water polo canada officials training and certification program · 1. coordinate the officials...

WATER POLO

CANADA

OFFICIALS TRAINING

AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

September 2008

EDITION

THIS HANDBOOK BELONGS TO

NAME:

ADDRESS:

PHONE (H):

(C):

FAX:

E-MAIL:

Or contact:

Water Polo Canada

Phone: (613) 748-5682

Fax: (613) 748-5777

Web site: www.waterpolo.ca

http://www.waterpolo.ca/

COLORS OF THE MANUAL

OWG: In yellow

ETHIC: In Orange

METHOD OF EVALUATION : In green

ALL FORMS: In white

METHOD OF MOUVEMENT: In pink

FINA RULES BOOK: In blue

OTHER FINA AND WPC RULES: In different blue

OWG

ABBREVIATIONS

CONTENTS

WELCOME

FOREWORD

PROVINCIAL AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

OWG TERMS OF REFERENCE RESPONSIBILITIES AUTHORITY/DECISION MAKING MEETINGS

GUIDELINES FOR CERTIFICATION

EXAMS

MINIMUM AGE FOR CERTIFICATION

COURSE AND EVALUATION

REFEREE’S WORKSHEET

TO UPGRADE

REFEREE “DATABASE”

NATIONAL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

REFEREE CRITERIA FOR NCC

ABBREVIATIONS

WPC: WATER POLO CANADA

OWG: OFFICIAL WORKING GROUP

CWPRA: CANADIAN WATER-POLO REFEREES

ASSOCIATION

ED: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PSO: PROVINCIAL SPORT ORGANIZATION

CWG: COACH WORKING GROUP

OTCP: OFFICIALS TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION

PROGRAM

RIC: REFEREE IN CHIEF

ARIC: ASSISTANT REFEREE IN CHIEF

DDD: DOMESTIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

NCC: NATIONAL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

NTC: NATIONAL TEAM COMMITTEE

FINA: FEDERATION INTERNATIONAL DE NATATION

AMATEUR

E: EXCLUSION

N: NO

S: SUBTITUTION

20s: 20 SECOND EXCLUSION

P: PENALTY

CONTENTS

Welcome

Foreword

Provincial and national associations

Official Working Group

OWG representatives

OWG terms of reference

What we expert from a referee

A model official

To develop as a water polo referee

The official’s code of ethics

Guidelines for certification

To upgrade

Referee Database

National Club Championships – Selection/Criteria

Minor fouls

Exclusion fouls

Penalty fouls

Technical errors

Exclusion vs. disqualification vs. brutality

Yellow and red cards

Yellow cards situations

Red cards situations

Evaluations process

Method of evaluation Difficulty of the game

Definition of the 8 evaluation criteria

Referee evaluation forms

Worksheet

Minor official worksheet

Regional referee worksheet

Provincial referee worksheet

National C referee worksheet

National B referee worksheet

National A referee worksheet

Form

Application form

Personal log

Practical log

Major fouls form

Acetates movements on the deck

FINA rules

WELCOME

Water Polo Canada and the Official Working Group are

excited that you are interested in officiating. We hope that

you will discover the enjoyment of refereeing in the years

to come.

Good luck and enjoy your experience.

FOREWORD

The Canadian Water Polo Referee Association (CWPRA) was

founded in 1972 following the announcement that Montreal

would host the 1976 Olympic Games. Water Polo Canada

(WPC) had to develop more officials at a higher level in

preparation.

The CWPRA was an independently functioning body with its

own authority and areas of responsibility and Roy Gunell was

the first president of the Referees’ association.

The goals were to develop and evaluate referees, keep a list of

referees and select referees for National Championships and

international tournaments.

In 1979, the CWPRA changed its identity and became the

National Officials Committee but was not represented on the

WPC Board with the abolition of the vice-president (officials)

position.

Jacques Marsolais wrote the first training and certification

program in 1978 but it was not enforced. It was only in 1990

that Jacques Marsolais was again approached by Michel

Langelier (WPC’s Programs Director) to write the first

handbook for the training and evaluation of referees and the

evaluator’s guide. After many meetings, the documents were

finished and the program was put into operation in 1991.

In 1999, Heather Kaulbach (WPC’s Director of Operations)

approached Jacques Marsolais and Paul-David Bernard to

update the official’s program. The OWG also participated in

revising their work to present this handbook.

The goals of this update are to have a better and user friendly

format for the referee’s handbook and to standardize throughout

Canada the course delivery and the evaluation and upgrading

procedures.

In 2003, WPC confirmed the change of the name of the

National Officials Committee to the Officials Working Group.

PROVINCIAL AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

BCWPA Annie Vorpe 227-3820 Cessna Drive Ph.: (604) 737-3148

Richmond, British Columbia Fax: (604) 738-7175

V7B 0A2 E-mail: [email protected]

www.bcwaterpolo.com

AWPA Dayna Christmas

2225 Macleod Trail South, box 54 Ph.: (403) 289-4426

Calgary, Alberta Fax: (403) 244-4734 T2G 5B6

E-mail: [email protected] www.albertawaterpolo.ca

WPS

Jymmi Kaye Demchuk

1860 Lorne Street Ph.: (306) 780-9260

Regina, Saskatchewan Fax: (306) 780-9467

S4P 2L7 E-mail: [email protected]

www.wpsask.ca

MWPA Allison Gervais

304-200 Main Street Ph.: (204) 925-5777

Winnipeg, Manitoba Fax: (204) 925-5792 R3C 4M2

E-mail: [email protected]

www.mabawaterpolo.com

OWP Ross Macdonald

105-1185 Eglington Ave. Ph.: (416) 426-7028 North York, Ontario Fax: (416) 426-7356

M3C 3C6


www.ontariowaterpolo.ca

FWPQ Jean Thomas 4545 ave Pierre-De Coubertin Ph.: (514) 252-3098

C.P. 1000, Succ. M Fax: (514) 254-1069

Montréal, Québec H1V 3R2


www.waterpolo-quebec.qc.ca

Nfld Carl Burt

Provincial liaison E-mail: [email protected]

WPC Water Polo Canada 12-1010 Polytek Street Ph.: (613) 748-5682

Gloucester, Ontario Fax: (613) 748-5777

K1J 9H9 Jefrey Lindell


Web site: www.waterpolo.ca

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.bcwaterpolo.com/


http://www.albertawaterpolo.ca/


http://www.wpsask.ca/


http://www.mabawaterpolo.com/


http://www.ontariowaterpolo.ca/


http://www.waterpolo-quebec.qc.ca/



OFFICIAL WORKING GROUP

REPRESENTATIVES (2007-2008)

BCWPA Rick Valouche


AWPA Mike Dykman


WPS Lily Olson


MWPA Jeff Brooks

Email: [email protected]

OWPA Dorel Terpenka


FWPQ Martin Murray


Newfoundland Carl Burt


Honorary Roy Gunell

Members E-mail: [email protected]

Jacques Marsolais











OFFICIAL WORKING GROUP (OWG)

- TERMS OF REFERENCE -

Mandate: To train, recruit, develop, and retain referees and minor officials in Canada. Composition:

1. One representative* from each of the member provinces

2. Operations Council Chair (ex-officio) 3. NTC International Referee rep (ex-officio) 4. Honorary Members ex-officio (Roy Gunell and

Jacques Marsolais) are appointed as historians and technical experts in the officiating of the sport of water polo.

5. Domestic Development Director

* (Prefer that the PSO names a minimum “active” Provincial Level Referee, with at least 3 years experience and who has attended a National Championship as a referee at the Youth to Senior level.)

