While underwater hockey may have been played since 1954 (when it was known as ‘Octo-push’), it remains a little-understood, but highly competitive sport with popularity around the world.
Originally developed by the Royal Navy to keep divers fit during cold winter months, the sport has taken off in the South West according to Margaret River Underwater Hockey Club (MRUHC) spokesperson PJ McGovern.
“In July we’ll be celebrating 15 years since the club was established, and we have a long history of producing champion players from a number of age groups,” Mr McGovern said.
“Over the last few years we have had a very strong junior representation at state and national level, with three junior girls, all of whom started playing in our club, playing for the Australian U19 team at the 2017 World Age Group Championships to be held in Tasmania.”
The national call-up is not a first for players Lilly Ladd-McGovern, Natalie Iredale and Emma Horak.
Under the enthusiastic guidance of coach, Chris Wenman, the trio represented Australia at the 2015 World Age Group Championships in Castellon, Spain.
Local lad Lochie Pendlebury, who is a passionate young spearfisherman, also competed in the 2015 competition in the U19 Men’s division.
Ladd-McGovern, Iredale and Horak also competed against NZ in the ‘Trans-Tasman’ – a biannual competition against our international neighbours, while clubmate James Iredale represented Australia at last year’s Trans-Tasman in the U19 Men’s division.
Mr McGovern said the club was keen to scout new recruits to join the exciting sport, which is enjoyed during even the coldest winter weather thanks to the Margaret River Rec Centre heated pool.
“We invite all members from the community who have a passion for water sports, or just want to become more confident in and underwater, to come down to the pool on any of our game nights for an introductory game,” he said.
”There are always keen club members who arrive early to show you the basics before diving right into your first game.”
A four-week UWH Starters program will begin in mid-August, for those who wish to learn to play with other beginners to the sport.
“It’s not just open slather though – experienced players will be on hand to offer guidance and coaching to help you get proficient at the basics and really build your confidence before throwing you in the deep end!”
Mr McGovern said the sport was ideal for developing and maintaining fitness as well as being a great social network.
“Anyone involved with other sporting clubs will know that to be successful and long-lived, you need keen members who are willing to put a little time and effort into their club.
“MRUHC is testament to this, quietly gaining momentum and producing world-class players in its wake.
“So come on down, meet new like-minded crew, shake the winter blues and improve your health with the most unusual, addictive sport out there.”
Margaret River Underwater Hockey Club will be hosting its annual tournament, The Margaret River Rumble, on August 5 and 6, with seniors playing on Saturday August 5 between 9am-3pm, and Juniors to follow on Sunday morning.
Teams will be made up on the day and are stacked evenly with players of all abilities.
The four week Starters course will begin on August 18.
For more info on the MRUHC call 0404 046 059 or visit facebook.com/MargaretRiverUnderwaterHockeyClub/
Weekly session times are as follows:
- Monday (Mixed) 6pm – 7.15pm
- Wednesday (Ladies only) 6pm – 7pm / (Mixed) 7pm – 8.15pm
- Friday (Juniors) 5pm – 6pm / (Mixed) 6pm – 6.45pm
