under this Rule, the substitute shall be
required to wear a goalkeeper’s cap. No substitution
shall be made under this Rule between the time a
referee awards a penalty throw and the taking of the
throw, except at a timeout.
WP 5.7
A substitute may enter the field of play
from any place:
(a) during the intervals between periods of play,
including any periods of extra time;
(b) after a goal has been scored;
(c) during a timeout;
(d) to replace a player who is bleeding or injured.
WP 5.8
A substitute shall be ready to replace a
player without delay. If the substitute is not ready, the
game shall continue without the substitute and, at any
time, the substitute may then enter the field of play
from the re-entry area nearest to the substitute own
goal line.
WP 5.9
A goalkeeper who has been replaced by a
substitute may, if the player returns to the game, play
in any position.
WP 5.10
Should a goalkeeper retire from the game
through any medical reason, the referees shall allow
Revised – November 8, 2005
4
an immediate substitution, subject to one of the
players taking the goalkeeper’s cap.
WP 6 OFFICIALS
WP 6.1
For FINA events the officials shall consist
of two referees, two goal judges, timekeepers and
secretaries, each with the following powers and duties.
Such officials shall also be provided wherever possible
for other events, except that in a game refereed by two
referees and no goal judges, the referees shall assume
the duties (but without making the specified signals)
allocated to the goal judges in WP 8.2.
[Note. Depending on the degree of importance,
games can be controlled by teams of four to eight
officials, as follows:
(a) Referees and goal judges:
Two referees and two goal judges; or two referees
and no goal judges; or one referee and two goal
judges.
(b) Timekeepers and secretaries:
With one timekeeper and one secretary: The
timekeeper shall record the periods of continuous
possession of the ball by each team, in accordance
with WP 20.17. The secretary shall record the exact
periods of actual play, timeouts and the intervals
between periods, maintain the record of the game as
set out in WP 10.1 and shall also record the
respective periods of exclusion of players ordered
from the water in accordance with the Rules.
With two timekeepers and one secretary: Timekeeper
No. 1 shall record the exact periods of actual play,
timeouts and the intervals between periods.
Timekeeper No. 2 shall record the periods of
continuous possession of the ball by each team, in
accordance with WP 20.17. The secretary shall
maintain the record of the game and perform all
other duties as set out in WP 10.1.
With two timekeepers and two secretaries:
Timekeeper No. 1 shall record the exact periods of
actual play, timeouts and the intervals between
periods. Timekeeper No. 2 shall record the periods of
continuous possession of the ball by each team, in
accordance with WP 20.17. Secretary No. 1 shall
maintain the record of the game as set out in WP
10.1(a). Secretary No. 2 shall carry out the duties set
out in WP 10.1(b), (c) and (d) relating to the
improper re-entry of excluded players, improper
entry of substitutes, exclusion of players and the third
personal foul.]
WP 7 REFEREES
WP 7.1
The referees shall be in absolute control of
the game. Their authority over the players shall be
effective during the whole time that they and the
players are within the precincts of the pool. All
decisions of the referees on questions of fact shall be
final and their interpretation of the Rules shall be
obeyed throughout the game. The referees shall not
make any presumption as to the facts of any situation
during the game but shall interpret what they observe
to the best of their ability.
WP 7.2
The referees shall whistle to start and
restart the game and to declare goals, goal throws,
corner throws (whether signalled by the goal judge or
not), neutral throws and infringements of the Rules.
A referee may alter a decision provided it is done
before the ball is put back into play.
WP 7.3
The referees shall refrain from declaring a
foul if, in their opinion, such declaration would be an
advantage to the offending player’s team. The
referees shall not declare an ordinary foul when there
is still a possibility to play the ball.
[Note. The referees shall apply this principle to the
fullest extent. They should not, for example, declare
an ordinary foul in favour of a player who is in
possession of the ball and making progress towards
his opponents’ goal, because this is considered to
give an advantage to the offender’s team.]
WP 7.4
The referees shall have the power to order
any player from the water in accordance with the
appropriate Rule and to abandon the game should a
player refuse to leave the water when so ordered.
WP 7.5
The referees shall have the power to order
the removal from the precincts of the pool any player,
substitute, spectator or official whose behaviour
prevents the referees from carrying out their duties in
a proper and impartial manner.
WP 7.6
The referees shall have the power to
abandon the game at any time if, in their opinion, the
behaviour of the players or spectators, or other
circumstances prevent it from being brought to a
proper conclusion. If the game has to be abandoned
the referees shall report their actions to the competent
authority.
WP 8 GOAL JUDGES
WP 8.1
The goal judges shall be situated on the
same side as the official table, each on the goal line at
the end of the field of play.
WP 8.2
The duties of the goal judges shall be:
Revised – November 8, 2005
5
(a) to signal by raising one arm vertically when the
players are correctly positioned on their
respective goal lines at the start of a period;
(b) to signal by raising both arms vertically for an
improper start or restart;
(c) to signal by pointing with the arm in the
direction of the attack for a goal throw;
(d) to signal by pointing with the arm in the
direction of the attack for a corner throw;
(e) to signal by raising and crossing both arms for a
goal;
(f) to signal by raising both arms vertically for an
improper re-entry of an excluded player or
improper entry of a substitute.
WP 8.3
Each goal judge shall be provided with a
supply of balls and when the original ball has gone
outside the field of play, the goal judge shall
immediately throw a new ball to the goalkeeper (for a
goal throw), to the nearest player of the attacking
team (for a corner throw), or as otherwise directed by
the referee.
WP 9 TIMEKEEPERS
WP 9.1
The duties of the timekeepers shall be:
(a) to record the exact periods of actual play,
timeouts and the intervals between the periods;
(b) to record the periods of continuous possession of
the ball by each team;
(c) to record the exclusion times of players ordered
from the water in accordance with the Rules,
together with the re-entry times of such players
or their substitutes;
(d) to audibly announce the start of the last minute
of the game and of the last minute of the second
period of any extra time;
(e) to signal by whistle after 45 seconds and at the
end of each timeout.
WP 9.2
A timekeeper shall signal by whistle (or
by any other means provided it is distinctive,
acoustically efficient and readily understood), the end
of each period independently of the referees and the
signal shall take immediate effect except:
(a) in the case of the simultaneous award by a
referee of a penalty throw, in which event the
penalty throw shall be taken in accordance with
the Rules;
(b) if the ball is in flight and crosses the goal line, in
which event any resultant goal shall be allowed.
WP 10
SECRETARIES
WP 10.1
The duties of the secretaries shall be:
(a) to maintain the record of the game, including the
players, the score, timeouts, exclusion fouls,
penalty fouls, and personal fouls awarded against
each player;
(b) to control the periods of exclusion of players and
to signal the expiration of the period of exclusion
by raising the appropriate flag; except that a
referee shall signal the re-entry of an excluded
player or a substitute when that player’s team has
retaken possession of the ball;
(c) to signal with the red flag and by whistle for any
improper re-entry of an excluded player or
improper entry of a substitute (including after a
signal by a goal judge to indicate an improper re-
entry or entry), which signal shall stop play
immediately;
(d) to signal, without delay, the award of a third
personal foul against any player as follows:
(i.)
with the red flag if the third personal foul
is an exclusion foul;
(ii.)
with the red flag and a whistle if the third
personal foul is a penalty foul.
WP 11
DURATION OF THE GAME
WP 11.1
The duration of the game shall be four
periods each of eight minutes actual play. Time shall
commence at the start of each period when a player
touches the ball. At all signals for stoppages, the
recording watch shall be stopped until the ball is put
back into play by the ball leaving the hand of the
player taking the appropriate throw or when the ball
is touched by a player following a neutral throw.
WP 11.2
There shall be a two-minute interval
between the first and second periods and between the
third and fourth periods and a five-minute interval
between the second and third periods. The teams,
including the players, coaches and officials, shall
change ends before starting the third period and the
second period of any extra time.