Appointment:

1. Representatives elected/appointed by their respective Provincial Associations (PSO)

2. The OWG Chair will be selected amongst themselves. (Must be active OWG member for at least 1 year)

3. The terms of the respective Provincial OWG reps will be two (2) year appointments and will be confirm by the PSO in September as follows:

Even years: BC, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Newfoundland Odd years: Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, Nova-Scotia and

New-Brunswick

Responsibilities:

The referees in Canada are in the best position to deal with officiating in Canada, with the DDD as the link to WPC; the OWG will develop, implement, monitor and evaluate all aspects of officiating in Canada.

The WPC DDD will work with all the members to ensure that the mandate of the OWG is met.

This committee shall be responsible for all areas of officiating within Canada.

1. Coordinate the Officials Training and Certification Program (OTCP)

2. Review and update the referee log book 3. Review and update the evaluation/upgrade procedures 4. Select the Referees and Evaluators who are to attend all

National Club Championships (NCC) 5. Evaluate referee performances at all NCCs 6. Standardize rule interpretations for all levels of play 7. All other duties related to officials development and

training in Canada 8. Update the referee database on a as needed basis 9. Recommend a list of National A referees to be

considered for all International lists. 10. Nominate his/her delegate for the “NTC”. 11. To organise National Referee’s Courses including

refresher clinics

Authority/Decision Making:

The Chair and the working group will be accountable to the WPC ED

Meetings: 1. Annual referee selection conference call Post National

Club Championship entry dead line 2. Two other conference calls per year 3. Meet at annual Growth & Leadership Summit 4. Informally at each National Club Championship (or

Major Invitational)

GUIDELINES FOR CERTIFICATION

To be completed in this order.

Course Overview Exam Practical Upgrade Ratify

Minor

official

6 hr

in class, and 2 hr

in pool

Minor official log book

of WPC, FINA rules,

during

course

10

supervised games

rotation

of duties

PSO

Reg.

Referee

16 hrs

in class

and 8 hr

in pool

Minor off. and

referee log book ,

FINA rules, video session,

ref. movement,

code of ethics course,

during

course

60 games

or training

3

successful

evaluation

PSO

Prov.

Referee

16 hrs

in class

and 8 hr

in pool

Minor off. log book,

Referee log book ,

FINA rules and interpretations,

video session,

ref. movement, code of ethics course,

during

course

60 more

game or

training

3

successful

evaluation

PSO

Nat.

Referee

C

16 hrs

in class and

8 hr

in pool

Minor off. log book,

Referee log book , FINA rules and

interpretations,

video session, ref. movement,


during

course

60 more

game or training

3

successful evaluation

OWG

Nat.

Referee

B

16 hrs

in class and

8 hr

in pool

Refresher National

clinic Referee log book ,

FINA rules and

interpretations,

video session,

ref. movement,


during

course

Exercise

60 more

game or training

3

successful evaluation

OWG

Nat.

Referee

A

16 hrs

in class

and 8 hr

in pool

Refresher National

clinic

Referee log book , FINA rules and

interpretations,

video session, ref. movement,


during

course

Exercise

60 more

game or

training

3

successful

evaluation

OWG

Int’l

Referee

16 hrs in class

and

8 hr in pool

Int’l Symposium

at FINA

events

Int’l ref

exam

Int’l Assignme

nt

As per FINA

FINA

EXAMS

If the referee doesn’t pass the exam, the referee must wait

minimum one month for passing a second exam, during water

polo event. (The date of the first exam)

If the referee doesn’t pass the second exam, the referee must

repeat the course and the exam.

MINIMUM AGE FOR CERTIFICATION

Regional - 14

Provincial - 16

National C - 18

National B - 20

National A - 22

COURSE AND EVALUATION

Only a course conductor certified by OWG can give a referee’s course

and exam.

Only an evaluator certified by OWG can do a referee’s evaluation.

REFEREE’S WORKSHEET

Once a year, referees must send a copy of their Referee’s

worksheet to the Provincial Association. The OWG rep

will verify them.

Prior to the fall OWG call; the referee must inform his/her

provincial OWG rep. if his/her situation must be updated.

It is the referees’ responsibility to send his worksheet to

his PSO, to be recognised for the OWG conference call.

TO UPGRADE

1. Following the required number of games officiated; you

are to ask the Referee in Chief of a tournament for

assignments that are eligible for upgrading.

2. A qualified evaluator must be present and asked to

evaluate games.

3. Following the game, the evaluator and candidate must

discuss events that happened during the game, and

constructive criticism must be given to assist the candidate

in the future.

4. Each referee candidate must successfully complete 3

eligible games to be considered, by a minimum of two

different evaluators, for upgrading. (See Guidelines for

certification)

5. The candidate is to inform the Provincial Office of any

successful evaluations and upgrade recommendations.

(See Worksheet forms)

6. The Provincial Office (or OWG representative) must

send a copy of the approved application forms back to the

referee.

A successful evaluation is dependent on the following:

- Level of difficulty of the game

- Level of performance as determined by the

evaluator.

(See Definitions for evaluation)

Upgrades to provincial level are to be submitted to

Provincial Office.

Upgrades to national level are to be submitted to

Provincial Office that will in turn inform the OWG.

To upgrade to the national level, a participant

(player or coach) must have ended their playing or

coaching career in national or international

tournaments.

To upgrade to international level, the referee must:

o Apply to OWG

o Have been active at National level

o Have taken course conductor and evaluator

courses

o Have been active on the domestic side with

the National Teams

o Be willing to act as Referee In Chief or

Assistant RIC at National Club

Championships- process under review

To upgrade to FINA level, the referee must be

appointed by Water Polo Canada via the

International Referee Liaison of WPC.

7. All evaluations to declare candidates as officially

upgraded must be done at the appropriate National

Championships.

Process:

During the post National Club Championship conference

call, the OWG determines who the prospects for

evaluations and upgrades are. Referees must ask their

OWG Rep. for evaluations and upgrade chances prior to

this call.

REFEREE “DATABASE”

A list of all Provincial, National and International officials

will be developed and maintained by the OWG and used

to assist the assignment process for National Club

Championships.

The national referee database is updated, twice a year. (At

last post National Club Championship)

Minor and regional officials are the responsibility of the

PSO and OWG provincial rep.

NATIONAL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Assignments to National Club Championships are made

during the OWG post National Club Championship

conference call. All cases, the *Referee in Chief will be a

current International listed official where possible.

The *Assistant Referee in Chief will be a current

International or a minimum National A ranked official

where possible.

These two individuals are expected to evaluate referees

and to oversee the administration of the officiating at the

National Club Championships. Within 15 days of the

conclusion of the National Club Championships, the

Referee in Chief will provide a written summary

evaluation of each referee at the tournament to the OWG

and WPC.

*Process under review

REFEREE CRITERIA FOR NATIONAL CLUB

CHAMPIONSHIPS

To get selected, a referee must be active.

Active is: 20 games/training and 1 provincial tournament during the

same year. (September to August)

The games at National Club Championships and the International

Competitions are excluded from statistics.

16U Boys/Girls

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B

National C

Provincial

18U Men/Women

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B

National C

Provincial (eligible for

upgrade to National C)

22U Women

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B

National C

Provincial (eligible for

upgrade to National C)

22U Men

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B

National C (eligible for

upgrade to National B)

Senior Women

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B

National C (eligible for

upgrade to National B)

Senior Men

To be eligible:

International

National A

National B (eligible for

upgrade to National A)

N.B.:

No more than a third (1/3) of the total number of referees at each

National may be eligible for upgrade.

A referee can take one year break without losing his privilege but

when he/she is come back, the referee must to restart active referee’s

criteria.

