When people hear about underwater hockey, they often ask, “Is that even a real sport?” The answer is yes! Underwater hockey, also known as Octopush, has a dedicated global following. While it may not be as mainstream as soccer or basketball, it is growing in popularity across the world.
As someone deeply involved in the sports industry, I have seen firsthand how this unique game is gaining traction. From small local clubs to international competitions, underwater hockey has carved out its niche in the sports world. But just how popular is it? Let’s dive into the numbers, expert insights, and real-life stories behind this fascinating sport.
Read also: Who Invented Underwater Hockey? The Untold Story of This Unique Sport
The Global Reach of Underwater Hockey
Underwater hockey is played in over 40 countries and has a strong presence in regions like Europe, North America, Australia, and Asia. According to the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS), which governs the sport internationally, the number of active players has doubled in the past decade.
Countries Where Underwater Hockey is Growing Fast
| Country | Estimated Players | Major Tournaments |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 5,000+ | British Octopush Association Nationals |
| United States | 3,500+ | USA UWH National Championships |
| Australia | 4,000+ | Australian Underwater Hockey Championships |
| France | 2,000+ | French UWH League |
| Canada | 1,500+ | Canadian National Championships |
These numbers might not seem huge compared to soccer or basketball, but for an underwater sport, they are impressive!
Rules: Underwater Hockey Rules: The Ultimate Guide to This Thrilling Sport!
Why Isn’t Underwater Hockey More Mainstream?
Despite its uniqueness, underwater hockey faces challenges in reaching a larger audience:
- Limited Media Coverage – Unlike mainstream sports, it rarely appears on TV or major sports channels.
- Accessibility Issues – Not every city has a swimming pool that supports underwater hockey.
- Lack of Awareness – Many people simply don’t know the sport exists.
- Equipment Requirements – Players need a mask, snorkel, fins, and a specialized stick, which can be a barrier for beginners.
What Experts Say
According to Steve Gillespie, a former world champion, “Underwater hockey is one of the most engaging sports I’ve played, but its growth depends on more exposure and access to facilities.”
The Rise of Underwater Hockey on Social Media
In recent years, social media has played a big role in spreading awareness about the sport. Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok feature hundreds of videos showcasing thrilling underwater battles. Some teams even have live streams of their games!
Trending Hashtags
- #UnderwaterHockey
- #Octopush
- #UWHChampionships
- #WaterSports
Many sports influencers and professional players are also helping promote the sport online, which has increased interest among younger generations.
Competitive Scene: International Tournaments and Events
One of the reasons underwater hockey is growing is the number of international competitions. The CMAS Underwater Hockey World Championship, held every two years, brings together top teams from across the globe.
Other major tournaments include:
- Pan Pacific Championships – Featuring top teams from Asia, Australia, and North America.
- European Underwater Hockey Championships – A high-level competition among European nations.
- Club Championships – Local leagues and club-level tournaments held in various countries.
These events help bring more visibility to the sport and encourage new players to join.
Is Underwater Hockey an Olympic Sport?
As of now, underwater hockey is not an Olympic sport, but many fans and players are pushing for its inclusion. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) requires a sport to have a strong global presence and be governed by a recognized federation.
CMAS is actively working to increase the sport’s visibility and meet Olympic criteria. If successful, we could see underwater hockey in future Olympic Games!
How You Can Get Involved
If you’re interested in trying out underwater hockey, here’s how you can start:
- Find a local club – Search online for underwater hockey clubs near you.
- Attend a beginner session – Many clubs offer free trial sessions.
- Get the right gear – A mask, snorkel, fins, and a stick are essential.
- Join a league – Once you get comfortable, join a local or national league.
Beginner-Friendly Countries
| Country | Best Place to Start |
| United Kingdom | British Octopush Association Clubs |
| USA | USA Underwater Hockey Clubs |
| Australia | Local community pools |
| France | National Underwater Hockey Federation |
| Canada | University & city leagues |
The Future of Underwater Hockey
Underwater hockey is at an exciting stage. While it may not yet be a household name, its popularity is rising steadily. More schools and universities are introducing it as a club sport, which is a key factor in growing any sport’s following.
What needs to happen for underwater hockey to go mainstream?
- Increased funding – More investment in facilities and youth programs.
- Media partnerships – Exposure on major sports networks and streaming services.
- Olympic recognition – A spot in the Olympics could elevate the sport to new heights.
- Youth Development – Encouraging kids to take up the sport from an early age.
Final Thoughts: Will Underwater Hockey Become a Global Sensation?
Underwater hockey may not be mainstream yet, but it’s growing rapidly. With more media exposure, social media influence, and international competitions, the sport has the potential to reach a much larger audience.
As more people discover the thrill of playing and watching underwater hockey, I believe it will continue to expand globally. If you’ve never seen a match, I highly recommend checking one out—you might just become a fan!
So, what do you think? Will underwater hockey become the next big thing in sports? Let’s keep the conversation going!