WP 11.3
Should the scores be level at full time in
any game for which a definite result is required, any
continuation into extra time shall be after an interval of
five minutes. There shall then be played two periods
each of three minutes actual play with an interval of
two minutes for the teams to change ends. If at the
end of the two periods of extra time the score is equal,
there shall be a penalty shoot out to determine the
result.
[Note. If a penalty shoot out is necessary, the
following procedure shall be followed:
(a) if it involves the two teams having just completed
a game, the shoot out will begin immediately
and the same referees will be used;
(b) otherwise, the shoot out will occur 30 minutes
following the completion of the final game of
that round, or at the first practical opportunity.
The referees involved in the most recent game of
that round will be used, provided they are
neutral;
Revised – November 8, 2005
6
(c) if two teams are involved the respective coaches
of the teams will be requested to nominate five
players and goalkeeper who will participate in
the penalty shoot out; the goalkeeper may be
changed at any time provided the substitute was
listed amongst the team list in that game;
(d) the five players nominated will be required to be
listed in order and that order will determine the
sequence in which those players will shoot at
their opponents goal; the sequence cannot be
changed;
(e) no players excluded for the game are eligible to
be listed amongst those players to shoot or
substitute as goalkeeper;
(f) if the goalkeeper is excluded during the penalty
shoot out, a player from the nominated five
players may substitute for the goalkeeper but
without the privileges of the goalkeeper;
following the taking of the penalty shot, the
player may be substituted by another player or
alternate goalkeeper;
(g) shots will be taken alternately at either end of the
pool and all players with the exception of the
player shooting and defending goalkeeper will
be required to be seated on team bench;
(h) the team to shoot first will be determined by toss;
(i) should teams still be tied following the completion
of the initial five penalty shots, the same five
players shall then take alternate shots until one
team misses and the other(s) score;
(j) if three or more teams are involved, each team
will shoot five penalty shots against each of the
other teams, alternating at each shot. The order
of the first shot will be determined by draw.]
WP 11.4
Any visible clock shall show the time in a
descending manner (that is, to show the time
remaining in a period).
WP 12
TIMEOUTS
WP 12.1
Each team shall be entitled to three
timeouts in any game
.
The third timeout may only
be requested during extra time. The duration of the
timeout shall be one minute. A timeout may be
requested at any time, including after a goal, by the
coach of the team in possession of the ball calling
“timeout†and signalling to the secretary or referee
with the hands forming a T-shape. If a timeout is
requested, the secretary or referee shall
immediately stop the game by whistle and the
players shall immediately return to their respective
halves of the field of play.
WP 12.2
Play shall be restarted on the whistle of
the referee by the team in possession of the ball
putting the ball into play on or behind the half
distance line, except that if the timeout is requested
before the taking of a penalty throw or corner
throw, that throw shall be maintained.
[Note. The possession clock continues from the
recommencement of the play after the timeout.]
WP 12.3
If the coach of the team in possession of the
ball requests an additional timeout to which the team is
not entitled, the game shall be stopped and play shall
then be restarted by a player of the opposing team
putting the ball into play at the half distance line.
WP 12.4
If the coach of the team not in possession of
the ball requests a timeout, the game shall be stopped
and a penalty throw awarded to the opposing team.
WP 12.5
At the restart following a timeout, players
may take any position in the field of play, subject to the
Rules relating to the taking of penalty throws and
corner throws.
WP 13
THE START OF PLAY
WP 13.1
Before the start of the game and in the
presence of the referees, the captains shall toss a coin,
the winner to have the choice of ends.
WP 13.2
At the start of each period, the players
shall take up positions on their respective goal lines,
about one meter apart and at least one meter from the
goal posts. Not more than two players shall be
allowed between the goal posts. No part of a player’s
body shall be beyond the goal line at water level.
WP 13.3
When the referees are satisfied that the
teams are ready, a referee shall blow the whistle to
start and then release or throw the ball into play on
the half distance line.
WP 13.4
If the ball is released or thrown giving one
team a definite advantage, the referee shall call for
the ball and award a neutral throw on the half
distance line.
WP 14
METHOD OF SCORING
WP 14.1
A goal shall be scored when the entire ball
has passed fully over the goal line, between the goal
posts and underneath the crossbar.
WP 14.2
A goal may be scored from anywhere
within the field of play; except that the goal keeper
shall not be permitted to go or touch the ball beyond
the half distance line.
WP 14.3
A goal may be scored by any part of the
body except the clenched fist. A goal may be
scored by dribbling the ball into the goal. At the
start or any restart of the game, at least two players
(of either team but excluding the defending
Revised – November 8, 2005
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goalkeeper) must intentionally play or touch the
ball except at the taking of:
(a)
a penalty throw;
(b)
a free throw thrown by a player into the
player’s own goal;
(c)
an immediate shot from a goal throw; or
(d)
an immediate shot from a free throw awarded
outside 5 meters.
[Note. A goal may be scored by a player
immediately shooting from outside 5 meters after
the player’s team has been awarded a free throw
for a foul committed outside 5 meters. If the player
puts the ball into play, a goal can then only be
scored if the ball has been intentionally touched by
another player, other than the defending
goalkeeper.
If at the award of a foul the ball is inside 5 meters
or closer to the defending team's goal, a goal may
be scored under this Rule if the ball is returned
without delay to either the place where the foul was
committed, to any place on the same line as the
foul or to any place behind the line of the foul
provided the shot is then immediately made from
that position.
A goal may not be scored under this Rule direct
from the restart following:
(a)
a timeout
(b)
a goal
(c)
an injury, including bleeding
(d)
the replacement of a cap
(e)
the referee calling for the ball
(f)
the ball leaving the side of the field of play
(g)
any other delay.]
WP 14.4
A goal shall be scored if, at the
expiration of 30 seconds possession or at the end of
a period, the ball is in flight and enters the goal.
[Note. In the circumstances of this Rule, if the ball
enters the goal after hitting the goal post, crossbar,
goalkeeper or other defending player, and/or
bouncing off the water, a goal shall be allowed. If
the end of the period has been signalled and the
ball is then played or touched intentionally by
another attacking player on its way into the goal,
the goal shall not be allowed.
If the ball is in flight towards the goal in the
circumstances of this Rule and the goalkeeper or
another defending player pulls down the goal, or
within his own 5 meter area a defending player
other than the goalkeeper stops the ball with two
hands or arms or punches the ball to prevent a
goal being scored, the referee shall award a
penalty throw if, in the referee’s opinion, the ball
would have reached the goal line if the offense had
not occurred.
If the ball which is in flight towards the goal in the
circumstances of this Rule lands on the water and
then floats completely over the goal line, the
referee shall award a goal only if the ball floats
over the goal line immediately due to the
momentum of the shot.]
WP 15
RESTARTING AFTER A GOAL
WP 15.1
After a goal has been scored, the players
shall take up positions anywhere within their
respective halves of the field of play. No part of a
player’s body shall be beyond the half distance line at
water level. A referee shall restart the game by
blowing the whistle. At the time of the restart, actual
play shall resume when the ball leaves the hand of a
player of the team not having scored the goal. A
restart not taken in accordance with this Rule shall be
retaken.
WP 16
GOAL THROWS
WP 16.1
A goal throw shall be awarded:
(a)
when the entire ball has passed fully over the
goal line excluding between the goal posts and
underneath the crossbar, having last been
touched by any player other than the
goalkeeper of the defending team;
(b)
when the entire ball has passed fully over the
goal line between the goal posts and
underneath the crossbar, or strikes the goal
posts, crossbar or the defending goalkeeper
direct from:
(i)
a free throw awarded inside 5 meters;
(ii)
a free throw awarded outside 5 meters not
taken in accordance with the Rules;
(iii)
a goal throw not taken immediately;
(iv)
a corner throw.
WP 16.2
The goal throw shall be taken by any
player of the team from anywhere within the 2
meter area
.
A goal throw not taken in accordance
with this Rule shall be retaken.
[Note. The goal throw shall be taken by the player
nearest to the ball. There should be no undue delay
in taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw,
which must be taken in such a manner so as to
enable the other players to observe the ball leaving
the thrower’s hand. Players often make the mistake
of delaying the throw because they overlook the
provisions of WP 19.4, which permit the thrower to
dribble the ball before passing to another player.