ETHICS

The official’s Code of Ethics (WPC)

The FINA Code of Ethics

A model official

What we expect from an official

To develop as water polo referee.

THE OFFICIAL’S CODE OF ETHICS

WATER POLO CANADA

No tournament or game can run in a satisfying manner

without officials. Good officiating ensures the enjoyment

of the game and protects the players. Alas, officials’

decisions are often sources of frustrations. Their

judgment is rarely unanimously accepted. This task asks

for a high level of competence.

Competent and efficient officials must:

Know the rules and apply them with discretion and

impartiality;

Ensure that players participate in complete safety;

Be consistent in their decisions from beginning to the

end of the game;

Adapt their refereeing so it corresponds to the level of

aptitudes of the players;

Give with courtesy and tact any explanations and/or

interpretations that the coaches or captains need;

Cooperate with their colleagues and have

consideration for the minor officials;

Constantly endeavour to improve themselves and

share their knowledge and experiences with their

colleagues;

Never try to compensate a mistake and continue

refereeing with calm and confidence;

Condemn cheating as contrary to fair play;

Condemn all use of violence by penalizing infractions;

Always have the players’ welfare as the primary

objective;

Assure that their behaviour on the pool deck or outside

are in accordance with the principles of fair play.

THE ETHICS CODE OF THE FINA

WATER POLO REFEREE

All referees are to follow the rules below:

Arrive at the venue where the match is to be played at least

40 minutes before the start of the match in order to procure

the necessary controls.

Not show any particular familiarity with any one of the

teams.

Be composed adequately and dressed appropriately.

In the dressing room they should always maintain a

professional and reserved attitude.

The referee should refer to the Delegate anything which he

observes not correct in the field of play or about security.

Observe punctuality in the schedule for controlling the

teams.

Remain at the swimming pool at least for 30 minutes after

the end of the game.

Abstain from making in public or giving to the television or

the press any statement or comment on the match he has

controlled.

Never speak against his colleagues, or start any argument

about their technical behaviour.

Maintain vis-à-vis the players, officials and coaches a

behaviour which will develop a reciprocal civil but aloof

behaviour, but always remembering that the referee has,

according to the rules, the authority to send away from the

pool deck all those that have nothing to do with the control

of the game and whose presence could disturb or create

problems for the proper and correct conduct of the game.

NEW IN THE FINA MANUAL

Code of conduct

FINA has written a code of conduct in their by-laws.

The premier goal of this code of conduct is that all persons

involved in a FINA event may have an exemplary conduct

and discipline.

The code of conduct covers all infractions committed by

any person involved in those events

The referee

The referee is one the principal actor that has to see to the

good conduct of other actors.

The referee makes sure the rules are followed.

A referee may be sanctioned because of his partiality.

All incidents discrediting or tarnishing the image of

WATER POLO must be sanctioned.

A MODEL OFFICIAL

An official that wants to evolve in the OTCP program must

gain the respect of peers and of the coaches, players and

spectators whether officiating or not.

What we expect to see from an official.

An official must be impartial.

How should this be applied?

As a spectator of game referees should not intervene with game

participants

- No comments to a player, before, during or after a game

- No cheering or encouragement for a team or club

- No comments or gestures of disapproval on any game

decision

- No nervous or irritation gestures on the deck or around the

pool

THE REFEREE:

Should always speak in a polite and calm manner.

Should speak positively.

Should not speak in a manner that would hurt someone

else.

Should inspire confidence, respect, honesty, integrity

and impartiality.

May watch a game but should always remain calm

whether alone or in public.

If the referee is unsure of his reactions in public, the referee

should refrain from watching a game.

WHAT WE EXPECT

FROM AN OFFICIAL

THAT THEY ARE PROFESSIONAL:

Honest: that they applies the same rules in the same

way for both teams

Sincere: that they express himself with truthfulness

Punctual: that they arrives at the pool 30 minutes

before the game

Serious: that they acts with thought and care

Polite: that they respects all participants

Well groomed: that they wears appropriate and clean

clothes

Would have a maximum knowledge of the rules:

The referee must review the rulebook before a tournament.

When a question arises, referee should look it up in the

rulebook and not rely on his memory.

Do not expect to get the right answer from another person.

Even if the person answers in good faith, the answer might not

be the best.

If other people ask questions about the rules, referee should

invite them to look it up with him in the rulebook.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions on rules or game situations, this

is not an indication of ignorance but a way to learn and

improve.

“A REFEREE SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE THEIR

RULEBOOK WITH THEM”.

THE REFEREE:

Should be able to recognize fouls in the water:

Should seek the best position on deck to better see fouls

in the water.

Should be able to distinguish between an ordinary foul,

a major foul and a penalty foul.

Should call what they see.

Should not guess what is happening under water.

Should have the game well in control.

Should let the game evolve by itself; not calling every

minor fouls if they are not detrimental to the progress

of the play.

Should be able to discern between a fake and a real

foul.

Should let the play evolve as per the advantage rule.

Should train

Should train himself by refereeing and also watching

games from the stands to discern fouls.

Should also borrow some videos to visualize fouls.

TO DEVELOP AS A WATER POLO

REFEREE

1. Obtain proper equipment, which is:

(A) A white collared shirt. (B) White pants

(C) White deck shoes (D) Fox 40 whistle

(E) Yellow and red cards (F) Nail clipper

(G) White belt (H) White socks

This is the referee uniform and equipment. Good attire initiates

respect from all participants in the game including fans and

administrators. (A uniform or shirt is sometimes handed out by

the tournament organization. Referees are to wear uniforms

assigned and agreed to by tournament organizers and the

tournament authority).

2. Contact coaches, discuss and attend local club or school

practices.

3. Obtain commentary on your progress from all who have both

more experience and knowledge than you.

4. Request from the club or school, an opportunity to officiate

local games and away events.

5. Attend clinics to help develop expertise.

6. Keep track of your officiating by this Log book.

Following events you have worked get the Referee in Chief to

sign for the games you have completed.

7. Following the required training games/scrimmages, request

an evaluation.

8. Make notes of constructive criticism.

9. Be self-critical. You know best when you have done well

and where you can improve.

10. Take initiative to be evaluated and request appropriate

opportunities to develop your skills.

WATER POLO CANADA

METHOD OF EVALUATION

FOR REFEREES

SEPT 2005

JACQUES MARSOLAIS

FINA WORLD OFFICIAL

MASTER SWIMMING

METHOD OF EVALUATION

The referee being evaluated must supply the evaluator with an

evaluation form.

The evaluator must base the evaluation on the 8 specific areas

of evaluation defined further on.

The evaluator must take notes on the referee’s evaluation form.

The evaluator must score each specific area on the referee’s

evaluation form.

If a referee receives a score of 1 in one of the 8 specific areas, it

signifies he has a serious refereeing problem.


signifies that the error happened occasionally (3-4 times) but

did not disturb bringing the game to a proper conclusion.


signifies that all is well.

If, in one specific area, no action pertaining to this area has

developed, the note must be 3.

The evaluator must add the total at the end of each table.

THE REFEREE EVALUATION FORM

The evaluator must take notes on the referee’s performance using the

referee evaluation form in order to compile all significant clues.

The evaluator must write in the boxes of each one of periods, positive

and negative notes concerning the 8 specific areas.

In the comment box, the evaluator can write:

Observations on the behaviour of the referee, when not

referring.

Recommendations on the result of the refereeing.

Observations on the game progress.

On the game difficulty.

The evaluator must circle around one of the three boxes of the

difficulty of the game. (Easy, Medium, Difficult)

The evaluator must write in the box “Yes or No” if the referee must

have another evaluation.

