The Real History Behind Hockey’s Wild Journey

Most people think hockey means ice and sticks, but there’s way more under the surface—literally. Who knew that one of the world’s coolest sports also happens underwater? Here, at Hockey World, we break down hockey’s story, packed with surprises, bold ideas, and a few legendary mysteries.

Underwater hockey, also called Octopush, kicked off in the 1950s in England. Picture swimming pools, puck-pushing underwater, and players holding their breath while playing. It’s nothing like what most folks imagine when they hear “hockey”. Yet, in just a few decades, this sport exploded worldwide, especially in places like South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Each country brought its own flavor to the pool, mixing local talent with smart strategies.

But why did people start playing hockey underwater in the first place? It’s a funny story. Swimmers wanted something to spice up their winter training. The answer was simple: keep fit and have fun. What started as an offbeat swim club game quickly became an international sensation, with world championships and devoted fan bases.

You can’t talk about hockey history without mentioning the risky adventures and record-setting moments. Take South Africa, for example—they’ve hosted major tournaments and produced world-class players, shaking up the international rankings. Crowds turn up for local matches, kids dream of national jerseys, and players break barriers every season.

Sometimes, history gets tangled with mystery. There are those unforgettable discoveries, like the recent find on Mount Everest that got the mountaineering crowd buzzing—with a connection right back to real-life adventure seekers, not so different from hockey’s pioneers. Each sport has its legends and unanswered questions. In underwater hockey, experts still argue about the “best” playing styles, who first scored from halfway across the pool, or which South African team made history at the world stage.

Every chapter of this sport’s story is packed with effort, out-of-the-box thinking, and a community that loves the game, no matter the challenges. The rules have changed a bit, gear has gotten better, and training is smarter now, but the passion is as strong as ever.

So, whether you’re new to underwater hockey, a die-hard fan, or just want a crazy sports trivia story to share, this history page is for you. We’ll bring you the best stories, legends, and behind-the-scenes tales from the pools and beyond. Keep coming back for all the turning points, player stories, and breakthroughs that make hockey—especially underwater hockey—a sport worth following.