The throw can thus be taken immediately, even
though the thrower cannot at that moment find a
player to whom to pass the ball. On such an
Revised – November 8, 2005
8
occasion, the player is allowed to take the throw
either by dropping it from a raised hand on to the
surface of the water (figure 1) or by throwing it in
the air (figure 2) and then swim with or dribble the
ball. In either case, the throw must be taken so that
the other players are able to observe it.]
Figure
1
Figure
2
WP 17
CORNER THROWS
WP 17.1
A corner throw shall be awarded when the
entire ball has passed fully over the goal line
excluding between the goal posts and underneath the
crossbar, having last been touched by the goalkeeper
of the defending team or when a defending player
deliberately sends the ball over the goal line.
WP 17.2
The corner throw shall be taken by a
player of the attacking team from the 2 meter mark
on the side nearest to which the ball crossed the goal
line. The throw need not be taken by the nearest
player but shall be taken without undue delay.
[Note. For method of taking throw, see note to WP
16.2]
WP 17.3
At the taking of a corner throw no players
of the attacking team shall be within the 2 meter area.
WP 17.4
A corner throw taken from the wrong
position or before the players of the attacking team
have left the 2 meter area shall be retaken.
WP 18
NEUTRAL THROWS
WP 18.1
A neutral throw shall be awarded:
(a) when, at the start of a period, a referee is of the
opinion that the ball has fallen in a position to
the definite advantage of one team;
(b) when one or more players of each team
commit a foul at the same moment which
makes it impossible for the referees to
distinguish which player offended first;
(c) when both referees blow their whistles at the
same moment to award ordinary fouls to the
opposing teams;
(d) when the ball strikes or lodges in an overhead
obstruction.
WP 18.2
At a neutral throw, a referee shall throw
the ball into the field of play at approximately the
same lateral position as the event occurred in such a
manner as to allow the players of both teams to have
equal opportunity to reach the ball. A neutral throw
awarded within the 2 meter area shall be taken on the
2 meter line.
WP 18.3
If at a neutral throw the referee is of the
opinion that the ball has fallen in a position to the
definite advantage of one team, the referee shall call
for the ball and retake the throw.
WP 19
FREE THROWS
WP 19.1
A free throw shall be taken at the place
where the foul occurred, except:
(a)
if the ball is further from the defending team’s
goal, the free throw shall be taken from the
location of the ball;
(b)
if the foul is committed by a defending player
within the defender’s 2 meter area, the free throw
shall be taken on the 2 meter line opposite to
where the foul was committed or, if the ball is
outside the 2 meter area, from the location of the
ball;
(c)
where otherwise provided for in the Rules.
A free throw taken from the wrong position shall be
retaken.
WP 19.2
The time allowed for a player to take a
free throw shall be at the discretion of the referees; it
shall be reasonable and without undue delay but does
not have to be immediate. It shall be an offense if a
player who is clearly in a position most readily to
take a free throw does not do so.
WP 19.3
The responsibility for returning the ball to
the player who is to take the free throw shall be that
of the team to which the free throw is awarded.
WP 19.4
The free throw shall be taken in a manner
to enable the players to observe the ball leaving the
hand of the player taking the throw, who shall also
then be permitted to carry or dribble the ball before
passing to another player. The ball shall be in play
immediately when it leaves the hand of the player
taking the free throw.
[Note. For method of taking throw, see note to WP
16.2]
WP 20
ORDINARY FOULS
WP 20.1
It shall be an ordinary foul to commit any
of the following offenses (WP 20.2 to WP 20.18),
Revised – November 8, 2005
9
which shall be punished by the award of a free throw
to the opposing team.
[Note. The referees must award ordinary fouls in
accordance with the Rules to enable the attacking
team to develop an advantage situation. However,
the referees must have regard to the special
circumstance of WP 7.3 (Advantage).]
WP 20.2
To advance beyond the goal line at the
start of a period, before the referee has given the
signal to start. The free throw shall be taken from the
location of the ball or, if the ball has not been
released into the field of play, from the half distance
line.
WP 20.3
To assist a player at the start of a period or
at any other time during the game.
WP 20.4
To hold on to or push off from the goal
posts or their fixtures, to hold on to or push off from
the sides or ends of the pool during actual play or to
hold on to the rails except at the start of a period.
WP 20.5
To take any active part in the game when
standing on the floor of the pool, to walk when play
is in progress or to jump from the floor of the pool to
play the ball or tackle an opponent. This Rule shall
not apply to the goalkeeper while within the
goalkeeper’s 5 meter area.
WP 20.6
To take or hold the entire ball under the
water when tackled.
[Note. It is an ordinary foul to take or hold the ball
under the water when tackled, even if the player
holding the ball has the ball forced under the water
as a result of the opponent’s challenge (figure 3). It
makes no difference that the ball goes under the
water against the player’s will. What is important is
that the foul is awarded against the player who was
in contact with the ball at the moment it was taken
under the water. It is important to remember that the
offense can only occur when a player takes the ball
under when tackled. Thus, if the goalkeeper emerges
high out of the water to save a shot and then while
falling back takes the ball under the water, the
goalkeeper has committed no offense; but if the
goalkeeper then holds the ball under the water when
challenged by an opponent, the goalkeeper will have
committed an infringement of this Rule and if the
goalkeeper’s actions prevented a probable goal, a
penalty throw must be awarded under WP 22.2.]
Figure 3
WP 20.7
To strike at the ball with a clenched fist.
This Rule shall not apply to the goalkeeper while
within his 5 meter area.
WP 20.8
To play or touch the ball with two hands
at the same time. This Rule shall not apply to the
goalkeeper while within his 5 meter area.
WP 20.9
To impede or otherwise prevent the free
movement of an opponent who is not holding the
ball, including swimming on the opponent’s
shoulders, back or legs. “Holding†is lifting, carrying
or touching the ball but does not include dribbling the
ball.
[Note. The first thing for the referee to consider is
whether the opponent is holding the ball, because if
the player is doing so, the player making the
challenge cannot be penalized for “impedingâ€. It is
clear that a player is holding the ball if it is held
raised above the water (figure 4). The player is also
holding the ball if the player swims with it held in the
hand or makes contact with the ball while it is lying
on the surface of the water (figure 5). Swimming
with the ball (dribbling), as shown in figure 6, is not
considered to be holding.
Figure 5
Figure
4
Figure
6
A common form of impeding is where the player
swims across the opponent’s legs (figure 7), thus
reducing the pace at which the opponent can move
and interfering with the normal leg action. Another
form is swimming on the opponent’s shoulders. It
must also be remembered that the foul of impeding
can be committed by the player who is in possession
of the ball. For example, figure 8 shows a player
Revised – November 8, 2005
10
keeping one hand on the ball and trying to force the
opponent away to gain more space. Figure 9 shows
a player in possession of the ball impeding the
opponent by pushing the opponent back with the
head. Care must be taken with figures 8 & 9,
because any violent movement by the player in
possession of the ball might constitute striking or
even brutality; the figures are intended to illustrate
impeding without any violent movement. A player
may also commit the offense of impeding even if the
player is not holding or touching the ball. Figure 10
shows a player intentionally blocking the opponent
with the player’s body and with the arms flung open,
thus making access to the ball impossible. This
offense is most often committed near the boundaries
of the field of play.]
Figure7
Figure8
Figure
9
Figure
10
WP 20.10
To push or push off from an opponent
who is not holding the ball.
[Note. Pushing can take place in various forms,
including with the hand (figure 11) or with the foot
(figure 12). In the cases illustrated, the punishment
is a free throw for an ordinary foul. However,
referees must take care to differentiate between
pushing with the foot and kicking - which then
becomes an exclusion foul or even brutality. If the
foot is already in contact with the opponent when the
movement begins, this will usually be pushing, but if
the movement begins before such contact with the
opponent is made, then this should generally be
regarded as kicking.]
Figure
11
Figure
12
WP 20.11
For a player of the team in possession of
the ball to commit an offense under WP 20.9 (to
impede an opponent) or WP 20.10 (to push or push
off from an opponent) before a free throw, goal throw
or corner throw is taken.
