How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo?

Have you ever thought about how deep is the pool for water polo? Well, we’ll find the perfect pool depth for this water sport. In this post, you’ll learn the water polo pool dimensions and measurements.

Water polo is a popular sport in the United States and many other countries. Both men’s and women’s teams have competed in the Olympic Games. The women’s team won medals in 2012, 2016, and 2020.

These Olympic winners often jump into the pool and try water polo themselves. But there is a  common question: How deep is the pool for water polo?

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the depth and dimensions of a water polo pool. We’ll also discuss the goals and markings of a water polo pool. 

So, let’s get started!

How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo
How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo

Water polo pool dimensions – According to FINA

A Water Polo Pool is similar to a swimming pool layout in a rectangular shape. The game shares similarities with kiteboarding and wakeboarding because these sports are played on water, like water polo. The water polo pool has two goals that are placed on each end for the water polo game. In a pool, there is a mid-pool line that marks the center. 

Compared to a standard swimming pool, a water polo pool is deeper, usually several feet or meters below the height of a standard player.

According to FINA (World Aquatics) and USA Water Polo, a water polo pool is 25 meters (82 feet) or 30 meters (98.43 feet) long and 20 meters (65.62 feet) wide. Overall, it measures an area of 500-600 square meters of 5382-6458 square feet. And the pool must be at least 1.83 meters (6 feet) deep. 

How deep is the pool for water polo?

The depth of a water polo pool can vary depending on the level of play. For international competitions, the official depth of a water polo pool measures 2 meters (6.6 feet) all over the playing area. 

However, for recreational or local level competitions,  the pool depth usually measures from 1.8 meters (about 5.9 feet) to 2 meters. 

  • Water polo pool depth in meters—2 meters
  • Water polo pool depth in feet—6.6 feet

Water polo pool measurements

How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo
How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo
Key ElementsMeasurements in feetMeasurements in meters
Height6’1.83 m
Width65.62’20 m
Length82’-98.43’25-30 m
Area5382-6458 ft²500-600 m²
2m Line6.56’2 m
5m Line16.4’5 m
Goal Width9.84’3 m

Water polo pool Markings

So, what are the lines in water polo, and what do the lines mean in water polo? Well, there are 3 colored markers on the pool to make a polo course. 

Let’s explain

Goal Line—This line is placed in front of the goal or the cage and connects with the field. This line is important for scoring.

2m Line— This line is placed 2 meters from the goal line—generally, this line is marked with a red cone on the side of the pool. 

5m Line— This line measures 5 meters from the goal line. This line is marked with a yellow cone. 

Mid-Pool Line—This line is placed right in the middle of the field and is usually marked with a white cone. 

On a pool, there are platforms for referees on both sides of the field. These platforms are 1 meter square and stand 70 centimeters above the water level. They provide a good view for the referees to make fair calls during the game.

How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo
How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo

Lines Specifications

Marker ColorLine MarkingsRules
Red2-Meter LineUnless the ball is inside the red marker, offensive players are not allowed inside it.
Yellow5-Meter LineIt marks a significant distance from the goal area.
WhiteMid-Pool LineThis line is used to mark the center of the field.

Goals 

  • According to standard rules, the goals are made of wood, metal, or synthetic materials like plastic.
  • The goalposts are placed equally on both sides of the pool, measuring 0.3 meters in front of the pool’s edges.
  • The distance between the inside edges of the goalposts is 3 meters apart. 
  • The gap between the inside edges of the goalposts is 3 meters.
  • The crossbar measures 0.9 meters above the water when the water is 1.5 meters or deeper. 
  • But if the water is deeper, like 1.5 meters, the bar is higher at 2.4 meters.
  • The bar at the top of the goal is 0.9 meters above the water when the water is 1.5 meters deep.
  • The nets on the goals are firmly attached, measuring 0.3 meters of open space behind the goal line inside the goal.
How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo
How Deep is the Pool For Water Polo

FAQs

For international competitions, the pool for water polo is 1.5 meters deep.

In water polo, players are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool during play. If they do so, it can result in a foul.

Yes, water polo goalies can touch the bottom of the pool while in the goal area. Goalies can use the pool bottom to help maintain their position, jump to block shots and push off for quick movements. However,  this is only permitted within the designated goalkeeper’s area, often marked by a colored cone or other indicators. 

A standard water polo game is typically divided into four periods, each consisting of 8 minutes. The actual gameplay time duration is 32 minutes. 

In water polo, each team consists of 7 players in the water at a time, including one goalkeeper and six field players.

Conclusion

The depth of a water polo pool is a crucial factor in the sport. As discussed, the official depth for international competitions is 2 meters (6.6 feet). We’ve also discussed the specific markings, goals, and field dimensions that ensure an exciting game. With this information, players and spectators can appreciate the sport’s technical aspects and enjoy the action in the pool.

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