EX: The easy games didn’t count.

The evaluator must write in the box “Yes or No”

if the evaluator recommends upgrade.

The evaluator must sign the form under.

EVALUATION SCORE

1. 1

st table: the 4 areas have a value of 3 for a total of 12.

2nd

table: the 4 areas have a value of 3 for a total of 12.

2. The evaluator must add the total at the end of both tables.

3. The evaluator must increase the total of both tables by the

difficulty of the game.

4. The evaluator must compare the score with the score needed for a

successful evaluation.

Score needed for a successful evaluation

To upgrade to Score

Provincial 40

National C 44

National B 44 M /60 D

National A 60

International 66

The evaluator must write “YES or NO” for a further evaluation

required or recommend upgraded

The evaluator must sign at the end of the evaluation form.

DEFINITIONS OF A GAME

Difficulty of game

Easy game

Some of the following points are noted:

A large difference in the score

A game without roughness

Few major fouls

A team that does not swim well

Medium game


Physical contact

Quick counter-attacks

Fouls that are difficult to call in the hole, players

that grab or hold underwater

Difficult game


Quick and intensive plays

A lot of major fouls: holding, sinking, pulling back,

striking and impeding

Physical contact including roughness

Disrespect towards an official

Problems with the bench

DEFINITIONS OF THE SPECIFIC AREAS

1. GAME CONTROL

Before starting a game, the two referees must talk to each other to

establish their own expectations and co-operation in play calling.

The referee must modify his/her refereeing and call fouls more

quickly or become stricter if the game gets rougher. When roughness

increases during a game, the referee must adapt quickly and ask

himself/herself if he/she isn’t missing fouls.

The referee must let the players know (with his/her calls) what is

acceptable and what is not.

The referee must find the best spot for viewing fouls in the hole, in the

back of the play and on the sides.

FINA COURSE:

It is a good routine before the game to speak with the captains of

the teams and also to the coaches, taking the opportunity to

remind them of their responsibilities during the match.

Officials who fail to properly supervise a sporting event under their

control, or who fail to enforce the rules of the game, can be held

legally responsible for injuries suffered by players participating in the

event.

Contact between opposite players is permitted.

The referees should allow opposing players to jostle for position …

The concept of "The Advantage & Importance in Attack" is that the

referees must enable the attacking action to continue in the best

manner. They should only intervene when the team loses the ball (or

the possibility to play the ball) because of a foul. The referees are

responsible for encouraging positive play.

If a timeout is requested, the secretary or referee shall immediately

stop the game by whistle.

The referees shall ensure that the teams re-start after a timeout with

the correct number of players.

To stop a match if conditions become hazardous.

BENCH CONTROL

The referee must verify the number of players on the game sheet and

check if it corresponds with the total number of players in the water

and on the bench.

It is permitted for the referee to give a verbal warning.

The referee must use the yellow and red card if the following rules are not respected:

All participants must stay seated on the bench during the game

and between periods, except when changing sides and during

time outs, they cannot to intervene verbally.

Only the head coach is allowed to move up to the 4 meters line

when his team is in attack.

The head coach must be sit at his bench when his team is not in

attack.

The head coach may go past the 4 meters line only to call a

time-out.

FINA COURSE:

The coach can speak and pass instructions to his team but cannot

shout continuously as if he is a radio commentator.

It is forbidden for the coach to move behind the referee and the

referee’s platform.

The coach cannot comment or make gesticulations on the referee’s

during a game.

The coach and the whole team must move in front of the referees

though the corridor reserved for the team.

*** In the FINA course, the definition of the coach is the same as

the head coach in Canada.

2. TIMING OF CALLS

Depending on the difficulty of the game, the referees must discuss the

way to call the fouls before the game.

Not calling every minor foul, if the evolution of play is not

affected.

Calling the fouls rapidly knowing it could be a rough game.

Being very strict starting the game and gradually letting the play

develop, keeping control of the game.

Applying the advantage rule. The referee must know that

sometimes it is necessary not to whistle a minor foul if the player

is able to continue and that his team has an advantage in the foul

not being called or if a goal may occur.

The referee must be able to whistle immediately a foul that he/she

should call, avoiding that a second foul (may be a major) occurs

because of not calling the first foul.

FINA COURSE:

No ordinary foul is to be called unless the ball is within playing

area.

It is a decisive fact in the concept of play to give the advantage to an

action as far as this is developed respecting the rule.

The referee who follows an action of play must at every instant

evaluate what contributes to the correct development of the action and

interfere only when his intervention may positively help the

continuation of the action.

With this concept, the referee should not whistle those ordinary fouls

which are committed on attacking players who are not in the action

and are not in possession of the ball.

All these fouls, if awarded to the attacking team, could lead to the

losing of the advantage and therefore will actually become a

disadvantage to the team. At the same time, immediate intervention

by the referee when the player has received an ordinary foul could

maintain the advantage obtained.

3. MINOR FOULS

The referee must know all minor fouls.

The evaluator must have experience for discerning if the following

points are applicable in a game:

The referee must call a foul if that foul affects the proper

conclusion of the play.

The referee must not whistle excessively. He must let the players

work sometimes.

Offensive fouls must be called when the attacking player

physically takes advantage of a defensive player.

FINA COURSE:

It is up to the referee to intervene when an action of one or another

player does not permit the correct development of play, using the

principle that an action cannot be stopped without the whistle of

referee, but always remembering the advantage rule or when there is

need to change possession.

No ordinary foul is to be called unless the ball is within playing area.

If one referee calls corner and the other calls goal throw, the decision

is corner throw.

4. MAJOR FOULS

The referee must know all the major fouls (exclusion, disqualification,

brutality and penalty shots)

The referee may tolerate a major foul if the player swims towards the

net and may enter the 5 meters zone.

The referee must be able to perceive if the player is able to continue

or if he/she fakes not being able to swim or fakes being pulled back.

This is the only occasion when a referee may refrain from calling

immediately a major foul.

All other cases must be called quickly to avoid retaliation from the

player being fouled.

FINA COURSE:

Referees are reminded to pay special attention whenever there is a

counter attack after a shot at goal is either saved or sent out for a goal

throw.

If a player does not return to his half of the field of play, the referees

shall give a warning to such player. If after a second warning the

player does not take the correct position, the referees shall exclude

him, with substitution, in accordance with WP 21.11 (Disrespect).

However, in this timeout situation, the excluded player's team shall be

permitted to restart the game with seven players.

The exclusion foul rules, especially, HOLDING, SINKING or

PULLING BACK and STRIKING are to be applied equally to the

defending and attacking players whenever these happen anywhere in

the entire field of play.

When an attacking player tries to swim in any lateral position towards

the opposing goal and his action is blocked by a lateral movement

from the defender, this should be considered as HOLDING and an

exclusion foul is to be called.

If there is any doubt in the mind of the referee as to whether to award

a penalty throw or exclusion, the referee shall award the exclusion.

5. POSITION ON DECK

The offensive referee is the referee closer to the net being attacked.

The defensive referee is the referee farther from the net being

attacked.

The referee must always have the absolute control of the game. The

referee must then position himself to be able to see all the players.

See acetates.

When the play goes towards the other referee’s zone, the

defensive referee must remain a minimum of three feet behind the

last defensive player and also controlling the five-meter line.

If the players are far from each others, the referee may go to the

middle of the play but must move away from the side of the pool.

If he/she can’t move away from the side, the referee must stay in

position.

The referees must view their areas of responsibility from a good

angle.(45 degree)

The offensive referee must be in the ideal position to see all

players coming in his zone during an attack. The offensive

referee must never be force to run to keep up with the play, and

must never be behind the offensive play.