WP 20.12
To be within two meters of the opponents’
goal except when behind the line of the ball. It shall
not be an offense if a player takes the ball into the 2
meter area and passes it to another player who is
behind the line of the ball and who shoots at goal
immediately, before the first player has been able to
leave the 2 meter area.
[Note. If the player receiving the pass does not shoot
at goal, the player who passed the ball must
immediately leave the 2 meter area to avoid being
penalised under this Rule.]
WP 20.13
To take a penalty throw other than in the
prescribed manner.
[Note. See WP 23.4 for method of taking a penalty
throw.]
WP 20.14
To delay unduly when taking a free throw,
goal throw or corner throw.
[Note. See note to WP 16.2]
WP 20.15
For a goalkeeper to go or touch the ball
beyond the half distance line.
WP 20.16
To send the ball out of the side of the field
of play, including the ball rebounding from the side
of the field of play above water level.
WP 20.17
For a team to retain possession of the
ball for more than 30 seconds of actual play
without shooting at their opponent’s goal. The
timekeeper recording the possession time shall
reset the clock:
(a) when the ball has left the hand of the player
shooting at goal. If the ball rebounds into play
from the goal post, crossbar or the goalkeeper,
the possession time shall not recommence until
Revised – November 8, 2005
11
the ball comes into the possession of one of the
teams;
(b) when the ball comes into the possession of the
opposing team. “Possession†shall not include
the ball merely being touched in flight by an
opposing player;
(c) when the ball is put into play following the award
of an exclusion foul, penalty foul, goal throw,
corner throw or neutral throw.
Visible clocks shall show the time in a descending
manner (that is, to show the possession time
remaining).
[Note. The timekeeper and referees must decide
whether there was a shot goal or not but the referees
have the final decision.]
WP 20.18
To waste time.
[Note. It is always permissible for a referee to
award an ordinary foul under this Rule before the
30 seconds possession period has elapsed.
If the goalkeeper is the only player of the team in
their half of the field of play, it shall be deemed
wasting time for the goalkeeper to receive the ball
from another member of the goalkeeper’s team
who is in the other half of the field of play.
In the last minute, the referees must be certain that
there is intentional wasting time before applying this
Rule.]
WP 21
EXCLUSION FOULS
WP 21.1
It shall be an exclusion foul to commit any
of the following offenses (WP 21.4 to WP 21.17),
which shall be punished (except as otherwise
provided by the Rules) by the award of a free throw
to the opposing team and the exclusion of the player
who committed the foul.
WP 21.2
The excluded player shall move to the re-
entry area nearest to the player’s own goal line
without leaving the water. An excluded player who
leaves the water (other than following the entry of a
substitute) shall be deemed guilty of an offense under
WP 21.10 (Misconduct).
[Note. An excluded player (including any player
excluded under the Rules for the remainder of the
game) shall remain in the water and move (which
may include swimming underwater) to the re-entry
position nearest to the player’s own goal line without
interfering with the play. The player may swim from
the field of play at any point on the goal line and may
swim behind the goal to reach the re-entry area
provided the player does not interfere with the
alignment of the goal.
On reaching the re-entry area, the excluded player
shall be required to visibly rise to the surface of the
water before the player (or a substitute) shall be
permitted to re-enter in accordance with the Rules.
However, it shall not be necessary for the excluded
player to then remain in the re-entry area to await
the arrival of an intended substitute.]
WP 21.3
The excluded player or a substitute shall
be permitted to re-enter the field of play after the
earliest occurrence of one of the following:
(a)
when 20 seconds of actual play have elapsed, at
which time the secretary shall raise the
appropriate flag provided that the excluded
player has reached the re-entry area in
accordance with the Rules;
(b)
when a goal has been scored;
(c)
when the excluded player’s team has retaken
possession of the ball (which means receiving
control of the ball) during actual play, at which
time the defensive referee shall signal re-entry by
a hand signal;
(d)
when the excluded player’s team is awarded a
free throw or goal throw, the referee’s signal to
award the throw qualifies as the re-entry signal,
provided that the excluded player has reached
the re-entry area in accordance with the Rules.
The excluded player or a substitute shall be permitted
to re-enter the field of play from the re-entry area
nearest to the player’s own goal line, provided that:
(a)
the player has received a signal from the
secretary or a referee;
(b)
the player shall not jump or push off from the
side or wall of the pool or field of play;
(c)
the player shall not affect the alignment of the
goal;
(d)
a substitute shall not be permitted to enter in the
place of an excluded player until that player has
reached the re-entry area nearest to the player’s
own goal line.
After a goal has been scored an excluded player or a
substitute may re-enter the field of play from any
place.
These provisions shall also apply to the entry of a
substitute when the excluded player has received
three personal fouls or has otherwise been excluded
from the remainder of the game in accordance with
the Rules.
[Note. A substitute shall not be signalled in by a
referee and nor shall the secretary signal the
Revised – November 8, 2005
12
expiration of 20 seconds exclusion period until the
excluded player has reached the re-entry area
nearest to the player’s own goal line. This shall also
apply to the re-entry of a substitute who is to replace
a player excluded from the remainder of the game.
In the event of an excluded player failing to return to
the player’s re-entry area, a substitute shall not be
permitted to enter until a goal has been scored or at
the end of a period.
The primary responsibility for giving the signal for
the re-entry of an excluded player or a substitute is
with the defensive referee. However, the attacking
referee may also assist in this regard and the signal
of either referee shall be valid. If a referee suspects
an improper re-entry or the goal judge signals such
an improper re-entry, then the referee should first be
satisfied that the other referee had not signalled the
re-entry.
Before giving the signal for the re-entry of an
excluded player or a substitute, the defensive referee
should wait momentarily in case the attacking referee
whistles to restore possession to the opponent’s team.
A change of possession does not occur merely
because of the end of a period, but an excluded
player or substitute shall be eligible to re-enter if the
team wins the ball at the swim up at the start of the
next period. If a player is excluded when the end of a
period is signalled, the referees and the secretary
shall ensure that the teams have the correct number
of players before signalling for the restart.]
WP 21.4
For a player to leave the water or sit or
stand on the steps or side of the pool during play,
except in the case of accident, injury, illness or with
the permission of a referee.
WP 21.5
To interfere with the taking of a free
throw, goal throw or corner throw, including:
(a)
intentionally to throw away or fail to release the
ball to prevent the normal progress of the game;
(b)
any attempt to play the ball before it has left the
hand of the thrower.
[Note. A player is not to be penalised under this Rule
if the player does not hear the whistle as a result of
being under the water. The referees must determine if
the actions of the player are intentional.
Interference with a throw may take place indirectly
when the ball is hampered, delayed or prevented
from reaching the player who is to take the throw, or
it may occur when the execution of the throw is
interfered with by an opponent blocking the direction
of the throw (figure 13) or by disturbing the actual
movement of the thrower (figure 14). For interference
with a penalty throw, see also WP 21.16.]
Figure
13
Figure
14
WP 21.6
To attempt to play or block a shot with
two hands outside the 5 meter area.
[Note. If a defending player who is outside the 5
meter area raises two hands in an attempt to play or
block a shot on a goal, the player shall be excluded.]
WP 21.7
To splash in the face of an opponent
intentionally.
[Note. Splashing is frequently used as an unfair
tactic but is often only penalised in the obvious
situation when players are facing one another (see
figure 15). However, it can also occur less obviously
when a player produces a curtain of water with an
arm, seemingly without deliberate intent, in an
attempt to block the view of the opponent who is
about to shoot at goal or to make a pass.
Figure 15
The punishment for intentionally splashing an
opponent is exclusion under WP 21.7 or a penalty
throw under WP 22.2 if the opponent is inside the 5
meter area and is attempting to shoot at goal.
Whether to award a penalty throw or an exclusion is
decided solely by the positioning and actions of the
attacking player; whether the offending player is
inside the 5 meter area or outside is not a decisive
factor.]
