Dry-Land Water Polo on Mats

Dry-land water polo on a 'pool' made of mats where everyone moves on their knees or on hands and knees, passing and shooting a foam ball at small goals. Students practice throwing, passing and cooperation with low impact.

How to play

1. Cover an area of about 30×25 ft with tightly packed mats and set a small goal or two cones at each end; form teams of 4 in pinnies (3 min).
2. Explain that nobody stands up: players move on their knees or on hands and knees and pass the ball with one or two hands (2 min).
3. Lead-up drill: kneeling partner passes from 10 ft and shots on an empty goal, 2 minutes each (4 min).
4. 4v4 games of 4 minutes, with one goalie per team who may sit in their crease; each goal = 1 point (12 min).
5. The ball can only be won by intercepting passes or when an opponent drops it; if anyone stands up or makes contact, the other team gets a free throw (part of game time).
6. Waiting teams keep score and watch for anyone standing; rotate after every game (4 min).

Rules

• Nobody stands up inside the pool.
• No contact: no ripping the ball out of hands and no pushing.
• Hold the ball for 5 seconds max.
• If the mats separate, stop play and push them back together before continuing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student can move while seated and play as goalie or as a passer in their own zone.
• Visual impairment: use a brightly colored or bell ball and mark the goal with a sound.
• Fitness level: shorten games to 3 minutes and allow free substitutions from the sideline.

Learning goals

• Make accurate passes and shots from low positions.
• Work with teammates to move the ball toward the goal.
• Follow the no-contact and movement rules.

Equipment for a class of 25

• mats: 16
• foam balls: 2
• pinnies: 13
• cones or small goals: 4

Teacher tip

Ask for knee pads or long pants if the mats are rough. This is a great rainy-day option because it fits in a large classroom or a small gym.

More main activities for Middle School