The offensive referee must move between the two and five meters

line for to see the fouls at the center.

FINA COURSE:

The referee must be part of the game, feel the game, and concentrate

on each action.

The referee must always position himself in such a way so as not to

leave any player out of his vision in order not to lose the original

action of a player…

The referee should move like a television camera, which has the

advantage to have always under control all the players, and like a

good producer is able to evaluate with great attention every single

intervention.

For example, at the end of the action and therefore at the change of

direction (possession) the same referee should remain in a position to

enable him to pay attention to the new start of action and at the same

time control the bench, now in attack, and to be able to stop the play

immediately if necessary, including at a timeout.

On the platform, the referee must remember how to move to obtain

the maximum view possible to be able to make the best decisions,

which could be determined by how he positions himself.

Referees must check the players for violence risks:

1. After a goal

2. At the opposite end of play

3. At the end of a period

4. During time-outs

5. During an expulsion

6. At the end of the game

7. When teams shake hands

8. At all times, when teams are near each other

FOCUS ON CORRECT AREA

Referees must talk to each other before the game.

The referees must view their areas of responsibility from a good

angle.

Refer to appendices.

It is important that referees respect this policy.

Referees must not look at the same area and whistle the same

foul.

Referees must not face the pool because they will not be able to

see the surroundings and will be inclined to fixate on the ball.

The offensive referee is the only one to whistle goals.

If the defensive referee is sure the other referee has erred, they

should signal the correction.

FINA COURSE:

The referee must speak with his colleague before the match for co-

operation and uniformity sake; this will ensure a better control by

using the same system of refereeing. The uniformity of refereeing

with his colleague is essential for the benefit of the game.

At the end of the game, the referees must continue to keep under their

control the whole field of play in order to have a clear picture of the

situation, in the eventuality that an incident might occur, and to enable

them to verify and report any incident that may occur.

6. COMMUNICATION

(PLAYERS, SIGNALS AND WHISTLES)

The referee must not talk to the players before, during or after the

game.

Only the captains are allowed to talk to the referees.

Signals are explained in appendix B of the FINA handbook.

Signals must be clear and easily visible by the players, coaches and

table.

Water Polo Canada and the PSOs must inform the referees of all

changes of rules and interpretations.

FINA COURSE

Must give each action the correct decision in the shortest time

possible to allow the play to proceed quickly according to the Rules of

Water Polo.

Should not create any animosity with the players with his behaviour,

but should limit his interventions to what are strictly necessary, using

the whistle and signals which are part of his repertoire.

Now that the referee is no longer using flags, he has the advantage to

use both hands for making the necessary signals in order to be able to

show the players and public in the best way possible what he has seen

and decided.

The role of the referee

When communicating a decision the two key elements to include are:

Clear, precise whistle and hand signals;

To immediately indicate which team has been awarded the

free throw, corner throw, goal throw or penalty.

Use clear and correct hand signals when communicating with

players.

Avoid verbal communication wherever possible. This

portrays composure.

Referees, who are composed, cool but firm, are more likely

to win the confidence of the players.

BEHAVIOUR SHOULD BE COURTEOUS

AND RESPECTFUL.

COMMUNICATION

(WITH OFFICIALS)

Both referees must talk to each other before the game and work as a

team.

If the offensive referee whistles the ball out of play behind the

goal line and is not sure if he should award a corner throw or a

goalie throw, he must look at the other referee and at the goal

judge. It is necessary to whistle and stop the play immediately.

It may take a second or two to decide what to call with the help

of the other officials and signal accordingly after the whistle.

If you are the defensive referee and you know which team last

touched the ball, you must signal appropriately (and whistle if

necessary).

The defensive referee, if he/she is on the side of the table, may

approach the table and always looking at the play announces

verbally the major fouls and goals.

After the game, referees must thank the minor officials and

make recommendations, if necessary.

When meeting with the other referee or the table officials, one

referee must take the ball out of the water.

FINA COURSE:

The referee must inform to the official table immediately he decides

upon a sanction.

If one referee calls corner and other calls goal throw decision is corner

throw.

7. APPEARANCE PHYSICAL

The referee must be well groomed.

The referee’s uniform must be perfect.

White polo without pleat with collar or a white shirt well

ironed

White long pan

White shoes

White belt

White socks

Physical appearance must be exemplary:

Have good posture

Do not put hands in pockets

Do not sit on the official table

Do not put hands on hips

Do not lean against anything

Do not cross arms

Walk with shoulders straight

Do not drag feet on deck

If the referee sits on a chair, he/she must sit straight

FINA COURSE:

Role of the referee:

Behaviour and appearance crucial

Dress should be appropriate

Ethics:

Be composed adequately and dressed appropriately

Always maintain a professional and reserved attitude,

especially in the dressing/locker room.

QUALITIES OF THE REFEREE

Appearance:

The referees must, by their walk and facial expressions, show that

they:

are confident

know the rules

have control of themselves

have control of the game

exhibit authority

are respectable

FINACOURSES:

Qualities:

have a high sense of justice,

have immediate correct reaction/s at the right moment,

enjoy a great command of play and its rules,

move according to the flow of play and not to direct it,

only intervene when necessary

be able to decide and forget,

never enter into direct discussion during play,

judge every moment of the match as "unique" and not

debatable.

It is essential that the referee has good relations with the other

participants of the game. From his entry into the swimming pool, the

referee’s behaviour should be unequivocal. This impartially would

avoid any possibility of subjective interpretation on the part of the

public, officials, or players in situations that could create ambiguous

comments.

Responsibilities:

In any eventual discussion, a referee must never behave with any

persons in a provocative manner.

The referee should avoid any attitudes that do not go well with the

figure of a referee, particularly excessive familiarity with the public

before the start and during the intervals of play.

Must follow the flow of play of both teams with absolute impartiality.

8. ETHICS

Punctuality:

The referee must be on deck in uniform 15 minutes before a game.

The referee must tie his/her shoes and adjust his/her attire prior to

getting on deck, this demonstrates:

That the referee has had time to prepare mentally

That the referees have had time to talk before the game

That the referee is prepared in advance

That the referee is early or on time

That the referee is ready for the game

That the game will run appropriately

That the referee is professional

The referees should initiate the game starts on time, by checking nails,

asking the teams to put their caps on, and the coach or captain sign the

game sheet.

FINA COURSE:

Abstain from making in public or giving to the television or the press

any statement or comment on the match he has controlled.

Never speak against his colleagues, or start any argument about their

technical behaviour.

Maintain vis-à-vis the players, officials and coaches a behaviour

which will develop a reciprocal civil but aloof behaviour, but always

remembering that the referee has, according to the rules, the authority

to send away from the pool deck all those that have nothing to do with

the control of the game and whose presence could disturb or create

problems for the proper and correct conduct of the game.

Must follow the flow of play of both teams with absolute impartiality.

In the evaluation and behaviour of the referee, there should never be

matches of high or low value, but all the matches must have the same

value and be treated with the same commitment and determination.

The referee who does not always apply the rules in a consistent way

will make errors that could influence the final result.

It is not wise on the part of the referee, at the end of the match, to start

giving explanations about his refereeing on particular phases of the

game, because such behaviour could well generate ulterior discussions

and tensions.

It is essential that the referee has good relations with the other

participants of the game. From his entry into the swimming pool, the

referee’s behaviour should be unequivocal. This impartially would

avoid any possibility of subjective interpretation on the part of the

public, officials, or players in situations that could create ambiguous

comments.

It is a good routine before the game to speak with the captains of the

teams and also to the coaches, taking the opportunity to remind them

of their responsibilities during the match.