WP 21.8
To hold, sink or pull back an opponent
who is not holding the ball. “Holding†is lifting,
carrying or touching the ball, but does not include
dribbling the ball.
Revised – November 8, 2005
13
[Note. The correct application of this Rule is very
important both as to the presentation of the game
and in arriving at a proper and fair result. The
wording of the Rule is clear and explicit and can
only be interpreted in one way: to hold (figure 16),
sink (figure 17) or pull back (figure 18) an opponent
who is not holding the ball is an exclusion foul. It is
essential that referees apply this Rule correctly,
without personal arbitrary interpretation, to ensure
that the proper limits to rough play are not exceeded.
In addition, referees must note that an infringement
of WP 21.8 within the 5 meter area which prevents a
probable goal must be punished by the award of a
penalty throw.]
Figure 16
Figure
17
Figure
18
WP 21.9
To kick or strike an opponent
intentionally or make disproportionate movements
with that intent.
[Note. The offense of kicking or striking can take a
number of different forms, including being committed
by a player in possession of the ball or by an
opposing player; possession of the ball is not a
decisive factor. What is important is the action of the
offending player, including if the player makes
disproportionate movements in an attempt to kick or
strike, even if the player fails to make contact.
One of the most serious acts of striking is elbowing
backwards (figure 19), which can result in serious
injury to the opponent. Similarly, serious injury can
occur when a player intentionally heads back into the
face of an opponent who is marking the player
closely. In these circumstances, the referee would
also be justified in punishing the offense under WP
21.11 (Brutality) rather than under WP 21.9]
Figure 19
WP 21.10
To be guilty of misconduct, including the
use of unacceptable language, violent or persistent
foul play, to 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. The offending player shall be excluded
from the remainder of the game, with substitution
after the earliest occurrence referred to in WP 21.3.
[Note If a member of a team commits any offense
mentioned in this Rule during the interval between
periods, during a time out or prior to the restart of
play after his team has scored a goal, the player
shall be excluded from the remainder of the game
and substitution shall be permitted when, after the
interval pause, the excluded player’s team has taken
possession of the ball (which means receiving
control of the ball), or in the other situations, after
the earliest occurrence referred to in WP 21.3]
WP 21.11
To commit an act of brutality (including
kicking or striking or attempting to kick or strike with
malicious intent) against an opponent or official,
whether during play (including any stoppages or
timeouts) or the intervals between periods of play.
The offending player shall be excluded from the
remainder of the game and a penalty throw awarded
to the opposing team. The offending player may be
substituted when four minutes of actual play have
elapsed.
[Notes. This Rule shall also apply if an act of
brutality occurs during the intervals between periods
and a penalty throw shall be awarded. These
provisions shall not apply, however, before the game
has actually commenced.
In the case of brutality at any time by a substitute
who is not in the water during the play, the offending
player shall be excluded from the remainder of the
game. The captain of the team shall be ordered to
remove from the water a player of the captain’s
choice and the team shall continue with one less
player for four minutes. The player who has been
removed can subsequently be used during the
remainder of the game as one of the team’s
remaining players in the water and no personal foul
Revised – November 8, 2005
14
shall be awarded in relation to the player’s removal
from the water.]
WP 21.12
For a player of the team not in possession
of the ball to commit any of the following offenses
before a free throw, goal throw, corner throw or
penalty throw is taken or for a player of either team
to commit any of the following offenses before a
neutral throw is taken:
WP 20.9 - to impede an opponent
WP 20.10 - to push or push off from an opponent
WP 21.4 to WP 21.11 - to commit an exclusion foul
The original throw (including any neutral throw)
shall be maintained. The player shall be excluded
from the remainder of the game where the Rules so
provide.
WP 21.13
For a player of each team to commit any
of the following offenses simultaneously before a
free throw, goal throw, corner throw, penalty throw
or neutral throw is taken:
WP 20.9 - to impede an opponent
WP 20.10 - to push or push off from an opponent
WP 21.4 to WP 21.11 - to commit an exclusion foul
Both players shall be excluded and the team in attack
shall maintain possession of the ball. Players shall be
excluded from the remainder of the game where the
Rules so provide.
[Notes. Both players excluded under this Rule, shall
be permitted to re-enter at the next earliest
occurrence referred to in WP 21.3 or at the next
change of possession.
If the two players who have been excluded under this
Rule are eligible to re-enter before they have reached
their respective re-entry areas, the defensive referee
may wave in each player as soon as they are ready to
re-enter. The referee does not have to wait until both
players are ready to re-enter.
The team in possession of the ball when the
simultaneous fouls were committed shall restart the
play by taking the free throw, goal throw, comer
throw or penalty throw. In the case of a neutral
throw, the referee shall restart the play in
accordance with WP 18.]
WP 21.14
For a player of the team in possession to
commit an offense under WP 21.4 to WP 21.11
(exclusion fouls) before a free throw, goal throw,
corner throw or penalty throw is taken; except that:
(a)
the player shall be excluded from the remainder
of the game where the Rules so provide;
(b)
if the offense is committed at the taking of a
penalty throw, the penalty throw shall be
maintained.
WP 21.15
For an excluded player to re-enter or a
substitute to enter the field of play improperly,
including:
(a)
without having received a signal from the
secretary or referee;
(b)
from any place other than the player’s own re-
entry area, except where the Rules provide for
immediate substitution;
(c)
by jumping or pushing off from the side or wall
of the pool or field of play;
(d)
by affecting the alignment of the goal.
If this offense is committed by a player of the team
not in possession of the ball, the offending player
shall be excluded and a penalty throw awarded to the
opposing team.
If this offense is committed by a player of the team in
possession of the ball, the offending player shall be
excluded and a free throw awarded to the opposing
team.
WP 21.16
To interfere with the taking of a penalty
throw. The offending player shall be excluded from
the remainder of the game with substitution after the
earliest occurrence referred to in WP 21.3 and the
penalty throw shall be maintained or re-taken as
appropriate.
[Note. The most common form of interference with a
penalty throw is when an opponent aims a kick at the
player taking the throw, just as the throw is about to
be taken. It is essential for the referees to ensure that
all players are at least 2 meters from the thrower, to
prevent such interference taking place. The referee
should also allow the defending team the first right to
take position.]
WP 21.17
For the defending goalkeeper to fail to
take up the correct position on the goal line at the
taking of a penalty throw having been ordered once
to do so by the referee. Another defending player
may take the position of the goalkeeper but without
the goalkeeper’s privileges or limitations.
WP 21.18
When a player is excluded, the exclusion
period shall commence immediately when the ball
has left the hand of the player taking the free throw or
when the ball has been touched following a neutral
throw.
Revised – November 8, 2005
15
WP 21.19
If an excluded player intentionally
interferes with play, including affecting the alignment
of the goal, a penalty throw shall be awarded to the
opposing team and a further personal foul awarded
against the excluded player. If the excluded player
does not commence leaving the field of play almost
immediately, the referee may deem this to be
intentional interference under this Rule.
WP 21.20
In the event of the game continuing into
extra time, the exclusion period of any excluded
player shall also continue into the extra time.
Personal fouls awarded during the periods of normal
time shall also carry forward into extra time and any
player excluded under the Rules from the remainder
of the game shall not be permitted to take part in any
periods of extra time.
WP 22
PENALTY FOULS
WP 22.1
It shall be a penalty foul to commit any of
the following offenses (WP 22.2 to WP 22.7), which
shall be punished by the award of a penalty throw to
the opposing team.
WP 22.2
For a defending player to commit any
foul within the 5 meter area but for which a goal
would probably have resulted.
[Notes. In addition to other offenses preventing a
probable goal, it is an offense within the meaning of
this Rule:
(a)
for a goalkeeper or other defending player to
pull down or otherwise displace the goal (figure
20);
(b)
for a defending player intentionally to play or
attempt to play the ball or block a shot with two
hands (figure 21);
(c)
for a defending player intentionally to block or
attempt to block a pass with two hands;
(d)
for a defending player to play the ball with a
clenched fist (figure 22);
(e)
for a goalkeeper or other defending player to
take the ball under the water when tackled.
It is important to note that while the fouls described
above, and other fouls such as holding, pulling back,
impeding, etc., would normally be punished by a free
throw (and exclusion if appropriate), they become
penalty fouls if committed within the 5 meter area by
a defending player if a probable goal would
otherwise have been scored.]
Figure 20
Figure
21
Figure
22
WP 22.3
For a defending player within the 5 meter
area to kick or strike an opponent or to commit an act
of brutality. In the case of brutality, the offending
player shall also be excluded from the remainder of
the game, and a substitute may enter the field of play
after four minutes of actual play have elapsed, in
addition to the award of the penalty throw.
WP 22.4
For an excluded player intentionally to
interfere with play, including affecting the alignment
of the goal.
WP 22.5
For a goalkeeper or any other defending
player to pull over the goal completely with the
object of preventing a probable goal. The offending
player shall also be excluded from the remainder of
the game, with substitution after the earliest
occurrence referred to in WP 21.3.
WP 22. 6
For a player or substitute who is not
entitled under the Rules to participate in the play at
that time to enter the field of play. The offending
player shall also be excluded from the remainder of
the game with substitution. The substitute may enter
the field of play after the earliest occurrence referred
to in WP 21.3.
WP 22.7
For the coach of the team not in
possession of the ball to request a timeout or for a
team official to take any action to prevent a probable
goal; except that no personal foul shall be recorded
for this offense.
WP 22.8
If in the last minute of the game a penalty
throw is awarded to a team, the coach may elect to
maintain possession of the ball and be awarded a free
Revised – November 8, 2005
16
throw. The timekeeper recording possession time
shall reset the clock.
[Note. It is the responsibility of the coach to give a
clear signal without delay if the team wishes to
maintain possession of the ball in accordance with
this Rule.]
WP 23
PENALTY THROWS
WP 23.1
A penalty throw shall be taken by any
player of the team to which it is awarded, except the
goalkeeper, from any point on the opponents’ 5 meter
line.
WP 23.2
All players shall leave the 5 meter area
and shall be at least two meters from the player
taking the throw. On each side of the player taking
the throw, one player of the defending team shall
have the first right to take position. The defending
goalkeeper shall be positioned between the goal posts
with no part of his body beyond the goal line at water
level. Should the goalkeeper be out of the water,
another player may take the position of the
goalkeeper but without the goalkeeper’s privileges
and limitations.
WP 23.3
When the referee controlling the taking of
the throw is satisfied that the players are in their
correct positions the referee shall signal for the throw
to be taken, by whistle and by simultaneously
lowering the arm from a vertical to a horizontal
position.
[Note. The lowering of the arm at the same time as
the signal by whistle makes it possible under any
conditions, even amidst noise by spectators, to
execute the throw in accordance with the Rules. As
the arm is lifted, the player taking the throw will
concentrate, for the player knows that the signal will
follow immediately.]
WP 23.4
The player taking the penalty throw shall
have possession of the ball and shall immediately
throw it with an uninterrupted movement directly at
the goal. The player may take the throw by lifting the
ball from the water (figure 23) or with the ball held in
the raised hand (figure 24) and the ball may be taken
backwards from the direction of the goal in
preparation for the forward throw, provided that the
continuity of the movement shall not be interrupted
before the ball leaves the thrower’s hand.
[Note. There is nothing in the Rules to prevent a
player taking the throw with the player’s back to the
goal while the player adopts a half screw or full
screw action.]
Figure
23
Figure
24
WP 23.5
If the ball rebounds from the goal post,
crossbar or goalkeeper it remains in play and it shall
not be necessary for another player to play or touch
the ball before a goal can be scored.
WP 23.6
If at precisely the same time as the referee
awards a penalty throw the timekeeper whistles for
the end of a period, all players except the player
taking the throw and the defending goalkeeper shall
leave the water before the penalty throw is taken. In
this situation, the ball shall immediately be dead
should it rebound into play from the goal post,
crossbar or the goalkeeper.
WP 24
PERSONAL FOULS
WP 24.1
A personal foul shall be recorded against
any player who commits an exclusion foul or penalty
foul. The referee shall indicate the offending player’s
cap number to the secretary.
WP 24.2
Upon receiving a third personal foul, a
player shall be excluded from the remainder of the
game with substitution after the earliest occurrence
referred to in WP 21.3. If the third personal foul is a
penalty foul, the entry of the substitute shall be
immediate.
WP 25
ACCIDENT, INJURY AND ILLNESS
WP 25.1
A player shall only be allowed to leave the
water, or sit or stand on the steps or side of the pool
during play in the case of accident, injury, illness or
with the permission of a referee. A player who has
left the water legitimately may re-enter from the re-
entry area nearest his own goal line at an appropriate
stoppage, with the permission of a referee.
WP 25.2
If a player is bleeding, the referee shall
immediately order the player out of the water with
the immediate entry of a substitute and the game shall
continue without interruption. After the bleeding has
stopped, the player is permitted to be a substitute in
the ordinary course of the game.
WP 25.3
If accident, injury or illness, other than
bleeding, occurs, a referee may at the referee’s
discretion suspend the game for not more than three
minutes, in which case the referee shall instruct the
Revised – November 8, 2005
17
timekeeper as to when the stoppage period is to
commence.
WP 25.4
Should the game be stopped through
accident, injury, illness, bleeding or other unforeseen
reason, the team in possession of the ball at the time of
the stoppage shall put the ball into play at the place of
stoppage when the play is resumed.
WP 25.5
Except in the circumstances of WP 25.2
(bleeding), the player shall not be allowed to take
further part in the game if a substitute has entered.
Revised – November 8, 2005
18
APPENDIX A
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE OF TWO
REFEREES
1.
The referees are in absolute control of the game
and shall have equal powers to declare fouls and
penalties. Differences of opinion of the referees
shall not serve as a basis for protest or appeal.
2.
The committee or organisation appointing the
referees shall have power to designate the side of
the pool from which each referee shall officiate.
Referees shall change sides of the pool before the
start of any period when the teams do not change
ends.
3.
At the start of the game and of each period, the
starting signal shall be given by the referee on the
same side as the official table.
4
.
After a goal, the signal to restart shall be given by
the referee who was controlling the attacking
situation when the goal was scored. Before
restarting, the referees shall ensure that any
substitutions have been completed.
5.
Each referee shall have the power to declare fouls
in any part of the field of play but each referee
shall give their primary attention to the offensive
situation attacking the goal to their right. The
referee not controlling the attacking situation (the
defensive referee) shall maintain a position no
closer to the goal being attacked than that player
of the attacking team furthest back from the goal.
6.
When awarding a free throw, goal throw or
corner throw, the referee making the decision
shall blow the whistle and both referees shall
indicate the direction of the attack, to enable
players in different parts of the pool to see
quickly which team has been awarded the throw.
The referee making the decision shall point to
where the throw is to be taken if the ball is not at
that position. Referees shall use the signals set
out in Appendix B to indicate the nature of the
fouls which they are penalising.
7.
The signal for a penalty throw to be taken shall
be made by the attacking referee, except that a
player who wishes to take the throw with the left
hand may request the defensive referee to make
the signal.
8.
When simultaneous free throws are awarded by
both referees to the same team, the award shall go
to the player awarded the throw by the attacking
referee.
9.
When simultaneous awards are made for ordinary
fouls but for opposing teams, the award shall be a
neutral throw, to be taken by the attacking
referee.
10.
When one referee awards an exclusion foul and at
the same moment the other referee awards a
penalty foul but for opposing teams, both the
offending players shall be excluded and a neutral
throw awarded.
11.
When simultaneous awards are made by both
referees and one is for an ordinary foul and the
other is for an exclusion foul or penalty foul, the
exclusion foul or penalty foul award shall be
applied.
12.
When players of both teams commit an exclusion
foul simultaneously, whether during actual play
or in dead time, the offending players shall be
excluded and the team in possession shall restart
play with a free throw or, if the exclusion fouls
are committed in dead time, with the free throw
already awarded to the team in possession.
13.