From the time that the referee officially starts controlling the players,

his behaviour must be correct, courteous and decisive. He should not

at any time be over-familiar with the players or team officials.

In any eventual discussion, a referee must never behave with any

persons in a provocative manner.

One must be always very honest with oneself and ready to be self

critical, if necessary, but also acknowledge what has been done well.

A referee must possess the qualities necessary to handle the stresses

associated with refereeing. If refereeing causes anxiety, the possibility

of officiating errors is increased. In some cases, the personal goals of

the referee may be in conflict with the goals of the participants.

In conclusion a referee must be the best image of what we would like

to represent and if in his refereeing he does not respect these

conditions, he will surely not render a good service to the sport.

BEHAVIOUR SHOULD BE COURTEOUS

AND RESPECTFUL.

A referee must desire to be an effective referee. He must desire to

serve the sport, with a dedicated sense of purpose.

A bad example is when a referee is present at a match as a spectator

(or even as a supporter) and starts to openly criticise the refereeing of

his colleagues, and absolutely puts them in a bad light.

ALL FORMS

Course registration form

Minor Official Worksheet

Regional Referee Worksheet

Provincial Referee Worksheet

National Referee Worksheet

Referee’s personal journal

Practical Log

Evaluation Form

COURSE REGISTRATION FORM

OFFICIALS

LEVEL:

Location:

Date(s):

Course conductor:

Participant:

NAME:

FIRST NAME:

ADDRESS:

CITY:

PROV.:

POSTAL CODE:

TELEPHONE: (______)

DATE OF BIRTH:

CV: on back

WATER POLO CANADA

Major fouls / Fautes majeures

Date Time/Heure

Match no

White / Blanc (W) : Blue / Bleu (B) :

No 1 2 3 No 1 2 3

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

6 6

7 7

8 8

9 9

10 10

11 11

12 12

13 13

Minor official worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location

Date

Exam Score

Instructor

Signature of Instructor

Provincial Association

NOC Representative

Signature of NOC Representative (Date)

Regional Referee worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location

Date

Exam Score

Instructor



NOC Representative


Provincial Referee worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location

Date

Exam Score

Instructor



*Practical log

*Evaluations

NOC Representative


*Copy of practical log and successful evaluations must be

submitted with application to the provincial office.

National “C” Referee Worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location:

Date:

Exam Score:

Instructor:

Signature of Instructor:


*Practical log : games/trainings

Evaluations

* 1: A: / B: / total: / sign.eval.:



Signature of PSO Representative (Date):

Water Polo Canada

Signature of WPC Representative (Date)


submitted with application to the provincial office

National “B” Referee Worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location:

Date:

Exam Score:

Instructor:




Evaluations





Water Polo Canada




National “A” Referee Worksheet

Name

Address

Clinic Information

Location:

Date:

Exam Score:

Instructor:




Evaluations





Water Polo Canada




PERSONAL LOGBOOK

Event:

Category:

Date:

Location:

Match no:

Other referee:

TEAMS

WHITE (W) BLUE (B)

Name: Name:

Score: Score:

Comments:

Practical experience logbook

NAME ___________________

Have the tournament supervisor sign to indicate your refereeing activities.

DATE DD/MM/YY

EVENT LEVEL & CATEGORY

LOCATION NUMBER OF GAMES

SUPERVISOR

The supervisor is the tournament director or referee-in-chief or coach in a scrimmage.

METHOD OF MOVEMENT (See on Excel Program)

MOVEMENT ON DECK

POSITION ON DECK

MOVEMENT ON DECK

ACETATES Legend

REFEREE

WHITE TEAM

DARK TEAM

DIRECTION OF PLAY

FIELD OF VISION

CHANGE OF

DIRECTION

BALL

POSITION ON DECK

OTHERS RULES

FINA

AND

WATER POLO CANADA

MINOR FOULS LIST

EXCLUSION FOULS LIST

PENALTY FOULS LIST

TECHNICAL ERRORS

EXCLUSION VS DISQUALIFICATION VS BRUTALITY

YELLOW AND RED CARDS FINA RULES

YELLOW CARDS SITUATIONS

RED CARDS SITUATIONS

FINA RULES 2005-2009 APPLICATIONS

REFEREES COURS IN ARGENTINA

FINA BY-LAWS 2005-2009 CLASSIFICATION

MINOR FOULS LIST

WP20.2 To advance beyond the goal line at the start of a period

before the referee’s signal

WP20.3 To assist a player (physically)

WP20.4 To hold or to push off the goal or sides of the pool

WP20.5 To stand, walk, jump from the floor of the pool

WP20.6 To take or hold the entire ball underwater

WP20.7 To strike the ball with a clenched fist

WP20.8 To play or touch the ball with two hands at the same time

WP20.9 To impede or prevent the free movement of an opponent

WP20.10 To push or push off from an opponent who is not holding

the ball

WP20.11 For a player of the team in possession of the ball to impede,

to push or push off an opponent before the ball in play

WP20.12 To be within two meters of the opponents’ net except when

behind the line of the ball

WP20.13 To take a penalty throw other than in the prescribed manner

WP20.14 To delay unduly when taking a free, goal or corner throw

WP20.15 For a goalkeeper, to go or touch the ball beyond the half-

distance line

WP20.16 To send the ball out of the field of play

WP20.17 For a team, to retain possession of the ball for more than 35

seconds without shooting at the net

WP20.18 To waste time

WP12.3 For a coach of the team in possession of the ball request a

third or additional timeout during a regular game (not in overtime)

EXCLUSION FOULS LIST

WP 21.4 To leave the water during play without permission. E

WP 21.5 To interfere with the taking of a free, goal or corner throw.

E

WP 21.6 To splash in the face of an opponent intentionally. E

WP 21.7 To hold, sink or pull back an opponent who is not holding

the ball. E

WP 21.8 To kick or strike an opponent intentionally. E

WP 21.9 To be guilty of misconduct. E S

WP 21.10 To commit an act of brutality. E N S

WP 21.11 To show disrespect to a referee or officials. E S

WP 21.12 For a player of a team not in possession of the ball, to

commit any of the following offences before a free, goal,

corner or penalty throw or for a player of either team to

commit any offences before a neutral throw. E, E S or

E N S

WP 21.13 For a player of each team, to commit any of the following

offences simultaneously during a death time. E, E S or

E N S

WP 21.14 For a player of a team in possession of the ball, to commit

any of the following major fouls in a death time. E, E S

or E N S

WP 21.15 To enter the field of play improperly not in the last minute.

E , E S or E N S

WP 21.16 To interfere with a penalty throw. E S+20s

WP 21.17 For the defending goalkeeper to fail to take up his correct

position on the goal line at the taking of penalty throw

after having been ordered by the referee. E

WP 21.18 When a player of each team commits an exclusion foul or

a penalty simultaneously during actual play. E

PENALTY FOULS LIST WP 21.20 If an excluded player intentionally interferes with the play.

P

WP 21.20 If the excluded player does not commence leaving the field

of play almost immediately. P

WP 22.2 For a defending player to commit any foul within the 4

meter area but for which a goal would probably have

resulted. P

WP 22.3 For a defending player within the 4 meter area to kick,

strike an opponent or to commit an act of brutality. P N S

WP 22.4 For an excluded player to interfere intentionally with play.