In the event of simultaneous awards of penalty
throws to both teams, the first throw shall be
taken by the team last in possession of the ball.
After the second penalty has been taken, the
game shall be restarted with a neutral throw on
the half distance line.
Revised – November 8, 2005
19
APPENDIX B
SIGNALS TO BE USED BY OFFICIALS
Fig. A
The referee lowers the arm from a vertical
position to signal (i) the start of the period (ii)
to restart after a goal (iii) the taking of a penalty
throw.
Fig. B
To point with one arm in the direction of the
attack and to use the other arm to indicate the
place where the ball is to be put into play at a
free throw, goal throw or corner throw.
Fig. C
To signal a neutral throw. The referee points to
the place where the neutral throw has been
awarded, points both thumbs up and calls for
the ball.
Fig. D
To signal the exclusion of a player. The referee
points to the player and then moves the arm
quickly towards the boundary of the field of
play. The referee then signals the excluded
player’s cap number so that it is visible to the
field of play and the table.
Fig. E
To signal the simultaneous exclusion of two
players. The referee points with both hands to
the two players, signals their exclusion in
accordance with Fig. D, and then immediately
signals the players’ cap numbers.
Fig. F
To signal the exclusion of a player with
substitution. The referee signals exclusion in
accordance with Fig. D (or Fig. E if
appropriate) and then rotates the hands round
one another in such a way that is visible to both
the field of play and the table. The referee then
signals the excluded player’s cap number to the
table.
Fig. G
To signal the exclusion of a player without
substitution. The referee signals exclusion in
accordance with Fig. D (or Fig. E if
appropriate) and then crosses the arms in such a
way that is visible to both the field of play and
the table. The referee then signals the excluded
player’s cap number to the table.
Fig. H
To signal the award of a penalty throw. The
referee raises an arm with five
fingers in the air.
The referee then signals the offending player’s
cap number to the table.
Fig. I
To signal that a goal has been scored. The
referee signals by whistle and by immediately
pointing to the centre of the field of play.
Fig. J
To indicate the exclusion foul of holding an
opponent. The referee makes a motion holding
the wrist of one hand with the other hand.
Fig. K
To indicate the exclusion foul of sinking an
opponent. The referee makes a downward
motion with both hands starting from a
horizontal position.
Fig. L
To indicate the exclusion foul of pulling back
an opponent. The referee makes a pulling
motion with both hands vertically extended and
pulling towards his body.
Fig. M
To indicate the exclusion foul of kicking an
opponent. The referee makes a kicking
movement.
Fig. N
To indicate the exclusion foul of striking an
opponent. The referee makes a striking motion
with a closed fist starting from a horizontal
position.
Fig. O
To indicate the ordinary foul of pushing or
pushing off from an opponent. The referee
makes a pushing motion away from the body
starting from a horizontal position.
Fig. P
To indicate the ordinary foul of impeding an
opponent. The referee makes a crossing motion
with one hand horizontally crossing the other.
Fig. Q
To indicate the ordinary foul of taking the ball
under the water. The referee makes a downward
motion with a hand starting from a horizontal
position.
Fig. R
To indicate the ordinary foul of standing on the
bottom of the pool. The referee raises and
lowers one foot.
Fig. S
To indicate the ordinary foul of undue delay in
the taking of a free throw, goal throw or corner
throw. The referee raises a hand once or twice
with the palm turned upwards.
Fig. T
To indicate a violation of the two-meter Rule.
The referee indicates the number 2 by raising
the fore and middle fingers in the air with the
arm vertically extended.
Fig. U
To indicate the ordinary fouls of wasting time
and expiry of 30 seconds’ possession. The
Revised – November 8, 2005
20
referee moves a hand in a circular motion two
or three times.
Fig. V
By a goal judge to signal for the start of a period, a
goal throw or corner throw.
Fig. W
By a goal judge to signal an improper start, restart
or improper re-entry of an excluded player or
substitute.
Fig. X
By a goal judge to signal a goal throw or corner
throw.
Fig. Y
By a goal judge to signal a goal.
Fig. Z
To indicate a player’s cap number. To enable the
referee to communicate better with the players and
the secretary, signals are made using both hands if
appropriate where the number exceeds five. One
hand shows five fingers with the other hand
showing additional fingers to make up the sum of
the player’s number. For the number ten, a
clenched fist is shown. If the number exceeds ten,
one hand is shown as a clenched fist with the other
hand showing additional fingers to make up the
sum of the player’s number.
Revised – November 8, 2005
21
APPENDIX C
REGULATIONS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS IN
WATER POLO
PREAMBLE
: These Regulations contain basic regulations
for fair play, ethical and moral behaviour, and general
discipline in Water Polo
.
These Regulations include measures related to incidents
involving teams, water polo Federations, water polo
sections of Member Federations, players, team leaders and
officials, supporters, spectators but also involving officials
or any other persons present at water polo matches.
The Regulations shall be in force from 1 August 2001 and
replace the Code adopted by the FINA Bureau on 28
th
March 2001.
The purpose of these Regulations are to guarantee that the
sport of Water Polo will be played in a fair manner without
disturbance and to sanction incidents, which damage the
image of Water Polo or bring it into disrepute.
Article 1. SUBORDINATE AND SUPPLEMENTARY
TO FINA RULES
These Regulations are subordinated and supplementary to
all FINA Rules adopted by the FINA Congresses from time
to time and the FINA Code of Conduct.
Article 2. OFFENSES BY OFFICIALS
2.1
The sanctions to be imposed for offenses
committed by any person appointed by FINA as
delegate, referee, goal judge or serving at the table at
any water polo match shall be suspension from
participating further in the tournament in which the
match occurred and a report shall be made to the FINA
Bureau, or if the Bureau is not assembled, to the FINA
Executive, for consideration of additional sanctions.
2.2
If a person, appointed by FINA as a delegate,
referee, goal judge or serving at the table at a water
polo match, commits an offense referred to in these
Regulations or the FINA Code of Conduct and
involving cheating or partiality, the person shall be
suspended up to life.
Article 3.
OFFENSES AGAINST OFFICIALS
3.1
Any offense committed by any member of a
team or team official shall result in a minimum
suspension of one (1) match up to a maximum
suspension of all water polo matches for one (1) year
period.
3.2
If the offense includes violence resulting in
serious injury, use of any hard object or any other kind
of violence against the body, the minimum suspension
shall be for all water polo matches for one (1) year
period up to a maximum of a lifetime suspension from
water polo matches
.
3.3
If the offense is an attempt to commit an
offense referred to in 3.2, the minimum suspension
shall be three (3) matches up to a maximum suspension
of all water polo matches for one (1) year period.
3.4
Offenses in 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 involve acts
committed from 30 minutes before the beginning of the
match until 30 minutes after the end of the match.
3.5
If an offense referred to in 3.1, 3.2 or 3.3 is
committed by any person other than a player or team
official, the minimum sanction shall be a warning or
exclusion from the venue up to a maximum sanction of
suspension of the right to attend water polo matches for
any period up to, and including, life.
3.6
The minimum sanction for any offense under
Article 3 may be increased for a second or subsequent
offense by any individual.
Article 4. OFFENSES AGAINST TEAM MEMBERS
OR TEAM OFFICIALS
4.1
For brutality, or any offense not covered in
FINA Rules WP 20-22 committed by a player against
other players or team officials, the minimum suspension
shall be for one (1) match up to a maximum of all water
polo matches for a one (1) year period.
4.2
If the offense is committed by a team official
against any player or team official, the minimum
suspension shall be one (1) match up to a maximum of
a lifetime suspension from water polo matches.
4.3
If the offense is committed by any other
person, the minimum sanction shall be expulsion from
the venue up to a maximum of a suspension of the right
to attend water polo matches for any period up to, and
including, life.
4.4
The minimum sanction for any offense under
Article 4 may be increased for a second or subsequent
offense by any individual.
Article 5. OTHER OFFENSES
5.1
For any offense committed by any team
member or team official against media representatives,
spectators, pool staff or any other person present in the
venue at the time of a match, the minimum suspension
shall be from all water polo matches for a one (1) year
period up to a maximum of suspension of the right to
attend competitions for any period up to, and including,
life.