P

WP 22.5 For a goalkeeper or any other defending player to pull over

the goal with the object of preventing a goal. P, S+20s

WP 22.6 For an excluded player to re-enter or a substitute to enter the

field of play improperly to prevent a goal. P, E for …

seconds

WP 22.7 For an excluded player to re-enter or a substitute to enter the

field of play improperly during the last minute of the

game or the last minute of the second period of any extra

time. P, S+20s

WP 22.8 To enter the field of play illegally. P, S or N S

WP 22.8 If an exclude player and a substitute both enter, the last shall

be penalized. P

WP 22.8 If an exclude player and a substitute both enter

simultaneously, it shall be the substitute who is to be

penalized. P

WP 22.9 For the coach of the team not in possession of the ball to

request a timeout. P

WP 22.10 For the coach of the team not in possession of the ball to

request a timeout. P

WP 22.10 For a team official to take any action to prevent a probable

goal. P and RED CARD

TECHNICAL ERRORS

If there is a technical error (desk official mistake, timing

error, clock malfunction, etc.) the referee must stop the

game at an appropriate time (not necessarily immediately)

and correct the error.

The game may have to restart at the last known time

before the error.

Ex.: A player has three personal fouls and is still playing

because the secretary has forgotten to signal with the red

flag. The game clock should be reset at the end of the

exclusion time or at the time of the man-up goal and the

game restarted from that time. All incidents occurring

after that time must be erased on the game sheet.

EXCLUSION VS DISQUALIFICATION VS BRUTALITY

There are three types of sanctions for overly aggressive play, which

are to be applied equally to the offensive and defensive teams.

1. Exclusions (20 seconds) for Aggressive Play

hand or arm around neck, or head

hand on face or head

hand trying to pull head or cap

kicking or striking a player while trying to get free

making disproportionate movements while trying to get free

striking with elbow while swimming

forceful head butt

2. Game Exclusion with Substitution for Disrespect, Bad

Conduct or Violence

Disrespect: gesture or speech

Foul Language: swearing (may get warning)

Bad Conduct: verbal and/or physical threat(s)

Persistent Foul Play: pulling on cap cords (strings) to loosen

cap; kicking or striking non violently repeatedly

Violence: holding a player cap (cords); striking with the flat

of the hand

Oily Substance During Play

3. Game Exclusion with Substitution for Brutality after 4

minuts

malicious intent : flagrant intention of injuring

kicking or striking with malicious intent

trying to kick or strike with malicious intent

striking with a closed fist

All incidents involving disrespect, bad conduct or violence should

normally be reviewed by the tournament committee (or discipline

committee). If further actions are necessary, additional suspension

may be imposed.

YELLOW AND RED CARDS

FINA Rules

The Yellow card/Red card system has been adopted for the control of

the water polo bench at all FINA rules water polo events.

The issuing (signalling) of the yellow card by the referee is an

"official" warning to the team bench.

That the subsequent issuing (signalling) of the red card by the

referee is the signal that the offender on the team bench must

retire to the public area or to such a designated place as

determined by the event technical committee.

Once the offender receives a red card, he will also receive an

automatic one game suspension (which can be carried from

event to another), with review for possible imposition of

greater sanction depending on the severity of the incident.

It should be noted, that should the actions of the offender

warrant, then the referee might issue (signal) with the red card

without having issued (signalled) with the yellow card, which

in normal circumstances is really an initial warning.

The point to remember about the use of cards is that they are just a

mechanism, a "visible show" for what referees always have had the

power to do. A referee could always exclude any person from the

pool. Accordingly:

1. If the bench is still a problem, identify the offender(s) and

exclude him (them).

2. The offender is the individual, not the representative.

Accordingly you punish neither the captain, nor the coach, if a

player is the offending party. You exclude that party.

RECOMMENDATION TO REFEREES RELATING TO

CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOUR

OF COACHES, OFFICIALS AND PLAYERS

1. The coach can speak and pass instructions to his team, but

cannot shout continuously as if he is a radio commentator.

2. The coach cannot move further than the four (4) metre area.

3. The coach is responsible for the behaviour of all officials

and players on the bench.

4. The coach cannot comment or make any gesticulations on

the refereeing during the game.

5. It is forbidden for the coaches, officials and players to go

on the referee’s platform.

6. It is forbidden for the coach to move behind the referee and

the referee’s platform.

7. The coach and the whole team must move in front of the

referees through the corridor reserved for them.

8. In any case all the persons who are authorised to sit on the

bench, are obliged to stay sitting down and not to intervene

verbally.

in the case where the coach is sanctioned by the issuing

with a yellow card it does not result in a loss of privileges.

in all these cases the referee must sanction all other

persons that do not respect these rules by issuing with a

red card; that it is not possible that a breach of these rules

can be sanctioned by issuing with a yellow card.

9. The referee may issue a red card to a player/s on the bench

for misconduct; that in this situation the player must vacate

the bench.

YELLOW CARDS

Situations

For the head coach only:

a. Advance pass the 4 m line (a verbal and/or a warning

signal before a yellow card)

i. The head coach must stay well away from the

referee when the referee is in his/her zone. The

coach must not impede on the referee’s movement

or vision.

ii. The head coach must be near his bench when his

team have the possession of the ball and stay in

her zone

iii. The head coach doesn’t return near his bench

when his/her team loses possession of the ball.

iv. When the bench is not situated behind the goal

line and outside the sidelines.

b. Comment the referee’s calls (after the calls)

c. Direct the referee’s calls (before the calls)

d. Regarding b and c, if the referee cannot determine who

is committing the infraction from the bench, the head

coach should receive a yellow card (he/she is

responsible for the behaviour of all on the bench)

RED CARD

Situations

For a staff member and/or the players of the team other than the

head coach:

a) Leave the bench

b) Comment on the referee’s calls

c) Direct the referee’s calls

d) Interfere in the play

For a head coach:

a) A third infraction from the (a) yellow card list.

b) A second infraction from the yellow card list. (b,c,d)

For head coach, staff member and players:

a) Throw or kick an object

b) Insult personally a referee or minor official

c) Touch, push or hit a referee or minor official

*** If the bench is still a problem, identify the offender(s) and exclude

him/her with a red card. (Player include)

FINA RULES 2005-2009

REFEREES COURSE IN ARGENTINA

APPLICATIONS

1. WP 21.6 EXCLUSION – WP22.2 PENALTY

If the player attempts to block a shot with two hands

the player shall be punished with a penalty shot when

the defensive player is inside the 5 meter area and

exclusion foul when the defensive player is outside the

5 meter area.

NOTE: defensive player does not have to touch the

ball. He is being punished for intent.

2. WP 22.2 PENALTY

A field player, who replaces and excluded goalkeeper,

must play the position without the privileges of the

goalkeeper. If the player attempts to play with two

hands a penalty throw shall be awarded.

3. WP 10 SECRETARIES

When a player is excluded for brutality the secretary

will signal the substitute to re-enter the field of play

with two flags, one yellow flag and the other flag of

corresponding cap color.

4. WP 17.1 CORNER

A defensive player deflects a pass and sends the ball

out over the goal line the play shall be restarted with a

corner throw. This action is considered as deliberately

sending the ball over the goal line.

5. WP 21.11 NOTE

If a brutality is called during interval time, timeout or

after the goal play will be restarted by the referee

blowing the whistle to start play in the normal manner

and then the penalty throw shall be taken.

6. WP 21.11 NOTE

If a simultaneous brutality is called during interval time

the referee will exclude both players with substitution

after 4 minutes of play. The game shall be restarted in

the normal manner and once one tem gained possession

referees will stop the game and award a penalty throw

to the team that gained possession. The first penalty

shot will be taken which will result in a goal or no goal.

Play will be stopped and the second penalty shot will

be taken by the defensive team which will result in a

goal or no goal. Referees will then award a free throw

on the half distance line to the team that gained

possession.

7. WP 21.11 NOTE

If a simultaneous brutality is called during timeout or

after the goal the referees will exclude both players

with substitution after 4 minutes of play. The first

penalty shot (taken by the team that normally would

have possession) will result in a goal or no goal. Play

will be stopped and the second penalty shot will be

taken (by the opposite team) which will result in a goal

or no goal. The referees will then award a free throw

on the half distance line to the team that normally

would have gained possession after the timeout or after

the goal.

8. WP 21.15

If a defensive player re-enters the field of play

improperly the player is excluded for an additional 20

seconds and a penalty throw is awarded to the attacking

team. However, on the score sheet only one additional

personal foul (marked as E.P) shall be recorded against

the offending player.

9. WP 21.15

If an offensive player re-enters the field of play

improperly the player is excluded for an additional 20

seconds and a free throw is awarded to the opposing

team. On the score sheet an additional personal foul

shall be recorded against the offending player.

10. WP 22.8 Penalty throw

If a team is awarded a penalty throw in the last minute

of the regulation time or the last minute of the second

overtime period a coach may request to maintain the

possession in lieu of taking the penalty throw. The

coach must show the referee immediately by crossing

their arms in front of his chest to signal possession, or

show 5 finders to request a penalty throw.

If a team requests possession, play shall be restarted on

the half distance line or behind with a new possession

clock.

11. WP 16.1 (A)

The ball is sent out of the side of the field of play

following a shot having last been touched by the

defending team. A free throw is awarded to the

defending team. This situation is covered under the

same Rule as a shot having last been touched by a

player of the defending team and the ball going over

the goal line.

12. WP 21.10 NOTE

If a player of a team commits misconduct or any other

offense during the interval between periods, during

timeout or prior to the restart after a goal. The player

shall be excluded from the remainder of the game and

the substitute shall be eligible to re-enter immediately

prior the restart of the game as three situations

considered to be in interval time.

NOTE: If the exclusion is during interval time the

game will restart with a swim ball; after a timeout a

free throw to the team that requested the timeout or

following the goal a free throw to the defending team.

FINA WATER POLO RULES 2005 – 2009 (Changes highlighted in green)

TABLE OF CONTENT

1 Field of Play & Equipment

2 Goals

3 The Ball

4 Caps

5 Teams and Substitutes

6 Officials

7 Referees

8 Goal Judges

9 Timekeepers

10 Secretaries

11 Duration of the Game

12 Timeouts

13 The Start of Play

14 Method of Scoring

15 Restarting after a Goal

16 Goal Throws

17 Corner Throws

18 Neutral Throws

19 Free Throws

20 Ordinary Fouls

21 Exclusion Fouls

22 Penalty Fouls

23 Penalty Throws

24 Personal Fouls

25 Accident, Injury and Illness

Appendix A Instructions for the Use of Two Referees

Appendix B Signals to be Used by Officials

Appendix C Regulations for Disciplinary Actions in Water

Polo at FINA Events

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 metres and not more than 30 metres for

games played by men. The distance between the goal

lines shall be not less than 20 metres and not more than

25 metres for games played by women. The width of the

field of play shall be not less than 10 metres and not

more than 20 metres. The boundary of the field of play

at each end shall be 0.30 metres 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 metres from goal lines

(c) yellow marks - 5 metres from goal lines

The sides of the field of play from the goal line to the 2

metre line shall be marked in red; from the 2 metre line

to the 5 metre line shall be marked in yellow and from

the 5 metre 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 metres 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 metres x

0.20 metres.

WP 2 GOALS

WP 2.1 Two goal posts and a crossbar, rigidly

constructed, rectangular with a dimension of 0.075

metres 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 metres in front of

the ends of the field of play.

WP 2.2 The inner sides of the goal posts shall be 3

metres apart. When the water is 1.50 metres or more in

depth, the underside of the crossbar shall be 0.90 metres

from the water surface. When the water is less than 1.50

metres in depth, the underside of the crossbar shall be

2.40 metres 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 metres 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 metres and not more

than 0.71 metres, and its 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 metres and not

more than 0.67 metres, 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 colour, other than

solid red, as approved by the referees, but also to

contrast with the colour 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 colour 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 metres 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 metres 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 metre 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 offence 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 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:

(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

(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 metre apart and at least one metre 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 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 metres.

[Note. A goal may be scored by a player immediately

shooting from outside 5 metres after the player’s team

has been awarded a free throw for a foul committed

outside 5 metres. 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 metres 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 metre 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

offence 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 metres;

(ii) a free throw awarded outside 5 metres 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 metre 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 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 metre 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 metre area.

WP 17.4 A corner throw taken from the wrong position

or before the players of the attacking team have left the 2

metre 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 metre area shall be taken on the 2 metre

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 metre area, the free throw

shall be taken on the 2 metre line opposite to

where the foul was committed or, if the ball is

outside the 2 metre 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 offence 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 offences (WP 20.2 to WP 20.18), 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 metre

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 offence 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 offence; 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

metre 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 metre 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 “impeding”. 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 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 offence 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 offence is most often

committed near the boundaries of the field of play.]

Figure 7

Figure 8

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 offence 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 metres of the opponents’

goal except when behind the line of the ball. It shall not

be an offence if a player takes the ball into the 2 metre

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 metre

area.

[Note. If the player receiving the pass does not shoot at

goal, the player who passed the ball must immediately

leave the 2 metre 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 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 offences (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 offence 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 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 metre area.

[Note. If a defending player who is outside the 5 metre

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 metre 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 metre 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.

[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 metre 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 offence 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 offence 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 offence

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

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 offences 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 offences 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 offences 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 offence 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 offence 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 offence 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 offence 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 metres 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.

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 offences (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 metre area but for which a goal would

probably have resulted.

[Notes. In addition to other offences preventing a

probable goal, it is an offence 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 metre 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 metre 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 offence.

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

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 metre

line.

WP 23.2 All players shall leave the 5 metre area and

shall be at least two metres 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

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.

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.

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-metre 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 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.

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. OFFENCES BY OFFICIALS 2.1 The sanctions to be imposed for offences 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 offence 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. OFFENCES AGAINST OFFICIALS 3.1 Any offence 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 offence 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 offence is an attempt to commit an offence

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 Offences 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 offence 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 offence under Article

3 may be increased for a second or subsequent offence

by any individual.

Article 4. OFFENCES AGAINST TEAM MEMBERS OR

TEAM OFFICIALS 4.1 For brutality, or any offence 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 offence 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 offence 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 may be increased for a second or subsequent offence

by any individual.

Article 5. OTHER OFFENCES 5.1 For any offence 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

organiser, authority or any other 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 may be increased for such period as the Management

Committee deems appropriate.

Article 6. OFFENCES COMMITTED BY TEAMS 6.1 If more than three members of the same team,

including team officials, commit offences 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

bodyfor 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 offences in 3.1 and 3.5 shall be

imposed by the Management Committeewithin 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 offences 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 Organising

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 Organising 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 Organising

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

Organising body.

7.6 As used in these Regulations "suspension" for

offences other than in 3.1, 3.2, 3.5 and 4.1 shall mean, as

may be specified by the Board of the Organising body,

from competitions or that the individual sanctioned shall

not participate in any or certain activities of FINA, the

recognised 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 recognised

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

offences in the Water Polo Rules and these Regulations

have occurred.

Article 9.

9.1 In imposition of any sanction, the nature of the

offence, the circumstances under which it occurred, the

gravity of the offence, the character of the action and

other consideration that is in harmony with the

objectives of FINA must be taken into account.

Article 10. APPEALS 10.1 An individual sanctioned by the Management

Committee may appeal to the Board of the Organising

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.

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