5.2
For oral or written statements of an abusive
kind or nature and directed against FINA, any
Federation, any organizer, authority or any other
Revised – November 8, 2005
22
person, and which are not elsewhere covered in this
Code, the minimum sanction shall be suspension for a
period of six (6) months up to a maximum suspension
for life.
5.3
The minimum sanction for any offense under
Article 5 may be increased for such period as the
Management Committee deems appropriate.
Article 6. OFFENSES COMMITTED BY TEAMS
6.1
If more than three members of the same
team, including team officials, commit offenses
sanctioned in accordance with Articles 3, 4 or 5 in the
same match, that team shall be sanctioned with
disqualification from that match and a minimum
suspension from the next match in the tournament to a
maximum suspension from taking part in any
competition organised by the same body
for a period
of one (1) year.
6.2
Suspension in 6.1 means that the match or
matches for which the team has been suspended shall
be awarded to the opponent(s) with the goal score of
5-0.
Article 7.
PROCEDURES FOR IMPOSING
SANCTIONS
7.1
Sanctions for offenses in 3.1 and 3.5 shall be
imposed by the Management Committee
within 24
hours after the end of the match, with immediate
notification to the player(s), team official(s), or other
person(s) suspended.
7.2
The Management Committee shall have the
right to provisionally suspend any person or team who
has committed offenses in 2.1, 2.2, 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2,
4.3 5.1, 5.2, and 6.1, subject to immediate written
submission of the case to the FINA Bureau or, Board
of the Organizing body.
7.3
Sanctions in accordance with 2.1, 2.2, 3.2,
3.3, 3.5, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, and 6.1 shall
be imposed by the. Board of the Organizing body.
7.4
Sanction involving disqualification and
suspension of a team from one or more matches in the
same tournament shall be imposed by the Management
Committee within 24 hours after the end of the match
and immediate notification to the team officials, the
Federation of the team and the Board of the
Organizing body.
7.5
Sanctions involving suspension of a team in
accordance with 6.1 for a period covering more than
the actual tournament shall be imposed by the Board
of the Organizing body.
7.6
As used in these Regulations "suspension" for
offenses other than in 3.1, 3.2, 3.5 and 4.1 shall mean,
as may be specified by the Board of the Organizing
body, from competitions or that the individual
sanctioned shall not participate in any or certain
activities of FINA, the recognized continental
organisations or any of FINA's Member Federations, in
any discipline of FINA including acting as a
competitor, delegate, coach, leader, physician or other
representative of FINA, a recognized continental
organisation or a Member Federation. A suspension
shall take effect from the date specified by the
competent authority.
7.7
If a player or team official is suspended from
a specific match, the team shall have the number of
players or team officials on the bench reduced
accordingly; provided that there is at least one (1) team
official on the bench.
Article 8. BURDEN OF PROOF
8.1
Referees, match officials or the competition
management shall have the burden of establishing that
offenses in the Water Polo Rules and these Regulations
have occurred.
In imposition of any sanction, the nature of the offense,
the circumstances under which it occurred, the gravity
of the offense, the character of the action and other
consideration that is in harmony with the objectives of
FINA must be taken into account.
Article 9. APPEALS
9.1
An individual sanctioned by the Management
Committee may appeal to the Board of the Organizing
body within 21 days from the date of receipt of the
decision including a sanction of the appealing party and
further in accordance with the rules of the body
concerned.
Revised – November 8, 2005
23
AGE GROUP RULES - WATER POLO
WPAG 1
All age group competitors remain qualified
from 1 January to the following 31 December at their age at
the close of day (12 midnight) on 31 December of the year of
competition.
WPAG 2
Age groupings for Water Polo for boys and
girls are as follows:
15 years of age and under
16 and 17 years of age
18, 19 and 20 years of age
The age for Junior World Championships is 20 years and
under.
FINA MASTERS WATER POLO RULES
MWP1
Age groups for Masters Water Polo shall apply
for men, mixed, and women teams.
MWP2
The age of the youngest member of the team
determines the age group of the team. There are no
restrictions on the ages of any players older than the
youngest player on the team.
MWP3
Age groups for teams are at five-year intervals
beginning with 30. i.e. 30+, 35+, 40+. . . .
MWP4
Women players may be members of men's
teams.
MWP5
The Water Polo Rules in Part VI of this
Handbook shall apply to Masters Water Polo with the
following exceptions:
MWP5.1
The uniform distance between the
respective goal lines shall be 23.5 meters
minimum, and the uniform width of the field of
play shall be 17 meters minimum.
MWP5.2
WP13 time standards shall apply except
that the duration of the Masters games shall be four
periods of five minutes each actual play.
MWP5.3
In any game, each team shall be entitled
to two timeouts of one minute duration. A timeout
may be called at any time by any player or coach
whose team has control of the ball. Such a request
may be signaled by calling "timeout" and/or by
signaling with hands forming a "T". A timeout may
not be called prior to a penalty throw. When a
timeout is called, the shot clock is not reset. The
team calling a timeout resumes play with a goal
throw.
FINA FACILITIES RULES (see WP1.5)
FR 7.2
Field of play. The distance between the
respective goal lines shall be 30.0 meters. The width of
the field of play shall be 20.0 meters. The depth of the
water shall be nowhere less than 1.8 meters, preferably
2.0 meters.
FR 7.3
The water temperature shall not be less than
26°±1° Centigrade.
FR 7.4
The light intensity shall not be less than 600
lux.
FR 7.5
Exception from FR 7.2 may be allowed on the
discretion of the federation controlling the match.
FR 8.3
The light intensity shall not be less than 1500
lux.
Revised – November 8, 2005
24
FINA TIE BREAK SYSTEM
BL6.4.1.2.1
If two teams shall have equal points,
further classification shall be established as follows:
BL6.4.1.2.1.1
The team winning the game between
the two teams shall be placed higher.
BL6.4.1.2.1.2
If the game between the two teams
resulted in a tie, a further classification shall be
established based on their results against the other
teams in order of their ranking; first based upon
goal difference, and next, based on goals scored.
The comparison shall be made first, compared to
the highest team, and then, if still tied to the next
highest team, and so on.
BL6.4.1.2.1.3
If they are still tied, the tie shall be
resolved by each team shooting five penalty shots
at its opponent's goal in alternate succession. The
first team shall take its first penalty shot and then
the other team shall take its first penalty shot, etc.
If a tie shall exist after that procedure, each team
shall then take alternate shots until one team scores
and the other misses. Different members of the
team must shoot each shot. The procedure shall be
conducted following the final game of that round
or at the first practical opportunity.
BL6.4.1.2.2
If three of more teams shall have equal
points, further classification shall be established as
follows:
BL6.4.1.2.2.1
Any time during the application of
this BL6.4.1.2.2, when the number of the then tied
teams is reduced to two BL6.4.1.2.1.1, BL
6.4.1.2.1.2 and BL6.4.1.2.1.3 shall be followed.
BL 6.4.1.2.2.2
The results among the tied teams
shall determine the placing. The comparison shall
be made upon first, the points of the games among
them, next the goal difference, and next, based
upon goals scored.
BL 6.4.1.2.2.3
If more than two teams are then still
tied, a further classification shall be established
based on their results against the other teams in
order of their ranking; difference, and next, based
upon goals scored. The comparison shall be made
first, compared to the highest team, and then, if still
tied, to the next highest team, and so on.
BL 6.4.1.2.2.4
If they are still tied, the tie shall be
resolved by each team shooting five penalty shots
at its opponent's goal in alternate succession. The
first team shall take its first penalty shot and then
the other team shall take its first penalty shot, etc.
If a tie shall exist after that procedure, each team
shall then take alternate shots until one team misses
and the other(s) score. Different members of the
team must shoot each shot. The procedure shall be
conducted following the final game of that round
or at the first practical opportunity.
BL 6.4.1.2.3
If a team forfeits a match, or is
disqualified for one or more matches, the match or
matches shall be awarded to the opponent with the
goal score of 5–0.